The more time goes on, the more it might be the truth:
NFL running backs are probably too good for their own good. At least when it comes to getting paid the money they’re worth and that they’ve earned. (As our Christian D’Andrea succinctly broke down.)
Over the weekend, Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb took to the microphone to discuss the current contract struggles facing NFL star backfield players. The four-time Pro Bowler (with ridiculous squat strength, mind you) said he was part of a recently publicized Zoom call between some of the league’s difference-making tailbacks.
When asked to sum up the conversation and his personal thoughts on the situation, Chubb didn’t mince any words in a video from ESPN’s Jake Trotter.
Running backs dig deeper every time they break off a big run into the open field.
Browns RB Nick Chubb confirms he was on a video call Saturday with several of the league’s prominent RBs.”We’re in a tough situation…” pic.twitter.com/ZkIL6vUiE6
— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) July 23, 2023
As someone who will have their own likely contentious contract situation come up in a few years, Chubb seems to see the forest for the trees. (Though, notably, Chubb did sign a lucrative extension in 2021.) Despite playing well, Chubb knows he’ll probably face down the same non-existent negotiating table that is currently plaguing stars like Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs.
Chubb is up next, and he certainly won’t be the last. With the collective bargaining agreement in place until 2030, there’s no easy solution here. But none of this seems sustainable for anyone who actually wants to play running back in the NFL.
This was how Twitter reacted
Multiple teams have proven that you don’t need to pay one rb a large amount of money to be a successful offense https://t.co/qQdOAW99qG
— Zach (@holiday_burner) July 23, 2023
Only 32 starters and there are more than 32 capable starters. It's supply and demand.
— Bryan Tinsley (@Bryan_10s) July 23, 2023
This is true. I remember the Cowboys running DeMarco Murray over and over and then didn’t pay him after he had a franchise record season. https://t.co/D8dVuddy0s
— Brian H. Waters (@brianhwaters) July 24, 2023
My quick and easy answer is that rookie deals for RBs should be heavier on incentives so that they can get bonuses and such for hitting certain marks early on in their careers. Only drawback is that encourages teams to limit carries to avoid them. https://t.co/6WVWoLek32
— Rob the Genius (@rbonne1) July 24, 2023
I’ve been saying it every week.
Their only option is to take the NFL to court over the HIGHLY antiquated 3 years college before draft rule.
It’s either that or remove the rookie scale contract – which won’t happen. https://t.co/CqiAcPyagH
— Frank Michael Smith (@frankmikesmith) July 23, 2023
Imagine any other job saying you’re being so productive that we have to pay you less now.
And then to top it off, people who are nowhere near as skilled as you trip over themselves running to social media so they can tell everyone your boss is actually right. https://t.co/3Jt2geTI9C
— Ajai Coleman (@ajai_coleman) July 23, 2023
Nick doesn’t even talk much so this speaks volumes https://t.co/i3wRwoaEwI
— Bijan 😁™️ (@bj__smoove) July 23, 2023
Happy to see that Chubb is the first RBs I have heard speak on this issue that seems to understand the facts and approach with some wisdom. He's one of my favorite players and happy to see he's a smart guy too. https://t.co/umQ4iyzc4z
— Jay Urban (@JayUrban11) July 24, 2023
Chubb and Barkley are generational talents. We’re not talking about average performers. Running backs need to find a way to get paid. https://t.co/BFOjSP7ha9
— Chase Cronin (@ChseCronin) July 23, 2023
