NFL free agency 2021: Best running backs available

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 16: Aaron Jones #33 of the Green Bay Packers runs with the ball in the second quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Lambeau Field on January 16, 2021 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

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GLENDALE, ARIZONA – NOVEMBER 15: Kenyan Drake #41 of the Arizona Cardinals prepares for a game against the Buffalo Bills at State Farm Stadium on November 15, 2020 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) /

4. Kenyan Drake

Kyler Murray is the first Cardinal on every defensive scouting report, but Drake did a solid job of taking advantage of his quarterback’s star power in 2020. Soaking up 239 carries for 955 yards and 10 touchdowns certainly helped provide Arizona’s offense much-needed balance.

It’s still fair to consider Drake’s performance from last season as a disappointment. He looked much better after moving to the Cardinals down the stretch in 2019. Teams interested in his services are going to take a long look at why he failed to dominate as the team’s feature back when he was given the role for an entire season.

Failing to put up big numbers in such a comfortable situation is going to work against Drake in free agency. He might be better off staying in Arizona if they’re willing to pay him like a starter for any length of time. If he thinks the grass is greener elsewhere, he might end up taking a pay cut for a team that wants him to be a part of their backfield timeshare.

Drake’s inability to make a positive impact on his team’s aerial attack will also work against him on the open market. He only caught 25 balls in an offense that really worked hard to get the ball to its playmakers in space. Being a one-trick pony is going to depress the money he gets in 2021.

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