NFL Rumors: Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs Top RB FA Market Ahead of Henry, Swift, More

After the New York Giants made the decision not to place their franchise tag on star running back Saquon Barkley on Tuesday, the 27-year-old is reportedly set to be one of the most attractive players on the free-agent market.

According to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, Barkley and Las Vegas Raiders star Josh Jacobs "sit at the top of [free-agent running back] lists, followed by the next wave of backs like" Derrick Henry, D'Andre Swift and Tony Pollard.

Despite the interest that Barkley and Jacobs are expected to generate, Russini noted that some teams would "rather pay [second-tier] players around $6 million rather than $10 million-plus to Jacobs and Barkley."

The running back market will be filled with talented players when free agency officially opens on March 13, but it remains to be seen if that will change how teams view the position.

In recent years, the shift to passing-centric offenses has led to a devaluation of the running back position, with many believing the best option is to draft a young prospect with fresh legs rather than paying a premium to sign a seasoned veteran.

Still, Barkley is sure to have his fair share of suitors while he's on the open market for the first time in his career. The two-time Pro Bowler appeared in 14 games last season and rushed for 962 yards and six touchdowns while adding 280 receiving yards and four more scores.

Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 in Houston recently reported that Barkley has "targeted" the Houston Texans "as his top potential destination and has been communicating with" quarterback C.J. Stroud, who was named Offensive Rookie of the Year after his stellar first season.

The Texans are set to have $70 million in cap space, so they will be able to add a top free agent to a young team coming off an AFC South title and a trip to the AFC Divisional Round in the playoffs.