Fascinating article from a former RB that is now an Economist. In the article, he digs into what the root causes are for the decline in RB pay.
Sorry it’s behind a paywall but here's some AI analysis of the article:
According to one analysis in 2023, pay for running backs and fullbacks since 2011 has increased only 11%. For every other offensive position, total pay has increased at least 90%.
The decline in running back salaries can be attributed to several key factors:
1. **High Injury Rates**: Running backs face a higher risk of injuries, leading to shorter career spans.
2. **Supply and Demand**: There is a larger pool of capable running backs, reducing their market value.
3. **Team Strategies**: Teams prefer investing in younger, cheaper players rather than veteran running backs.
4. **Positional Value**: Other positions, like quarterbacks and wide receivers, are seen as more critical to a team's success.
5. **Economic Trends**: Broader economic trends in the NFL influence how teams allocate their salary caps.
Yes, there are exceptions to the trend of declining running back salaries:
1. **Elite Talent**: Exceptional running backs like **Christian McCaffrey** and **Derrick Henry** still command high salaries due to their unique skills and impact on the game.
2. **Versatility**: Running backs who can also contribute significantly in the passing game or special teams may receive higher compensation.
3. **Team Needs**: Some teams may prioritize a strong running game and invest more in top-tier running backs.
4. **Contract Timing**: Players who negotiate contracts during peak performance periods can secure better deals.
These factors can lead to higher salaries for certain running backs despite the overall trend.
Sorry it’s behind a paywall but here's some AI analysis of the article:
According to one analysis in 2023, pay for running backs and fullbacks since 2011 has increased only 11%. For every other offensive position, total pay has increased at least 90%.
The decline in running back salaries can be attributed to several key factors:
1. **High Injury Rates**: Running backs face a higher risk of injuries, leading to shorter career spans.
2. **Supply and Demand**: There is a larger pool of capable running backs, reducing their market value.
3. **Team Strategies**: Teams prefer investing in younger, cheaper players rather than veteran running backs.
4. **Positional Value**: Other positions, like quarterbacks and wide receivers, are seen as more critical to a team's success.
5. **Economic Trends**: Broader economic trends in the NFL influence how teams allocate their salary caps.
Yes, there are exceptions to the trend of declining running back salaries:
1. **Elite Talent**: Exceptional running backs like **Christian McCaffrey** and **Derrick Henry** still command high salaries due to their unique skills and impact on the game.
2. **Versatility**: Running backs who can also contribute significantly in the passing game or special teams may receive higher compensation.
3. **Team Needs**: Some teams may prioritize a strong running game and invest more in top-tier running backs.
4. **Contract Timing**: Players who negotiate contracts during peak performance periods can secure better deals.
These factors can lead to higher salaries for certain running backs despite the overall trend.
