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NFL Free Agency 2019: Best running backs available

By Joe D'Aloisio

PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 14: Le'Veon Bell
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 14: Le'Veon Bell /
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – JANUARY 20: New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram (22) runs the ball during the NFC Championship Football game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints on January 20, 2019 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, LA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JANUARY 20: New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram (22) runs the ball during the NFC Championship Football game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New Orleans Saints on January 20, 2019 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, LA. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

No.2: Mark Ingram, New Orleans Saints

The New Orleans Saints were a blown call away from a Super Bowl appearance, which could have driven Ingram’s value even higher. But, the 29-year old unrestricted free agent’s resume is strong enough to be a lead back in 2019.

This past season, Ingram rushed for only 645 yards, his lowest total since 2013. He also, missed the first four games of the season for violating the league policy on performance-enhancing substances. Despite missing action, he still managed to score six touchdowns on the ground.

When the Saints drafted Alvin Kamara in the third-round of the 2017 draft, and he showcased his versatility, all of the attention shifted towards him. But, Ingram still proved to be the traditional back by getting more touches and compiling more yards on the ground than Kamara.

Similar to Tevin Coleman, Ingram is one of 14 running backs, since 2014, to rush for over 2,300 yards and 1,000 receiving yards. But that doesn’t do enough justice to prove how valuable Ingram is.

Ingram is one of three players to rush for 4,500 yards and accumulate 1,400 receiving yards since 2014. The other two backs are LeSean McCoy and Todd Gurley. During that stretch, he averaged 4.7 yards per carry, compiled 6,000 yards from scrimmage and 44 total touchdowns.

According to Spotrac, Ingram’s market value is $4.4 million per season. Which is considerably low based on his production. However, his age will certainly play a role in his next contract.

For any team that fails to add Le’Veon Bell, Ingram is a very solid backup option. He will be significantly cheaper, make an immediate impact and be a leader in the locker room.

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