Onto the upcoming running back class we go, where there seems to be no consensus #1. A bunch of nice traits scattered across a handful of players, but it's hard to really get even a consistent top three across many national boards.
On top of the parity, there's probably not a first round talent among the bunch. Some freaky attributes and good production, but no surefire, well-rounded guys. Sometimes these are the hidden gem kind of drafts though for a position.
In no particular order, here's 7 of the top names in the backfield to keep a lookout for come April 28th*
Trey Benson (Florida State): Many were hoping the Seminole would build upon his 2022 numbers (94 carries for 990 yards), but the junior plateaued a bit, putting up 85 less yards on 2 more totes. Losing starting quarterback Jordan Travis surely didn't facilitate a strong finish, but slightly disappointing nonetheless. Benson's fast but lacks that real second level burst. Very patient while waiting for initial cut, with sharp cuts in tight space-- good vision overall. Won't be arm tackled, adequate pass catcher/protector that can remain on the field all three downs. Runs tall.
Jaylen Wright (Tennessee): Fiery kid, clearly a competitor on the field. Wright accelerates through the hole with authority and reaches impressive speed quickly. Doesn't radiate agility, especially once in open space, profiling more of as a straight line burner. As a result, he misses cutback opportunities that many NFL offenses like to incorporate. Some work as a receiver, good pass protector. Had some fumble issues as a sophomore that he cleaned up en route to averaging 7.4 yards per carry this season. Would benefit from adding some muscle this offseason. Projects more as a home run hitting, change of pace guy rather than an every down back.
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| Photo: Brianna Paciorka/ USA Today |
Jonathon Brooks- (Texas): Only was part of the regular backfield rotation for one year; however, being stuck behind Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson will relegate many to such a role. Big kid who runs hard but high. Incredible balance through contact with the ability to hit a second gear. Decisive in his cuts and hard to tackle. Adept receiver, though not asked to pass protect often for the Longhorns. Tore his ACL week 10 vs. Oklahoma State, which will surely be a talking point at the combine. Not a lot of wear on the tires, which can be viewed as a double-edged sword.
Blake Corum (Michigan): So. Much. Usage. Corum was, capably, a bell cow for the Wolverines over these last three seasons, racking up 649 carries over that span-- more than double the career totals of any of the aforementioned backs. That will be absolutely scrutinized by GM's. He's more subtly shifty rather than quick, displaying elite vision and patience. Boasts a stout frame, rarely choosing the wrong hole or going down on first contact. Seems to lack that second gear, with his first gear not being particularly fast. Solid pass catcher, room to improve in the pass blocking. Needed surgery for a full meniscus repair in 2022, which will also be a point to examine. Shoutout St. Frances!
Bucky Irving (Oregon): Fast, shifty, quick in small spaces. He's not afraid to run it up the middle, can catch the ball in the flats and make people miss for huge gains. In a vacuum, Bucky's easily my favorite running back in this class. He's got all the traits you're looking for in a top back. But he's listed at 195 pounds, meaning he's probably ten pounds lighter. His fearless style of play could land him on the IR more often than preferred. But for a team that can properly manage his usage, Irving could be a tremendous weapon.
Audric Estime (Notre Dame): Big and accelerates well through contact. Estime isn't particularly agile, but his playing style doesn't require him to be. Won't be arm tackled yet also loves trying to hurdle defenders-- for better or worse. Not great in pass protection, has some key fumbles on his resume as well. But that can be cleaned up. All considered, he's probably got the highest upside overall in this class, if he can round himself into a three-down back.
Marshawn Lloyd (USC): More fluid than quick, shows burst once he sees daylight. Lloyd rocks a compact frame at 5'9", 220, with good vision and patience-- almost to his detriment at times. Not a great pass blocker, although not for lack of effort. Displayed really intriguing pass catching ability in limited opportunities. Lacks the leg drive to break a ton of tackles but seems to always fall forward. Well-rounded running back.
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@Choppinglines
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