The top 5 underrated rookie running backs to watch for in 2015
By Daniel
Dec 31, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Jay Ajayi (27) celebrates following the game against the Arizona Wildcats in the 2014 Fiesta Bowl at Phoenix Stadium. The Broncos defeated the Wildcats 38-30. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
2. Jay Ajayi, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins’ fifth-round selection of running back Jay Ajayi was one of my favorite picks of the entire 2015 NFL draft. In my opinion, he shouldn’t have lasted until the fifth-round of the draft, but his off-the-field issues may have caused some teams to approach with caution, although that appears to be behind him. In 2013, he ran for 1,425 yards and caught 22 passes for 222 yards and then in 2014 he took it to a new level. He rushed for 1,823 yards and caught 50 passes for 535 yards. If that isn’t incredible enough, he scored 47 total touchdowns over that two-year span.
Clearly, Ajayi is no stranger to production and he should be a threat both rushing and catching the ball for the Dolphins. He has the size, strength and durability to become an every down rusher. Although he isn’t just a bruising back; often times Ajayi used his athleticism and agility to find the end zone for the Boise State Broncos.
There are a slew of talented running backs ahead of Ajayi on the Dolphins’ depth chart, including a burgeoning star in Lamar Miller, but I believe that Ajayi’s skill and tenacity will enable him to see the field in 2015. He’s still a bit raw of a prospect, but if the Dolphins can harness his skill he’ll be quite the threat for years to come.
Next: A rookie RB in the NFC North