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Dubner explores why NFL running backs — once the highest-paid, most celebrated players — now have the shortest careers and lowest salaries relative to their physical sacrifice. A case study in how market forces can make essential work almost worthless.
This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.
Canon
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Dubner interviews running backs who were All-Americans in college — idolized, celebrated, destined for greatness — who became interchangeable NFL commodities within one season. The psychological adjustment from 'star' to 'replaceable' is devastating.
Highlights
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The most physically punishing jobs in professional sports are now the lowest paid — because supply exceeds demand
Running backs take the most physical punishment of any NFL position, have the shortest careers (average 2.57 years), and are now among the lowest-paid skill positions. The economics: the supply of competent running backs exceeds demand because teams can replace them cheaply.Was this useful?