The Atlanta Falcons have built some of the best depth at running back in the NFL. That depth is also a bargain according to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox.
On a list of the top 10 “most cost-efficient” backfields in the league, Knox ranked the Falcons at No. 1.
“Led by runner/receiver Cordarrelle Patterson, 2022 fifth-round pick Tyler Allgeier and 2021 undrafted free agent Caleb Huntley, the Atlanta Falcons had one of the league’s most versatile and productive backfields last season,” wrote Knox. “The Falcons finished the year ranked third in rushing yards and fourth in yards per carry. All three of Atlanta’s top backs averaged 4.8 yards per rush or more.
“Instead of simply sticking with what worked last year, Atlanta used the eighth overall pick on standout Texas running back Bijan Robinson. Robinson, who complied 1,894 scrimmage yards and 20 touchdowns last season, could enter the NFL as one of the league’s best offensive players.
“What’s perhaps even more impressive is the fact that the Falcons have assembled their dynamic running back room at a relative bargain price.”
Patterson, Robinson, Allgeier, and Huntley will approximately make a combined $11.4 million in 2023. Derrick Henry, Nick Chubb, Joe Mixon, Saquaon Barkley, Josh Jacobs and Tony Pollard will all have larger cap hits than Atlanta’s entire running back room this season.
The Falcons will likely use their running backs in the passing game as well.
Patterson posted career-highs with 52 receptions and 548 receiving yards during his first season with the Falcons in 2021. He could see more snaps at receiver again with the arrival of Robinson.
But Robinson is a strong pass-catcher too. Robinson registered 60 catches for 805 yards in three college seasons.
Meanwhile, Allgeier led the Falcons in rushing last season. He had 1,035 rushing yards while averaging 4.9 yards per carry.
The Atlanta offensive backfield has depth, versatility and low cap hits. It’s easy to see why Knox ranked it the “most cost-efficient” backfield in the league.
