4 running backs Seahawks should sign if Chris Carson walks
By Geoff Shull
Marlon Mack, Indianapolis: UFA
Marlon Mack came into the 2020 season as the unheralded number one running back for the Colts. He was coming off back to back 1,000 scrimmage yard seasons. Mack displayed a great mixture of power back and elusive back. His style of play isn’t flashy; however, he simply gets the job done.
Over his 4-year tenure, he averaged 4.4 yards per carry. His pass-catching had always been a crux to his game. However, there are plenty of signs of life over the last 2 years. In 2019 he caught 14 of 17 passes thrown his way.
Marlon Mack wasn’t going to be denied😤#ATLvsIND
— PFF (@PFF) September 22, 2019
(Via @thecheckdown)
pic.twitter.com/Z3WYxohDTO
You will notice I keep talking about previous years. There is an unfortunate reason for that. However, it is also the reason that he should be fairly inexpensive. Mack sustained an early season, season-ending injury. He had a total of 4 rushing attempts and 3 passes caught in the season opener before he tore his ACL.
2019 Stats:
Games Played: 14
Rushing Attempts: 247
Rushing yards: 1091
Yards/Attempt: 4.4
Targets: 14
Receptions: 17
Total Touchdowns: 8
The Colts GM left the door open for Mack to return but did admit it was unlikely. Mack is the youngest of all the free-agent running backs on the list at just 24. This would be a buy-low candidate for the Seahawks. If he hadn’t been injured, Mack would likely be a $9-$11 million per year candidate.
Suggested contract: 2 years, $8 million.
For Mack, there would likely need to be some incentives built-in. Something that allows his contract total to jump another $2-$2.5 million if he plays well. If Seattle is uncomfortable with an incentive-laden deal, a one year $3 million contract is likely the best route. Low-risk contract for both sides to see what they got. There will be plenty of other suitors at this price point though.