Madden 19: 7 Rookies who deserved more rankings love

4. Rahsaad Penny, RB, Seattle Seahawks 

There’s no discrepancy with the overall ratings Madden 19 gave to running backs: Saquon Barkley (82), Derrius Guice (78), Ronald Jones II (77), Sony Michel (77) and Nick Chubb (76). The problem is, Seattle Seahawks rookie Rashaad Penny’s name is missing, and he deserves to be at least tied for fifth. 

Penny is probabaly used to getting disrespected by now. He was an afterthought on most draft sites, often being left off their top five list. Despite some analysts projecting Penny as a second-round pick, the Seattle Seahawks took him at No. 27. Penny was a first-rounder because he was the most dominant running back in all of college football.

At San Diego State, Penny led the NCAA with 2,248 yards and finished second with 23 rushing touchdowns. The 5-11, 220-pound has great quickness and showed off his speed at the Combine (4.46-second 40). He’s been praised by scouts for his hard running style, quickness, durability, hands and route running — a complete back.

Suggested Overall Rating: 77

3. Kerryon Johnson, RB, Detroit Lions

One thing that scouts blast when evaluating running backs is bouncing runs outside. Kerryon Johnson wasn’t afforded that opportunity in Gus Malzahn’s offense at Auburn. Because of Malzahn’s schemes, Johnson ran dives and power between the tackles. In fact, Johnson runs with sheer ferocity and power through the gaps. His 6-0, 213-pound frame makes him the hammer when finishing runs.

He’s not just a power runner though, also showing elusiveness and explosiveness. He’s an ideal fit for this pass happy NFL because he has value as a third-down back. Moreover, his talents allowed him to dominate college footballs’ toughest conference, the SEC. Over the course of two seasons, Johnson showed he’s a touchdown magnet, totaling 29 scores with 2,286 yards combined in 2016-17.

Suggested Overall Rating: 76