NFL Draft 2018: Top 5 playmaking running backs
There is a large disparity between Saquon Barkley and the rest of the 2018 NFL Draft class’ running backs, but there is still plenty of talent across the board.
Running backs are becoming more and more valuable in the NFL each year. With recent studs including Ezekiel Elliot, Leonard Fournette and Alvin Kamara who made big impacts as rookies, teams are looking very critically at the running back position entering the 2018 NFL Draft.
What’s more, the 2018 NFL Draft could hold more depth in running back talent than we’ve seen in a long time. There are numerous players that could slot in right away and be playmakers for whichever team selects them.
Here, we look at the top five running backs in this year’s draft class.
Saquon Barkley, Penn State
As the consensus best back in this year’s draft, and possibly the best overall prospect, Saquon Barkley has all the tools to thrive in the NFL. As one of college football’s most exciting players, Barkley produced as a rusher, running back and special teams player for Penn State. With his unique athleticism, teams will use him in a multitude of ways to help their offense produce.
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Derrius Guice, LSU
LSU didn’t lose much talent when Leonard Fournette left school for the NFL Draft. After leading all SEC running backs in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in 2016, Guice followed it up with another great season in 2017. With excellent power, vision and speed, Guice may become one of the best running backs in this draft class.
Rashaad Penny, San Diego State
For three years, Penny ran behind the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher, Donnel Pumphrey. Finally, in 2017, Penny got his chance to shine as the sole running back in the Aztec’s offense — and he did not disappoint. The senior posted 2,248 rushing yards and 23 rushing touchdowns to help him earn fifth in the Heisman voting last year. Penny is a patient runner with good speed and size. With the right progression, he may become a featured, every-down back as a pro.
Sony Michel, Georgia
Even while starting only two games in 2017, Michel ran for 1,227 yards on just 156 touches. The senior captain led the Bulldogs with 16 rushing touchdowns and an incredible 7.9 yards per attempt in 2017. Michel’s ability to impress scouts while serving in a crowded running attack is a testament to his skill set. The Florida native has great acceleration and a second gear that will serve him well in the NFL.
Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Full two-round projection
Nick Chubb, Georgia
As Sony Michel’s partner in crime, Chubb was part of the running back committee that led Georiga to a national title game last season. Starting in all 14 games for the Bulldogs, Chubb finished 2017 with 1,345 yards on the ground, scoring 15 times. The decorated senior is leaving Georgia as the school’s second all-time rush leader. Even while battling injuries, Chubb proved he is one of the most balanced running backs in this year’s class.