NFL RBs revive careers: Henry, Barkley shine early in season

In the United States, Derrick Henry is leading NFL running backs in scrimmage yards per game seven games into his first season with the Baltimore Ravens. Following his move, Saquon Barkley, who previously played for the New York Giants, ranks second in scrimmage yards with his new team, the Philadelphia Eagles. Both players are part of a trend where several teams that increased their financial investment in veteran running backs are seeing positive outcomes compared to last season's performance. Meanwhile, Josh Jacobs and Joe Mixon, who also changed teams, have been performing well, showcasing the effective strategies utilized by these franchises when addressing running back positions during the offseason. Teams that have elevated their investments, including Baltimore, Minnesota, and Green Bay, are reaping benefits, with improved scrimmage yards indicating that those financial commitments are paying off. Specifically, the Eagles, Packers, Texans, Ravens, and Vikings are averaging 33.4 additional scrimmage yards per game relative to the previous season. Analysts suggest that the resurgence of elite running backs in favorable environments validates their market value, especially for those who contribute significantly to their team's performance. As a result, the decisions made by these teams reflect a growing recognition of the importance of reliable running backs in enhancing overall team effectiveness, leading to more competitive standings in the league.