NFL Insider Evaluates RB Market in 2026 Free Agency After Breece Hall's Jets Franchise Tag

The New York Jets refused to let running back Breece Hall hit the open market by placing the franchise tag on him on Tuesday, and it sounds like it's a good sign for pending free-agent ball-carriers.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler explained why Hall's franchise tag is a positive sign for the running back market this offseason.

"The Breece Hall franchise tag symbolizes a strong running back market that teams seem to be excited about based on talks at the combine," Fowler stated. "There's high-level talent available at the position this year. So, the Jets made sure Hall was not available."

Hall's franchise tag is valued at $14.3 million. The Jets have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term contract for the 24-year-old.

Despite Hall not being available this offseason, teams will have a slew of high-caliber options to choose from. Seattle Seahawks star and Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III and Jacksonville Jaguars star Travis Etienne headline a deep class of free-agent running backs who could be instant difference-makers.

Teams in the market for a running back likely would've loved the chance to court Hall, but the Jets' refusal to let him walk signifies the rising value of the position.