With the NFL regular season over, the attention around the league has turned to the offseason season. That means the NFL Draft and free agency, with free agency getting the immediate focus. While free agency won't start until early March, the speculation and rumors have already begun about which players will hit the open market and where they'll land.
We've compiled the top 6 free agent running backs, although it's not exactly a deep free agent class this year. We're not counting restricted free agents, because they won't hit the open market. That means no C.J. Anderson, since he'll remain with the Denver Broncos. With that in mind, here are the Top 6 NFL Free Agent Running Backs And Where They Might Land:
6. Alfred Morris, Redskins
The Redskins likely won't be bringing back Morris, as Matt Jones is set to become the main back. While Morris struggled at times last season, he's shown ability in the past. He's best in a zone-blocking scheme and has upside as a buy-low candidate. Teams like the Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets and Houston Texans all make sense, among others.
Landing Spot: Houston Texans
5. Bilal Powell, Jets
Powell is the first of two Jets' RBs on this list. Both are very different players, as Powell is the speedy, third-down back type. He developed into one of the better third down backs in the NFL this season. Luckily for New York, third down backs aren't expensive. New York is the favorite to bring him back, although several teams could be interested in the Jets let him go. For more NFL Free Agency news, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
Landing Spot: New York Jets
4. Chris Ivory, Jets
Ivory will turn 28 before the start of the season, and with the Jets' limited cap space, he might not be back next year. He's a power back, one that would fit best in running back-by-committee approach. If he does leave the Jets, teams like the New England Patriots (if LeGarrette Blount leaves) and Houston Texans (if Arian Foster is cut) make sense as destinations. Of course, the Jets might be able to keep Ivory.
Landing Spot: New England Patriots
3. Matt Forte, Bears
We know one place Forte won't be playing next year: Chicago. The Bears won't be bringing Forte back, and he'll likely try to chase a Super Bowl this offseason. That makes teams like the Cowboys, New England Patriots, New York Giants and Seattle Seahawks strong contenders. The Cowboys were linked to Forte at the start of last season, and if Forte takes a sizable discount, that could be a match.
Landing Spot: Dallas Cowboys
2. Doug Martin, Buccaneers
Martin is coming off a strong season, which means he's going to get paid. He looked like the running back he was in his rookie year and it's perfect timing for Martin. He only just turned 27, meaning teams shouldn't be too worried about Martin's production falling off. He's a true feature back. The Bucs are flush with cap space and it's highly likely he'll be back in Tampa Bay. For more on NFL Free Agency rumors, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
Landing Spot: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
1. Lamar Miller, Dolphins
Miller is at the top of the list, although there isn't a ton of separation among the top three RBs. Miller is the youngest of the group, and will be just 25 when the season starts. He also has the least wear and tear, in part because the Dolphins' previous regime refused to give him the ball enough. The Dolphins want to bring back Miller, but limited cap space might make that a challenge. If he leaves, he'll have plenty of suitors. The Dolphins are the current favorite, although losing Miller could put them in the middle of the Forte sweepstakes.
Landing Spot: Miami Dolphins
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