The NFL is not kind to aging running backs. Once players get over the age of 30 the league almost rights them off. Several running backs are learning that lesson the hard way as marquee names remain on the free agent market hoping for a contract. Injuries are about the only way veteran running backs will get a look as the Cleveland Browns could potentially be in the market for someone soon with their backs struggling to make an impact.
The Browns were hoping that the success of Isaiah Crowell and Terrance West's rookie season would carry over into their second year in the league, but so far that is not the case. The Browns wanted a two-headed running back rotation, but neither player is doing enough to earn a starting job. Running backs coach Wilbert Montgomery told the media that it looks like no one wants the starting job which could cause the Browns to look elsewhere for help.
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns are still toying with the idea of adding another running back to the rotation, but it is not clear on who they like. The Arizona Cardinals have already signed Chris Johnson, leaving Pierre Thomas, Ray Rice and Steven Jackson as the best available. Head coach Mike Pettine and general manager Ray Farmer have admitted that Rice's name has been tossed around, but the team is not ready to pull the trigger just yet.
"Right now I'd say it's all premature in my mind," Farmer said, via Cleveland.com. "We're interested in seeing what our young guys can do. Focused on them. Giving them the opportunity to demonstrate whether they can or they can't. I think we've got some talented young guys. Ray's had his career. We kind of know what he is. We think we know. There's a lot of tape."
Pettine noted that while Rice is available, so are other quality backs. He specifically called out Thomas who is being deemed as the best free agent available at this time. The Houston Texans originally targeted Thomas in a deal, but were unable to agree on a contract. The Browns could be the next team to eye the versatile back who could be a true asset to Josh McCown and Johnny Manziel.
Duke Johnson is sitting out with a hamstring injury. He is a similar running back to Thomas as he will play a big role in the receiving game as well. That could impact the decision of whether or not to sign Rice or Thomas if things get bad in Cleveland. The team is trying to remain patient with their young group of running backs, but if they fail to develop then the Browns will need to make a move.
