RBs < Kickers

[C from SD]

Coaches try to earn points with the fans and media by saying that they have to establish the run and play a hard, physical game. Losing commitment to the run game usually happens pretty quickly now since teams are less likely to be criticized for losing through a faulty passing play than by a failed running play. It is just a feedback loop where reduced rushing attempts means not investing in the position appropriately means fewer rushing attempts, etc.

https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelph...sanders-future
According to Spotrac, the average NFL running back in 2021 earned $2.34 million, which was less annually than the average kicker ($2.70 million), not even half as much as the average outside linebacker ($5.40 million), nearly 3 ½ times less than the average left tackle ($7.75 million) and about $8 million less than the average quarterback ($10.07 million).

[art vandelay]

I think it's just a matter of teams realizing that RBs are replaceable. Short careers, and highly dependent on OL play. Considering the Gurley, McCaffrey, and Zeke contracts, it seems like paying an RB is usually a bad move.

Teams pass relatively more now because it's more effective. There's no reason to get away from the run if it's working, but teams that are criticized for not being "committed" to the run usually just pass because they're losing, while teams with the lead run the ball.

https://twitter.com/reckonre/status/..._yGJKeT9JVtQ0A