The Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions are locked in contract discussions with their 24-year-old running backs, who could redefine the economic landscape for the position. Saquon Barkley, signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, sets the current standard in the running back market, with a new-money average annual value of $20.6 million. However, Robinson and Gibbs are playing in a financial space dominated by star wide receivers, some of whom command upwards of $42 million annually.
Comparisons to top receivers
The core conversation is whether top running backs deserve salaries closer to those of elite wideouts. Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Ja'Marr Chase, the highest-paid receivers, are among the most frequent and effective ball carriers in the league, often rivalling the output of top running backs. This dynamic raises the question of whether the market should value these two types of players more similarly.
Running backs bring a distinct form of value. They are constant, mobile threats that force defenses to monitor them at all times, no matter their location or action. Their presence reshapes offensive strategy, making them critical to a team's success. However, this value comes at a cost—each run carries the real threat of injury, given the physical toll of navigating through a crowd of large, moving bodies.
Market forces at play
Despite their importance, teams are reluctant to commit large sums and significant cap space to such injury-prone roles. The nature of the position makes long-term financial commitments risky. Still, Robinson and Gibbs are in the peak of their careers, with both serving as primary workhorses for their respective teams.
Meanwhile, Detroit has retooled its offense to center Gibbs, building around his ability to carry the ball on a regular basis.
What teams might pay
Right now, the key negotiation is whether Robinson and Gibbs should seek a raise to the $21–$22 million range or push closer to $25 million. If either player were available on the free market, they would likely attract offers at or above the $25 million mark. That is the challenge for the Falcons and Lions: managing the delicate balance between market pressures and the unique contributions these players offer.