Top 2023 NFL Free Agent RBs
The free agent market for running backs is solid heading into 2023 NFL free agency. There are a few running backs who were at the top of the league in rushing. The franchise tag might be in play for some. Here’s a look and more information on the top NFL free agent RBs this offseason.
Top Running Backs Entering 2023 NFL Free Agency
The class had some big names including Josh Jacobs, Saquon Barkley, and Tony Pollard but the Raiders, Giants, and Cowboys used the Franchise Tag on them. The class is now headlined by Eagles standout RB Miles Sanders.
It will be interesting to see what interest comes from the market as teams don’t value the running back position like they used to. Still, there are running backs in the free-agent class worth considering.
Most of the deals for running backs in recent years have been shorter. Leonard Fornette signed for three years and $21 million in 2022 while Rashaad Penny got a one-year deal worth $5.75 million. This class will likely command more money than the group last year considering it has several who had over 1,000 yards from scrimmage during the 2022 season.
Miles Sanders
Sanders had his best year for the Eagles with 1,269 yards and 11 rushing touchdowns. He played in all 17 games and averaged almost five yards per carry. He’s had solid production in his career and averages five yards per carry which will catch attention.
Damien Harris
Injuries ruined Harris’ season for the Patriots. He started just nine games and had 462 yards on the ground. In 2021, he played 15 games and had 929 yards rushing. His health will be the biggest issue. When he plays a full season, he can produce including 15 rushing touchdowns in 2021.
Jamaal Williams
Williams broke Barry Sanders’ franchise record with 17 rushing touchdowns in the 2022 season. He is a fan favorite and the Lions are likely looking to bring him back. Williams had 1,066 yards rushing and averaged over four yards a carry for head coach Dan Campbell.
Devin Singletary
Singletary has had four solid seasons with the Bills and has racked up over 3,100 yards on the ground. He scored five touchdowns in 2022 while running for 819 yards. He has also had at least 38 receptions in each of the last three seasons for Buffalo.
Raheem Mostert
Mostert will be 32 years old but he had a career year with 891 yards last season with the Dolphins. He scored three touchdowns and was sitting at 4.9 YPC.
David Montgomery
Montgomery has only had one season of at least 1,000 yards in his career with the Bears. He has never had less than 800 yards and is good for 5-8 touchdowns a season. Montgomery played in 16 games in 2022 and also caught 34 passes out of the backfield for 316 yards.
More Free Agent Running Backs
There are more running backs with solid experience that will be looking for new teams including Alexander Mattison, Kareem Hunt, Rex Burkhead, Mark Ingram, Ronald Jones II, and D’Onta Foreman.
Foreman had 914 rushing yards for the Panthers which was the best mark of his career. He also had a career-high five rushing touchdowns. Mattison had 283 yards and five rushing touchdowns behind Dalvin Cook for the Vikings.
Top NFL Free Agent RBs FAQs
The official start time for NFL free agency is 4 p.m. eastern on March 15, 2023. Teams are allowed to contact the official agents of players starting on March 13 during the legal tampering period.
An unrestricted free agent is a player who is free to sign with any team. They must have at least four years of experience in the league and an expiring contract.
Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Tony Pollard have all had the Franchise Tag used on them. They will remain with their teams for at least one more season. Other names in free agency are Miles Sanders, David Montgomery, Damien Harris, and Jamaal Williams.
Sources have stated that Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Tony Pollard are receiving the franchise tag from their respective teams.
