RB Index, Week 18: Five Teams That Need to Upgrade Their Running Back Rooms This Offseason
As the 2022 NFL season draws to a close, teams are already looking ahead to the offseason and identifying areas where they need to improve. For several teams, upgrading the running back position should be a top priority.
1. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals’ running game has been a major disappointment this season, with James Conner and Eno Benjamin failing to provide any consistency. Conner has missed multiple games due to injuries, while Benjamin has struggled to produce as a starter. Arizona ranks near the bottom of the NFL in rushing yards and yards per carry. A more reliable and dynamic running back is a must for the Cardinals’ offense to take the next step.
2. Chicago Bears
David Montgomery has been a workhorse for the Bears, but he has not been efficient this season. Montgomery has averaged just 3.7 yards per carry, and he has not scored a touchdown since Week 4. Khalil Herbert has been a solid backup, but he is not yet ready to be a full-time starter. The Bears need to add a more explosive and productive running back to their offense.
3. Houston Texans
Dameon Pierce has been a bright spot for the Texans this season, but he has been overworked. Pierce has carried the ball over 20 times in each of the last four games, and he is starting to show signs of wear and tear. The Texans need to add another running back to take some of the pressure off Pierce and keep him fresh for the entire season.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars
Travis Etienne has shown flashes of his potential this season, but he has also been hampered by injuries. Etienne has missed multiple games with a foot injury, and he has not been able to find a consistent rhythm. The Jaguars need to add a more reliable running back to complement Etienne and help take the pressure off Trevor Lawrence.
5. Tennessee Titans
Derrick Henry is still one of the best running backs in the NFL, but he is not getting any younger. Henry will be 29 years old next season, and he has already had multiple surgeries on his foot. The Titans need to find a younger and more explosive running back to take some of the load off Henry and help keep him healthy for the long term.
These are just five of the teams that need to upgrade their running back rooms this offseason. With the NFL Draft and free agency approaching, there will be plenty of opportunities for these teams to improve their backfields and take their offenses to the next level.