“Running backs don’t matter” is now a common refrain from fans everywhere, but does the NFC East subscribe to the theory? The Dallas Cowboys got out from Ezekiel Elliott’s contract, then put the franchise tag on Tony Pollard. The New York Giants hit Saquon Barkley with a franchise tag designation as well. The Washington Commanders have two running backs drafted in the top 100 picks, and the Philadelphia Eagles replaced former second-round pick Miles Sanders by signing Raashad Penny and trading for D’Andre Swift.
For this division, running the ball and playing defense is key, so not only do the running backs matter, but how well they end up performing could determine who wins the NFC East. Here is a look at how the running back rooms rank within the division.