2025 NFL Free Agency: A Sparse Running Back Landscape
The 2024 NFL free agency period witnessed a veritable stampede of running back talent hitting the open market. Names like Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Josh Jacobs dominated headlines and sparked bidding wars, painting a picture of a league eager to invest in the position. However, the outlook for the 2025 free agent running back class is dramatically different, resembling more of a trickle than a torrent. The cupboard, to put it frankly, looks rather bare.
Instead of a buffet of Pro Bowl-caliber options, teams seeking running back help in 2025 will likely find themselves sifting through a group that resembles the waiver wire fodder of a typical fantasy football season. While a few potential impact players are lurking, the overall depth and star power are significantly diminished compared to the previous year. This dearth of free agent talent is expected to drive increased interest in the upcoming NFL draft, which is rumored to boast a strong class of running backs. Teams hesitant to spend premium draft capital on the position may find themselves settling for less proven commodities in free agency.
The Top Contenders in a Shallow Pool
As free agency looms, let’s delve into the top running backs slated to test the open market in 2025. It’s a group characterized by question marks – age, injury history, and perceived limitations – making the evaluation process all the more crucial for teams in need.
Aaron Jones: Jones, a seasoned veteran, stands out as arguably the best available option. Following his departure from Green Bay, he seamlessly transitioned to the Minnesota Vikings, enjoying a productive 2024 season. He amassed a career-high 255 carries, translating to 1,138 rushing yards and five touchdowns. His ability to contribute as a receiver is also noteworthy, as evidenced by his 51 receptions for 408 yards and two touchdowns. Despite his age (over 30) and a history of injuries, Jones’ proven production and dual-threat capabilities make him an attractive, potentially more affordable, option for teams seeking a veteran presence in their backfield.
Najee Harris: Harris, known for his physical running style, has consistently surpassed the 1,000-yard mark in each of his four NFL seasons. However, he lacks breakaway speed, evidenced by a career-long run of just 37 yards. His average of 3.9 yards per carry suggests he’s more of a grinder than a game-breaker. A significant concern surrounding Harris is his workload. He has carried the ball at least 200 times in six consecutive seasons, dating back to his college days at Alabama. This heavy usage could raise concerns about wear and tear, potentially limiting his appeal as a starting running back, especially given the presence of promising rookies in the draft.
J.K. Dobbins: Dobbins’ career has been plagued by injuries, but his talent is undeniable. He experienced a career resurgence with the Chargers in 2024, accumulating over 1,000 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns. This performance came after several injury-marred seasons, highlighting his potential when healthy. The key for Dobbins will always be his ability to stay on the field. If he can demonstrate durability, he could be a valuable addition to a team seeking a dynamic playmaker.
Javonte Williams: Williams burst onto the scene as a rookie, showcasing impressive versatility. However, a torn ACL in 2022 derailed his momentum. While he has since returned to the field, he hasn’t quite recaptured his previous form. A change of scenery could be beneficial for Williams, offering him a fresh start to rediscover his potential. At just 24 years old, he still possesses the youth and raw talent to warrant consideration.
Malik Davis Dowdle: Dowdle capitalized on an opportunity in Dallas. He rushed for 1,079 yards as the lead back. While he performed admirably, the Cowboys might prioritize drafting a running back, potentially making Dowdle expendable. Despite this, at 26 years old with limited starting experience, Dowdle possesses considerable untapped potential and could be a high-upside addition for a team willing to invest in his development.
The Injury-Prone Contingent and Other Considerations
The 2025 free agent running back class is further complicated by a group of players with significant injury concerns.
Nick Chubb: Chubb, once considered one of the league’s premier running backs, has battled a series of severe knee injuries. While he attempted to return in 2024, his performance was inconsistent, and he suffered a foot injury late in the season. His durability is a major question mark.
Kareem Hunt: Hunt resurrected his career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024, filling in admirably for an injured Isiah Pacheco. While he demonstrated he still has something to offer, his age and past off-field issues remain considerations.
Alexander Mattison: Mattison, known for his time as Dalvin Cook’s backup in Minnesota, proved to be a capable option with the Raiders. He represents a solid, dependable choice for teams seeking a rotational back.
Darrell Henderson Jr.: Henderson has bounced around the league due to injuries. He’s a low-risk, potential flier for teams looking for depth.
Kenneth Gainwell: Gainwell has been a reliable backup throughout his career. He serves as a versatile change-of-pace back.
Restricted Free Agents: The Wild Cards
Two intriguing running backs, Jaylen Warren and Jordan Mason, are set to become restricted free agents. This complicates their availability, as their respective teams (Steelers and 49ers) have the right to match any offers they receive. Warren’s explosiveness and receiving ability make him a highly sought-after player, while Mason’s success as a fill-in for Christian McCaffrey demonstrates his potential.
The Draft as an Alternative
The perceived weakness of the 2025 free agent running back class is expected to amplify interest in the upcoming NFL draft. Several promising running backs are projected to be available, offering teams the opportunity to acquire younger, potentially more dynamic talent. Teams with early draft picks might be particularly tempted to address their running back needs via the draft, bypassing the uncertainties of the free agent market.
Conclusion: A Buyer’s Market for Teams with Limited Options
The 2025 free agent running back landscape presents a challenging scenario for teams seeking a significant upgrade at the position. The lack of star power and the prevalence of injury concerns suggest that teams will need to be strategic and realistic in their evaluations. The draft is poised to be a popular alternative, and teams that do venture into free agency will likely find themselves in a buyer’s market, able to negotiate favorable deals for players with question marks. The running back carousel is always spinning, but in 2025, it might just be moving a little slower, with fewer horses to choose from.
