The Free Agent Market is a perfect place to find upgrades. This year’s frenzy changes projections for teams in the upcoming campaign. A plethora of running back signings put media headlines in a chokehold. Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry found new homes - creating a challenge for divisional opponents.
Which NFL Franchise landed the best free agent running back signing?
NFL Free Agent RB Signing #5: New York Giants sign Devin Singletary
The New York Giants need significant help to become a contender in the NFC East. Inconsistencies behind the center hindered Brian Daboll’s unit in 2023. Daniel Jones’ future is uncertain - adding more uncertainty for fans to carry in the upcoming campaign. Investing in the offensive line during the first day of free agency was a good step in the right direction. Saquon Barkley later signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. Devin Singletary agreed to take the Pro-Bowler’s spot soon after. The former third-round pick is an asset for an offense searching for an identity. Singletary earned 1,091 yards from scrimmage last season. He could become a primary weapon behind a revamped offensive line.
NFL Free Agent RB Signing #4: Chicago Bears sign D’Andre Swift
Speculation surrounding Justin Fields’ future has not hindered Ryan Poles from making executive decisions. The Chicago Bears are determined to improve from previous seasons. It began during free agency. While franchises waited for an update on Fields, Poles upgraded his backfield. The Bears agreed to a three-year deal worth $24.5 million. The former second-round pick had an impressive stint with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023. He finished the season ranked fifth in rushing yards (1,049) and scored five touchdowns. An experienced tailback is the best weapon for a developing gunslinger. We are uncertain who will lead the Bears next season. Swift is still capable of guiding them to success.
NFL Free Agent RB Signing #3: Baltimore Ravens sign Derrick Henry
Running the football is the trademark of the Baltimore Ravens. It’s expected when the most dynamic quarterback in the league is on the roster. Lamar Jackson’s ability creates opportunities for his peers to succeed. He’s the best rusher. That was, until Monday Tuesday afternoon. A two-year deal worth $16 million made Derrick Henry the newest of the backfield. The four-time Pro-Bowler is a physical runner with breakaway speed. He ranked second in rushing yards (1,167) and fourth in offensive grading (90.2). He will become another headache for opposing defenses to account for in a lethal offense.
NFL Free Agent RB Signing #2 Green Bay Packers sign Josh Jacobs
There were a handful of free-agent running backs available. Josh Jacobs had the highest ceiling. The fifth-year veteran is the most productive and youthful (26) prospect. Jacobs is an every-down back that excels in open space. He earned 805 rushing yards in 13 games after leading the league in the league (1,653) in 2022. An impressive resume convinced the Green Bay Packers to agree to a four-year $48 million deal with the former first-round pick. He’s a great addition to an offense looking to surround Jordan Love with weapons.
NFL Free Agent RB Signing #1: Philadelphia Eagles sign Saquon Barkley
An absent ground attack put unnecessary pressure on Jalen Hurts’ shoulders last year. He became reckless with the football - resulting in more interceptions (15) and fewer wins. The Philadelphia Eagles are considered an elite team in the NFC. They needed another superstar to assist Hurts in the backfield. Saquon Barkley is the perfect candidate. Lincoln Financial Field is not an unfamiliar place to the former first-round pick. Barkley attended Penn State University and played for the rival New York Giants. His past affiliations did not stop Howie Roseman from investing in a generational talent. Saquon Barkley is a game-changer in any offense. He will continue to prove that with his new team.
An intense free agency shuffle helped players find new homes for the upcoming season. Efficient results will determine if the off-season signings were worth engaging in the frenzy. The opportunity to enhance the roster excites fans and owners throughout the league. It could lead to one of the best seasons in a long time.
All statistics courtesy off pff.com