Carolina Panthers: Is McCaffrey’s deal good news for NFL running backs?
By Dean Jones
What running backs are looking for new deals?
The list of NFL running backs seeking new deals is long and illustrious. A wealth of starters are either set to play on the franchise tag or head into the final year of their rookie deals in 2020.
Derrick Henry carried the Tennessee Titans into the playoffs last season. But the organization has yet to agree terms with the powerful back after placing the tag on him to avoid the player leaving in free agency.
The same situation currently impacts Kenyan Drake of the Arizona Cardinals. The talented back performed well for the franchise last season after he was traded by the Miami Dolphins. However, it doesn’t appear that they are willing to give the player a long-term commitment at this time.
Minnesota Vikings’ standout Dalvin Cook is another that wants more money this offseason. There could be reluctance from the franchise to give the player what he wants due to his injury history. But his 2019 campaign was hugely productive and puts the player in a strong position heading into contract talks.,
It will also be interesting to see what the NFC South rival New Orleans Saints do with Alvin Kamara. He became the undisputed leader of the backfield when Mark Ingram signed a deal with the Baltimore Ravens and is a dual-threat weapon when at the top of his game.
Aaron Jones of the Green Bay Packers enjoyed a career year last season and is also a candidate for more money, with the likes of Phillip Lindsay, Chris Carson, Marlon Mack, Kareem Hunt, James Conner, and Joe Mixon also seeking more security in 2020.