The Eagles’ Saquon Barkley deal intensifies competition, adding pressure on the Ravens to strengthen their running back position.
In the ever-changing landscape of the NFL, team rosters are shaped and re-shaped year in and year out, with front offices constantly evaluating their needs and making key decisions to improve. One of the most critical aspects of team building is the running back position, which has evolved significantly over the past decade. While the NFL has seen a shift toward more pass-heavy offenses, the importance of having a dominant running back cannot be overstated. A strong running game can open up opportunities for the passing attack, control the clock, and take pressure off the quarterback.
For the Baltimore Ravens, who are known for their strong running game and unique offense centered around quarterback Lamar Jackson, the running back position has been a focal point. However, recent moves by other teams around the league, particularly the Philadelphia Eagles’ acquisition of Saquon Barkley, have added pressure on the Ravens to further solidify their backfield and ensure they remain competitive in an increasingly competitive NFC and AFC landscape.
The Saquon Barkley Deal: What It Means for the Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles have made waves with their acquisition of Saquon Barkley, one of the premier running backs in the NFL. Barkley, who has been with the New York Giants since being drafted in 2018, is a dynamic force in the backfield, capable of changing the course of a game with his explosive speed, power, and receiving ability. Despite a series of injuries that hindered his early years in the league, Barkley has regained his form and remains one of the most talented players at his position. In 2024, Barkley rushed for over 1,300 yards and added 400 receiving yards, proving he is still among the league’s elite.
For the Eagles, acquiring Barkley is a clear indication of their commitment to continuing their dominance in the NFC East and positioning themselves for another Super Bowl run. The Eagles already possess one of the most well-rounded teams in the NFL, featuring a top-tier offensive line, a dynamic quarterback in Jalen Hurts, and a loaded wide receiving corps. However, the addition of Barkley elevates their already potent offense to another level. His ability to create big plays as both a runner and a receiver out of the backfield makes him a perfect complement to Hurts and the Eagles’ offensive scheme.
Barkley’s signing also signals Philadelphia’s confidence in their window of championship contention. By securing a player of Barkley’s caliber, the Eagles have solidified their backfield and provided Hurts with yet another weapon. With Barkley in tow, the Eagles’ offense becomes even more unpredictable, giving defensive coordinators a massive challenge when preparing for the Eagles each week. Whether it’s handing the ball off to Barkley on a designed run, utilizing him in screen plays, or having him split out as a receiver, the versatility that Barkley brings to the Eagles is invaluable.
The Impact on the Ravens
For the Baltimore Ravens, the acquisition of Barkley by the Eagles presents both an opportunity and a challenge. The Ravens, who have built their identity around a strong rushing attack, are aware of the growing importance of having a top-tier running back in today’s NFL. Baltimore has long relied on a dominant ground game, with Jackson leading the charge alongside a rotating cast of running backs. However, with the Eagles’ acquisition of Barkley, the pressure is on the Ravens to keep pace and bolster their backfield if they want to remain competitive in the AFC, especially with their key rivals continuing to improve their rosters.
The Ravens’ running game has been a key strength of their offense, largely thanks to Jackson’s unique skill set as a dual-threat quarterback. However, Baltimore has struggled with consistency at the running back position in recent years. While players like Gus Edwards, J.K. Dobbins, and Kenyan Drake have flashed moments of brilliance, injuries and inconsistency have plagued the position. Dobbins, in particular, has struggled to stay healthy after tearing his ACL in 2021, and while Edwards has been a reliable backup, he has not been able to take on a full-time starting role.
The addition of Barkley to a rival NFC team, especially one as loaded as the Eagles, adds further pressure on the Ravens to address their own running back situation. In a league where teams are looking for that dynamic playmaker who can change the game, Barkley’s deal with the Eagles underscores the importance of having a top running back. As the NFC contenders make moves to strengthen their backfields, the Ravens may feel a sense of urgency to find the right solution at running back to maintain their competitive edge in the AFC.
Strengthening the Running Back Position
The Ravens’ front office now faces a critical decision: Should they invest in a top-tier running back, either through free agency or the draft, or continue to rely on their current group of backs? The pressure is mounting to make a move, as the Ravens cannot afford to fall behind in a conference that boasts multiple high-powered offenses.
Free Agency Options
One option for the Ravens is to target a proven running back in free agency. Several experienced backs remain available, and signing a veteran could provide the Ravens with an immediate boost in their backfield. Players like Kareem Hunt, Leonard Fournette, and former Ravens back Mark Ingram could be viable options. These players bring a wealth of experience and could serve as solid contributors in a timeshare situation with Dobbins and Edwards. While none of these players would provide the same explosive potential as Barkley, they could help stabilize the running game and provide Jackson with a reliable option out of the backfield.
However, signing a free agent running back would be a short-term fix. The Ravens may opt for a longer-term solution, especially with an eye on the future.
Drafting a Running Back
Another option for the Ravens is to address the position through the draft. The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to feature a strong class of running backs, with prospects like Bijan Robinson from Texas and Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama generating a lot of buzz. Drafting a running back would not only provide the Ravens with a younger, more dynamic option, but it would also give them more control over the player’s contract and future.
In particular, Robinson is seen as one of the best running back prospects in years, and he could immediately step in as the Ravens’ starting running back. His combination of vision, speed, and pass-catching ability makes him a perfect fit for the Ravens’ offense. Gibbs, meanwhile, is known for his versatility as both a runner and a receiver, which would allow the Ravens to continue utilizing Jackson’s unique skill set while also having a playmaker in the backfield.
By drafting one of these prospects, the Ravens could establish a long-term solution at the running back position and potentially develop a star for the future. In a division where the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns continue to improve, having a dominant running back could be the key to taking Baltimore’s offense to the next level.
How the Saquon Barkley Deal Affects the AFC Landscape
While the Eagles are making moves in the NFC, the impact of Barkley’s signing extends to the AFC as well. In the AFC, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals are already among the top contenders, with high-powered offenses and elite quarterbacks. With the Ravens continuing to build their defense around players like Roquan Smith and Marlon Humphrey, the pressure is on the offense to keep pace with these other high-scoring teams.
In order to compete with these juggernauts, the Ravens need to ensure that their offense can consistently move the ball and put up points, especially in shootouts. Having a dynamic running back who can break off big runs and catch passes out of the backfield is crucial to that success. With Barkley now in the NFC, the Ravens must not only address their own backfield but also keep a close eye on how their rivals in the AFC are building their teams.
Lamar Jackson and the Running Game
Lamar Jackson’s ability as a runner has always been a key part of the Ravens’ offense. His unique playmaking ability allows him to make defenses pay, both through the air and on the ground. However, with teams in the AFC building more complete rosters, Baltimore’s success will depend on finding ways to support Jackson in his quest for another Super Bowl. That means giving him reliable options in the running game, whether through a strong backfield or a more versatile offense.
Jackson’s success as a passer depends on the defense respecting the Ravens’ running game, and the addition of a high-quality running back could be just the boost he needs. Whether through the draft or free agency, the Ravens have an opportunity to ensure that Jackson’s playmaking ability is fully supported by a balanced offensive attack.
