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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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JANUARY 09: Running back Chris Carson #32 of the Seattle Seahawks carries the football against cornerback Troy Hill #22 of the Los Angeles Rams during the first quarter of the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Lumen Field on January 09, 2021 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

2. Chris Carson

Carson’s going to really pop on take for any coach that wants a hard-charging running back to inject some attitude into their offense. He’s consistently one of the hardest working backs in the NFL. He runs with attitude and is rewarded with a lot of yards after contact.

He is hitting free agency after what was arguably a disappointing 2020 campaign. He failed to hit the 1,000 yard mark for the first time in the last three seasons. Missing four games certainly contributed to his lack of overall production.

One thing interested teams should note about Carson’s game is that he continues to improve his pass-catching skills every year. He caught a career-high 37 passes last season in just 12 games. He’s never going to turn into Alvin Kamara for his team’s aerial attack, but he can keep opposing defenses honest with his route-running abilities.

The Seahawks have a really big decision to make on Carson this offseason. It’s possible they’ll pass on paying Carson in favor of giving the starting job to 2018 first round pick Rashaad Penny. That will represent a massive gamble for Pete Carroll and his coaching staff if it comes to fruition.

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