As training camp looms, star running backs Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs find themselves at a crossroads, having failed to secure long-term contracts with the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders, respectively. Both players are now facing the prospect of playing under the franchise tag, valued at $10.091 million, or holding out, a move that would incur significant fines for each missed game.

This situation has ignited a firestorm of support from fellow NFL running backs, who see Barkley and Jacobs' predicament as a symptom of a larger issue: the devaluation of the running back position. Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler, who navigated his own contract uncertainties earlier this offseason, voiced his frustration on social media, criticizing the perceived disposability of running backs despite their crucial role in team success.

Tennessee Titans standout Derrick Henry echoed Ekeler's sentiments, questioning the value placed on running backs who dedicate themselves to their craft. Henry, entering the final year of his own lucrative contract, expressed solidarity with all running backs striving for fair compensation.

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris also joined the chorus, emphasizing the importance of running backs in setting the tone for games and their multifaceted contributions to their teams. He challenged the notion that running backs deserve less, labeling it a "joke."

The devaluation of the running back market is often attributed to the emergence of talented rookie running backs on cost-effective contracts. Teams have found success with later-round draft picks, leading some to question the necessity of investing heavily in veteran running backs. However, as the cases of Barkley and Jacobs demonstrate, elite-level running backs still command significant value and seek commensurate compensation.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Barkley and Jacobs are currently restricted to negotiating one-year deals, further limiting their options. While the franchise tag provides a substantial salary, it lacks the long-term security and earning potential that a multi-year contract offers.

With training camp fast approaching, the unresolved contract situations of Barkley and Jacobs remain a major storyline in the NFL, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the value and compensation of running backs in the modern game.