NFL Exec 'Thinks' Elite RBs 'Still Worth' Contracts as Derrick Henry, Saquon Succeed

The success of Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry and Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley with their respective new teams this season appears to be changing the perception of veteran running backs in the NFL.

The Athletic's Mike Sando spoke to a league executive who said running backs deserve to be paid what they're worth.

"I think what we're seeing here is that elite backs are still worth paying, especially if they contribute on third down," the exec said. "And then, trying to reinvent the wheel to save a couple bucks generally doesn't work."

The discourse surrounding the running back position has evolved over the last few years, with many teams unwilling to give hefty…