NFL Best-Value Backfields: Where Do Falcons Rank?
The Atlanta Falcons are building their identity on running the football.
That was made clear when the Falcons ranked third in the NFL in rushing yards in 2022, but it was doubled down on when Atlanta selected Bijan Robinson with the No. 8 overall pick in this year's draft. Robinson joins a backfield with Cordarrelle Patterson and Tyler Allgeier, who ran for over 1,000 yards in his rookie season in 2022.
There's a lot of talent in the running back room, but the Falcons aren't spending a ton of money on the position, making Atlanta the best-value backfield in the NFL according to Bleacher Report.
"While the investments in Patterson and Robinson are noteworthy, this team's top four backs will collectively cost just under $11.4 million in 2023," Bleacher Report writes. "To put that into perspective, an $11.4 million annual salary would be the seventh-highest in the NFL among running backs. Atlanta is set to pay an entire position group less than good-not-great running backs like Aaron Jones and Joe Mixon will make this season."
While most teams look to invest more in the quarterback position, the Falcons are doing the opposite by building their team with the ground game holding more importance. Because of the smart investments made in the running back room, the team can spend money elsewhere. The Falcons spent much of that money on defense this offseason, hoping to improve a bottom-10 unit.
The smart bargains on offense can be felt throughout the rest of the roster, and there's hope that it can be the foundation that pushes Atlanta back into the playoff picture this season.
You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Falcons? Click Here.
Follow Falcon Report on Twitter.
Want even more Atlanta Falcons news? Check out the SI.com team page here
