Detroit Lions: 5 Targets in 2020 NFL Draft to put them on the right track

5. James Robinson, RB, Illinois State

At the Senior Bowl, there were more than a few small-school prospects who proved they belonged; James Robinson was one of them. His Senior Bowl performance and college production are indicative of his ability to continue to improve.

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Robinson’s stats climbed each yeah while at Illinois State. As a sophomore, he rushed for 902 yards, followed by 1,290 as a junior. The 2019 season saw him dominate on the ground with 1,917 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns.

For the Lions, Robinson can help take the load off Kerryon Johnson, especially on early downs; the relief should help Johnson stay healthy. The 5-9, 220-pound Robinson has the perfect size and skillset for offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell’s scheme.

He’s a patient runner with good vision who rides the backs of his offensive lineman. He runs tough with a move-set and enough power to slip off or run through tacklers.

The former Illinois State back also has great contact balance and scrappy when fighting for extra yards. Although he hasn’t seen a ton of receiving production, he does have natural hands; he could stay on the field on third downs.

Robinson is an early-down grind-it-out back who could bring toughness to the Lions. With his status as a small-school prospect and the devaluation of running backs, Robinson looks like a sleeper on Day 3. However, he is a prospect that can develop into an every-down back for the Lions after a positive rookie season.