The NFL 2021 season is fast approaching, and with it, the fate of several running backs whose contracts are set to expire. These athletes have been critical to their teams` success over the years, making it crucial for clubs to improve their contracts or risk losing them to free agency. Here is an overview of some of the top NFL running backs with expiring contracts.

1. Aaron Jones, Green Bay Packers

Jones is coming off one of his most productive seasons, with 1,104 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He has been an essential element of the Packers` offense, and his versatility makes him an attractive player to other teams. With a projected market value of around $12 million per season, the Packers will need to offer Jones a competitive contract to keep him in Green Bay.

2. Chris Carson, Seattle Seahawks

Carson has proved himself to be a dependable running back for Seattle, with 1,230 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in the 2020 season. He is a powerful runner who can catch passes out of the backfield, making him a valuable asset. However, Carson has struggled with injuries in the past, which may impact negotiations. Still, the Seahawks will likely look to keep him on the team.

3. James Conner, Pittsburgh Steelers

Conner has been a key player for the Steelers, with over 1,000 rushing yards in 2018. However, he has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, which may impact his market value. Additionally, the Steelers drafted Najee Harris in the 2021 NFL Draft, which could hint at a potential replacement for Conner.

4. Phillip Lindsay, Houston Texans

Lindsay has been a consistent performer for the Denver Broncos over the past two seasons, but the team chose not to tender him as a restricted free agent. He signed a one-year, $3.25 million contract with the Texans in March, but his role on the team is uncertain, given the Texans` current situation. The Texans may be looking to rebuild, and Lindsay may not fit into their long-term plans.

5. Kenyan Drake, Las Vegas Raiders

Drake signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals in 2020 but was traded to the Raiders in the offseason. His production has been inconsistent, but he has shown flashes of brilliance, including a four-touchdown game in 2020. The Raiders may look to extend his contract, but the team already has Josh Jacobs, who is the clear starter.

The bottom line

Each of these NFL running backs has a unique set of strengths and weaknesses, making their futures uncertain. However, with the NFL season right around the corner, it`s essential for teams to decide whether to extend their contracts or let them hit free agency. For NFL fans, it`s a waiting game to see which running backs will stay with their current teams or sign new deals with other franchises.