NFL teams could take a lesson from Emmitt Smith. With a record 18,355 rushing yards over his 15-year career, primarily with the Dallas Cowboys, Smith remains the all-time leader in rushing attempts, touchdowns, and total touches. During an era when the NFL was heavily focused on the running game, Smith excelled. However, since his retirement two decades ago, the league has shifted its focus to making quarterbacks the central figures.
In recent years, the running back position has been underutilized, partly due to analytics and a trend where general managers prioritize other positions, making it difficult for running backs to secure lucrative contracts. Yet, after a significant offseason shakeup, teams may be starting to recognize the value of running backs again, with players like Saquon Barkley serving as examples. Barkley is just one win away from a Super Bowl title after a remarkable 2,000-yard regular season, despite the Giants opting not to offer him a long-term deal.
Smith noted a renewed commitment to the running game among certain teams, contrasting it with the previous emphasis on quarterback play. He pointed to players like Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Josh Jacobs, who all changed teams this offseason. Smith criticized the narrative that devalues running backs, suggesting it stems from offensive coordinators and the league’s focus on quarterbacks.
He also highlighted the inconsistency of teams that downplay the running game until their quarterbacks struggle. Smith remarked that when a starting quarterback is sidelined, teams often rely more heavily on their running backs, as seen with the Cowboys when Cooper Rush stepped in.
As for the Super Bowl, Smith is looking forward to enjoying snacks during the game, emphasizing the importance of having favorite chips and soda for such events.
