The Atlanta Falcons are staring down a decision that’s becoming increasingly common in today’s NFL: what to do with a productive, reliable running back who’s been overshadowed by a younger, flashier star. In this case, it’s Tyler Allgeier, who’s headed toward free agency after three seasons of steady work in Atlanta’s backfield.
Drafted in the fifth round back in 2022, Allgeier quickly proved he could handle a heavy workload. He rushed for over 1,000 yards as a rookie, showing a physical, downhill style that fit well with the Falcons’ identity at the time. But the landscape shifted dramatically when Atlanta drafted Bijan Robinson - a dynamic, do-it-all back - who has since emerged as one of the league’s premier offensive weapons.
With Robinson now the clear focal point of the Falcons’ ground game, Allgeier’s role has naturally shrunk. That doesn’t mean he’s fallen off - far from it.
In 2025, he still managed 514 rushing yards and found the end zone eight times, operating as a dependable change-of-pace option behind Robinson. And before that, he posted back-to-back seasons with over 600 rushing yards in 2023 and 2024.
He’s been consistent, efficient, and quietly productive.
The reality, though, is that the Falcons are likely preparing to invest heavily in Robinson’s future. A megadeal is looming, and when you’re allocating that kind of cap space to one back, it’s tough to justify keeping another one around - especially when he’s due for a raise of his own. That’s the business side of the game, and it likely means Allgeier will be looking for a new home in 2026.
So where does he fit? He’s not a Pro Bowl-caliber back, but he doesn’t need to be.
What Allgeier brings is value: a tough runner with vision, patience, and a nose for the end zone. He’s the kind of player who can thrive in a committee or step in as a starter when needed - and he won’t break the bank.
Several teams could use that kind of back. The Denver Broncos, for example, have an intriguing young piece in RJ Harvey, but pairing him with a veteran like Allgeier would give them a more balanced attack.
The Kansas City Chiefs, despite their offensive firepower, could use more consistency in the backfield. Isiah Pacheco brings energy, and Kareem Hunt has experience, but Allgeier could stabilize that unit and add a bit more juice between the tackles.
In Dallas, the Cowboys are facing uncertainty with Javonte Williams potentially hitting free agency. Allgeier would be a solid, cost-effective replacement who could thrive in Brian Schottenheimer’s system.
And up in Minnesota, the Vikings might be looking to reset at running back. Aaron Jones is clearly on the back nine of his career, and while Jordan Mason had a strong 2025, adding Allgeier to that mix could give the Vikings a reliable 1-2 punch.
Bottom line: Tyler Allgeier may not be the headline name in this year’s free agent class, especially with backs like Breece Hall and Kenneth Walker III potentially hitting the market. But he’s the kind of player who can quietly elevate a team’s run game.
He’s durable, efficient, and still just 26 years old. For teams looking to solidify their backfield without spending big, Allgeier could be one of the smartest pickups of the offseason.