NFL Exec 'Thinks' Elite RBs 'Still Worth' Contracts as Derrick Henry, Saquon Succeed

The success of Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry and Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley with their respective new teams this season appears to be changing the perception of veteran ball carriers in the NFL.

The Athletic's Mike Sando spoke to a league executive who said running backs deserve to be paid what they're worth.

"I think what we're seeing here is that elite backs are still worth paying, especially if they contribute on third down," the exec said. "And then, trying to reinvent the wheel to save a couple bucks generally doesn't work."

The discourse surrounding the running back position has evolved over the last few years, with many teams unwilling to give hefty long-term contracts to aging ball carriers regardless of their previous accolades. For example, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has continued to offer excuses for why the team didn't sign Henry after he became a free agent.

This past offseason, Henry signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the Ravens, while Barkley landed a three-year contract with the Eagles that could be worth up to $46.75 million.

Both players have thrived in their new homes, with Henry leading the league with 873 rushing yards and Barkley ranking third with 658 yards. They have both proven to be difference-makers who can be the focal point of their team's offense despite being on the other side of 25 years old (Henry is 30, Barkley is 27).

After this season, more running backs could be in line to cash in on big-money deals thanks to the precedent set by Henry and Barkley.