Don't give huge contracts to overworked running backs. I know the "Curse of 370" is an unprovable abstract idea. But at some point the correlation gets creepy.

However, further research by myself shows that RBs are a dime a dozen.  Was Priest that great?  Was LJ that great?  Umm...well behind our line, ya they were that great.  The key to everything is the offensive line.

And Chris brings up a great point about the curse of 370.  It's not scientific by any means, there's no explanation for it, but most backs don't come back and perform well after hitting that landmark number.  I don't need scientific facts or other explanations to tell me that past history scares me on this one.

Steven Jackson is a bit different though.  He's so important to your offense specifically.  Catching the ball out of the backfield, pounding it, etc.  I would just be a bit worried about your offensive line situation.  He's going to take a beating next year (even if you get Jake).  He wasn't even healthy this year, which isn't a good sign at his age.

Also, with the Rams at least, you guys are in a similar boat to us.  You won't be legitimate contenders for a couple years.  You need to use that time to build your offensive line and defense.  Let's say that takes 2 years (which is being generous).  That's 2 more years of pounding the football (probably moreso in the next few years considering your WR corps aren't exactly, um, young), 2 more years of abuse on his body.  If, big if, he makes it through those couple years, and you do build up your offense and defense and become legitimate contenders, then you've got a Steven Jackson who has a lot of wear and tear on him and approaching 30 years old (believe he'll be 25 by the time next season starts, so add 3 years of rebuilding to that and he'll be 28).

Optimism certainly wouldn't be the word I used to describe that situation (hey, kinda like the Chiefs...)

*MAWK is thugged from behind, duct tape wrapped around his mouth, and dragged to parts unknown. In his place, the hooded conspirators have placed a clone, Herm Edwards Was Right, Dammnit, or HEWRD.

HEWRD: Well, I for one think that you have to pay running backs what they're worth.  You can't predict how a player is going to perform. Your biggest concern should be making sure that they are committed to you in the long run! If there are any problems, just blame it on an O-line that's older than most forests!  Pile on the money! Also, Chan Gailey is swell, isn't he? You play! To Win! The Game!

Since the negotiations started, I have been exceptionally cynical about this kid -- injury or not.  I do not think he has the passion for the game or any concept of teamwork.  Period.

When I think of what we could have done with that chunk of the salary cap...grrr.

To him - Absolutely
To the Team - Jury is still out
To the Fans - Absolutely Not

I have always thought that position players contracts should be simpler.

1. They are payed the League minimum as a base plus 10% each year they play in the League.
   
2. Negotiate the percentage or a flat rate for each category of performance they achieve in a single year.
   
3. Add 5% for previous years performance to each offensive category if those expectations were met the previous year.
   
4. Bonuses are paid through a negotiated sum between games played, started and playoff performances.
   
5. Injuries do not count against you other than you do not get money for non performing.  You still get your base plus the longevity.