
Roundtable Discussion: Running Back Signings in Free Agency Unlikely to Affect NFL Draft Plans….readmore…..
Roundtable Discussion: Running Back Signings in Free Agency Unlikely to Affect NFL Draft Plans
With the NFL Draft fast approaching, teams across the league have been busy filling roster gaps through free agency. While many teams have added running backs to bolster depth or provide veteran leadership, analysts agree that these moves are unlikely to significantly influence how franchises approach the position in the upcoming draft.
In this roundtable discussion, NFL insiders and analysts weigh in on the recent flurry of running back signings and why they believe the draft strategy for the position remains unchanged.
A Short-Term Fix, Not a Long-Term Solution
One of the key takeaways from this offseason has been the nature of the running back deals. Most of the free-agent contracts signed have been short-term, low-cost agreements—indicative of stopgap solutions rather than long-term investments.
“You look at teams like the Cowboys, Chargers, and Giants,” said NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah. “They’ve all brought in veteran backs like Ezekiel Elliott or Gus Edwards on one- or two-year deals. That tells you these teams aren’t necessarily locking up the position—they’re buying time.”
The short-term contracts provide flexibility. Teams can still target running backs in the draft without being tied down by a large financial commitment to aging veterans. It’s a signal that the draft will continue to play a critical role in how backfields are constructed moving forward.
Draft Class Depth Plays a Role
Another factor that contributes to the unchanged draft outlook is the depth of talent at running back in the 2025 draft class. While this year’s class may not have a clear-cut first-round star like Bijan Robinson or Saquon Barkley, it features a number of quality prospects expected to go in the middle rounds.
Names like Michigan’s Donovan Edwards, Florida State’s Trey Benson, and Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson have all generated buzz among scouts and general managers. With such a deep group available between rounds two and five, teams feel confident they can find value at the position without having to reach early.
“There’s a solid mix of power runners, pass-catchers, and home-run hitters in this class,” said ESPN’s Jordan Reid. “Teams know they can address other priorities early and still land a quality back on Day 2 or Day 3.”
Veteran Signings Add Competition, Not Clarity
In many cases, the running backs signed in free agency are being brought in to compete, not dominate. While some may earn starting reps, others are expected to fill rotational or situational roles.
Take the case of the Los Angeles Chargers, who added J.K. Dobbins on a modest deal. While Dobbins has shown flashes of brilliance in his career, his injury history raises questions. He’ll be in the mix for carries, but the team is widely expected to target another running back in the draft to shore up the depth chart.
Similarly, the Dallas Cowboys brought back Ezekiel Elliott after parting ways with Tony Pollard, but Elliott is likely a short-term bridge while the team evaluates younger talent.
“You’re not seeing teams solve their running back needs in free agency—they’re just trying to stabilize things,” said CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco. “That’s why I think we’ll still see a decent number of running backs go in rounds three through five.”
The Financial Shift in RB Value
The running back market has undergone a significant shift in recent years. Once a highly valued position, it has become increasingly devalued in terms of long-term investment. Most teams are reluctant to give second contracts to running backs and prefer to rely on rookie deals.
That trend continues to shape both free agency and the draft.
“It’s no secret that teams are reluctant to pay running backs big money,” said Yahoo Sports’ Charles Robinson. “So, the strategy becomes: get them cheap, get them young, and use them while they’re fresh. That philosophy directly benefits the draft class each year.”
Looking Ahead to Draft Weekend
As teams finalize their draft boards, the consensus is clear: the running backs signed in free agency may influence depth charts today, but they won’t deter general managers from drafting the next star.
Whether it’s a team seeking a dynamic third-down option, a bell-cow back, or a dual-threat contributor, the 2025 NFL Draft remains the primary avenue for addressing the position’s long-term future.
Expect to see a wave of running backs taken between rounds two and five—and don’t be surprised if a few undrafted gems emerge as well. The position may no longer command the same prestige, but it remains essential to the modern NFL offense.
In short, free agency may have adjusted the backfield landscape temporarily, but when the draft rolls around, all bets are back on.