One of the best running backs in NFL history isn’t happy with what’s happened to the position.
“I’m just going to say it,” Raiders legend Marcus Allen said. “It’s almost like a collusion.”
Allen attended the preseason opener against the 49ers at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday as part of an alumni event. He was asked about the contract situation that has star Josh Jacobs holding out.
It’s part of a league-wide trend of teams showing hesitance to commit to long-term contracts to a position largely viewed as not just replaceable, but also one with a limited lifespan in terms of high-end production.
“They decided that the running back position is one where productivity is only for a short period of time, and instead of looking at each and every one individually, they’ve decided as a group that they’re not going to pay them,” Allen said. “I can understand what (the running backs are) thinking and what they’re feeling, so I hope things work out, because to me he’s the heart and soul of the team.”
While Allen is disappointed by what’s happening to the running backs, he’s not even surprised to see last season’s league leader in rushing fail to get the deal he wanted.
“Nothing surprises me anymore,” said the Pro Football Hall of Famer.
Allen admits he might have a running-back bias, but wanted to make it clear that the position remains relevant despite struggles to be compensated at the desired level.
“I understand the game,” he said. “The running back is really the essence of American football. You throw the ball all over the field, and it looks great, and I know a lot of fans get excited, but the essence of the game is running the ball.”
“The interesting thing is that it is not devalued, but when it comes to monetarily, they are trying to do it. It is a valuable position. Together with the quarterback, we are the best friends they have on the field. I know most people think of wide receivers, but it’s still block and tackle. It’s still running the football, especially at the end of the year when it matters the most, because you don’t get to the Super Bowl or get into that conversation unless you can run the ball.”
The deadline for Jacobs to reach a long-term deal has passed. He has not signed the franchise tag, which would pay him $10.1 million. He and the Raiders also have the option to agree to a one-year contract.
