2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – No. 32 pick in 2021 NFL Draft
The prioritization of running backs in the NFL Draft by general managers and franchises is a blessing in disguise for college prospects. Running backs are seen as more expendable than other positions because the level of physical punishment they take in the position naturally diminishes their career length.
This perceived slight may damage the egos of young players looking to make their impact on the NFL but, as a whole, it tends to discretely slide them down the draft order every year. This moves them from losing franchises who have earned high picks through poor performance to solid organizations who may only need one or two players to fullfil their roster’s potential.
This is why Harris may end up with a perfect fit for him, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It may sound ridiculous for last year’s Super Bowl-winning team to secure the, most talented running back prospect of the year. But the team fit for Harris would be incredible. The Buccaneers had the joint fourth lowest rushing total in the 2020 season, with 1,519 total yards. For context, their running game was tied with the Jacksonville Jaguars for total yards.
Leonard Fournette acted as the primary running back for this team. He played excellently in the post season and earned a one-year, $4 million extension but his regular season was spotty. The length of his renewal indicates he is not considered the long-term option, mainly due to contract expense.
The Bucs will want their running game to be vastly improved this year. An improved pressure through the middle will allow more space for Tom Brady to exploit while passing. Landing their star running back of the future may basically perfect the offense.