2020 NFL Draft: Which running backs will end up getting paid?

Which running backs from the 2020 NFL draft class have the potential to receive the next big-time payday?

The 2020 NFL Draft is expected to be absolutely loaded at the running back position. That being said, are any of them good enough to buck recent trends and get a big payday when their second contract rolls around?

Le’Veon Bell, Melvin Gordon and Ezekiel Elliott, all-star running backs in a variety of situations with very different contract outcomes (so far). NFL rookie contracts are some of the most team-friendly deals in sports, especially when rookie talents such as Saquon Barkley and Ezekiel Elliott are contributing with only approximately a $6 million cap hit.

The running back position is also likely the most physically rigorous position in football, with starters regularly receiving 20+ touches a game. This continuous wear and tear can shorten a career, and Bell (arguably) made the right decision to save his body until he received the money he thought he deserved.

However, it did not work out financially, as Bell lost a significant paycheck in favor of making a statement to the league, and enabling other players in his position to make the same statement.

Each of the three players mentioned has had one of the three most likely outcomes:

• “The Good”: No sufficient replacement available, full money received before Week 1. (ex: Ezekiel Elliott)
• “The Bad”: Replacement found, still highly valued and receives contract later than desired. (ex: Le’Veon Bell)
• “The Ugly”: More than capable replacement found, no money received. (ex: Melvin Gordon, at least for now)

Running backs coming out of college should be aware of what faces them financially and need to acknowledge they may never get the big payday they desire. However, players who are talented and productive enough will always be able to make money.

In this post, we are going to take a look at the top-tier running backs in the 2020 NFL Draft and try to pin-point who could be the next breakout star to deserve the next mega-deal.

Disclaimer: These are predictions of their second contracts, and outcomes strongly depend on their team’s system and personnel. Most predictions are based upon how well they fit with modern NFL offenses and trends within the league.