Melvin Gordon: Leading rookie rushing title contenders
By Luke Sims
Oct 23, 2014; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Miami Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson (8) runs for a touchdown as Virginia Tech Hokies defensive tackle Nigel Williams (95) and linebacker Derek Di Nardo (41) defend in the second quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
4) Duke Johnson, running back, Cleveland Browns
Duke Johnson was the sixth running back taken in the 2015 NFL Draft. Coming in far behind talents like Melvin Gordon and sneaking in behind Tevin Coleman in the third round, Johnson has a ton of upside.
Not really “getting going” until his third season with the Miami Hurricanes, Johnson exploded in 2014 for 1652 yards, capping off a collegiate career that saw him amass 3519 yards in just three seasons. He emerged from Miami from under the shadow of some impressive running backs who have gone on to have stellar NFL careers.
His impressive production has seemingly translated over to the NFL. The small-sized running back has high expectations placed upon him and will be expected to produce for the Cleveland Browns.
In my opinion, the Browns received the best value at running back in the 2015 NFL Draft. But his NFL career has gotten off to a rocky start due to injury.
That said, there is plenty of upside for Johnson and as the second-option in a Browns offense that never seems to get it right at quarterback, giving him plenty of chances to shine. He has the skill to outplay Isaiah Cromwell.
The big question is whether Johnson can stay healthy enough to do it consistently and get the nod to be the feature back.
Next: The first running back off the board coming in as the last title contender