The state of the running back position has improved from where it was a few years ago. Players like Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons and Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles are breaking the stigma around drafting running backs in the top 10.
Robinson was impressed by what he saw from the NFL’s top rushers during the divisional round of the playoffs, especially Barkley’s 205-yard performance in the Eagles’ win over the Los Angeles Rams.
Following Sunday’s game, Robinson thanked Barkley on social media for making running backs “look amazing.”
Man Saquon thank you for making us RB’s look amazing. This position is looking great
— Bijan Robinson (@Bijan5Robinson) January 19, 2025
Barkley was not re-signed by the Giants but stayed in the NFC East and signed with the Eagles. New York likely regrets letting Barkley go. The former Penn State star rushed for over 2,000 yards during his first year in Philadelphia.
Robinson made plenty of noise himself this season. The No. 8 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft rushed for 1,456 yards and 14 touchdowns, adding 61 receptions for another 431 receiving yards. Robinson finished third in rushing this season.
Baltimore Ravens RB Derrick Henry continues to dominate in his early 30s and Detroit Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs was electric against the Washington Commanders.
With stars all around, the future of the running back position in the NFL looks the brightest it has in some time.