Derrick Henry cheers on other running backs (including JK Dobbins) who have been free agent hits

It wasn’t long ago that one of the hottest conversations around the NFL was about how running backs were no longer getting paid.

That changed this offseason as teams rushed to undrafted free agent running backs, and their investments have paid off handsomely.

The NFL’s three leading rushers all changed teams in free agency this offseason: Ravens’ Derrick Henry, Eagles’ Saquon Barkley and Packers’ Josh Jacobs. Former Raven turned Charger JK Dobbins isn’t too far behind the leaders.

When Henry and Dobbins start Monday night in Los Angeles, it will not only be a testament to the value of running backs, but proof that sometimes a change of country can be good for all parties involved.

“They’re franchise players; they show it, (and) they prove it week after week,” Henry said. “Those guys work hard to let it show during the season and I’m glad they’re able to showcase their talents and (have) a great year. And hopefully they’ll open doors for the future and other run. backs coming up (in) free agency to get paid as well.”

Due to injuries, Dobbins never got a chance to show his full potential in Baltimore. There was always a part of him that thought he didn’t get enough carries as a rookie when he led the league in yards per carry. carry. And there was always a part of him that resented the fact that his first major knee injury occurred in a preseason game.

That being said, Dobbins loved Baltimore. Last August, when Dobbins entered a contract year and was healthy again, he said he wanted to be a Raven for life. Just 18 days later, he suffered a torn Achilles in the Ravens’ season opener.

The Ravens turned the page and signed Henry to a two-year deal instead after the initial free-agency frenzy for younger running backs subsided. About a month later, Dobbins signed a one-year, $1.6 million deal — essentially a prove-it deal — with the Chargers.

Henry has been a home run in Baltimore, leading the league with 1,185 yards and scoring a touchdown in every game he has played. Dobbins has been a workhorse in Los Angeles, where he has run for 726 yards and eight touchdowns.

“I’ll always be happy for any running back. JK had a short period with injuries, but he’s come back and is showing his hard work and his heart to get back at it,” Henry said.

“He’s having a great year, he’s doing a great job for them. Hats off to him and the year he’s had. I’m happy to see him back (there), playing and doing great things for his team .”