Before this season, the running back position was suffering a major decline in popularity. Given the physical nature of the sport and the injury risk the position carries, it became less of a priority for teams to focus on running backs. This led Derrick Henry to sign a contract worth less than $10 million annually and the New York Giants to give up on Saquon Barkley.
However, a charge led by those two has led to a mini-renaissance for the position. Throughout the regular season, the two were unbelievably dominant. But they’ve carried over their game-breaking ways to the playoffs as well. After Barkley showed out in the Divisional Round game, fellow RB Bijan Robinson showered him with love.
Bijan Robinson, Saquon Barkley, and the Return of the Running Back
Barkley became the ninth player in league history to tally over 2,000 rushing yards in the regular season. If not for the Philly starters resting in Week 18, he may have broken the all-time record set by Eric Dickerson.
Barkley still has a chance to break the all-time single-season rushing record for regular season and playoffs combined. Given the performance he had in the Divisional Round, it looks like he fully intends to etch his name in history.
In a snowed-in game, Barkley was the difference-maker, as he totaled the fifth-highest rushing mark in NFL playoff history with 205 yards and two touchdowns, both of which were 60+ yard runs. He now stands less than 160 yards away from breaking Terrell Davis’ all-time record of 2,476 rushing yards.
With the passing game suffering mightily due to the natural elements, it came down to the superstar running back to keep the Eagles’ season alive. Thanks to his play this season and the success it has brought Philadelphia and their 14th-ranked offense per Offense+, the running back position is once again gaining prominence.
And it isn’t going unnoticed around the league. Bijan Robinson, just two seasons into his career, has already solidified himself as an elite running back with the Atlanta Falcons. This season, he finished only behind Barkley and Henry with 1,456 rushing yards.
As the future of the position in the league, Robinson was extremely grateful to Barkley and his play. Judging by the contracts dished out to Barkley and Henry; their play could now elevate negotiations for all future RBs in the league, something Robinson clearly understands.
“Man Saquon thank you for making us RB’s look amazing. This position is looking great.”
Man Saquon thank you for making us RB’s look amazing. This position is looking great🔥🙂
— Bijan Robinson (@Bijan5Robinson) January 19, 2025
Over the course of a season, the running back position is back to being a premium around the league, thanks to the performances of Barkley, Robinson, and Henry.
