Breece Hall has once again stirred conversation regarding his future with the New York Jets, just days ahead of the NFL free agency period. The talented running back, who was drafted in the second round out of Iowa State in 2022, has established himself as a starting-caliber player. In the previous season, he recorded 243 carries, accumulating 1,065 rushing yards along with 350 receiving yards, bringing his total yards from scrimmage to 1,415, ranking him 10th among NFL running backs.
Over the course of four seasons, Hall has amassed 3,398 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns, in addition to 1,642 receiving yards and nine receiving touchdowns, while averaging 4.5 yards per carry. This impressive performance is precisely why his recent comments are significant. During a recent appearance for Topps trading cards, Hall candidly expressed, “You know, I don”t know… I”ve addressed this for the last six, seven months now. But now I”m just kind of like whatever happens, happens.”
He continued, “I”m just where my feet are, and letting God and my agent handle everything else. I feel like my play speaks for itself, considering the situations I”ve been in the last few years. I”m going to get everything that”s coming to me, so I”m not too worried about it.”
The franchise and transition tag window for the league is currently open and will conclude on March 3, a pivotal deadline that may determine whether Hall enters the free agency market. Should the Jets decide to apply the franchise tag, the anticipated one-year salary for a running back is approximately $14.5 million for the 2026 season. In contrast, the transition tag would involve a slightly reduced figure but provides the team with less protection if another franchise extends an offer.
Previously, Hall was under a four-year, $9 million rookie contract and is seen as a prime candidate for a new deal worth around $10.3 million per season, which would place him among the top ten highest-paid running backs in the league based on average annual value. While the financial landscape for running backs has softened compared to quarterbacks and wide receivers, guaranteed money and long-term contracts remain highly sought after.
As analysts highlight him as one of the premier running backs to monitor this offseason, Hall”s “whatever happens, happens” mindset places additional pressure on the Jets. The organization must now make a crucial decision: implement the franchise tag, accelerate contract negotiations, or risk allowing one of their most dynamic offensive players to explore the free-agent market.
