Compensation disputes between NFL ownership and rushers are hindering progress throughout the league. Training camps are underway, but a handful of teams have questions concerning their backfield. It caused Josh Jacobs to leave Las Vegas' during training camp. Dalvin Cook and Ezekiel Elliot still remain unsigned.
Differences in opinion did not stop rushers in the AFC North from attending Summer activities. Matt Canada, Brian Callahan, Alex Van Pelt, and Todd Monken will need all hands on deck to compete for a division title. Which offense will have the advantage heading into the 2023 season?
AFC North RB #4: Baltimore Ravens J.K Dobbins
Opposing defenses highlight one player when they scheme against the Ravens. Lamar Jackson has been Baltimore's saving grace since entering the league. He moves the offense downfield. Jackson's accuracy is questionable, but his legs are enough to secure wins. Jackson was Baltimore's leading rusher last season. He ranked second in Pro Football Focus' run rating (92.6) behind Josh Allen.
Protecting their franchise quarterback is the goal of Todd Monken's staff. Jackson agreed to a five-year contract extension worth $255 million earlier this offseason and will need to think twice about taking unnecessary blows. J.K. Dobbins will benefit from Baltimore's new offensive approach. He's been with the team for three seasons but hasn't spent time on the field. Dobbins earned nine touchdowns in his rookie season but has failed to show consistency.
Injuries have kept Baltimore's promising rusher off the field. Dobbins tore his ACL In August 2021. He missed the entire season and struggled to recover leading into the following year. Dobbins has missed 23 NFL games since entering the league. His inexperience ranks him at the bottom of this RB list, but his future remains bright if he remains healthy.