NFL Running Back Rankings for 2021: Derrick Henry stiff-arms competition
By Randy Gurzi
18. James Robinson, Jacksonville Jaguars
When the Jacksonville Jaguars released Leonard Fournette ahead of the 2020 season, they were admitting they over-drafted him when they took him at No. 4 overall in 2017. As fate would have it, he was replaced by a guy who wasn’t even drafted at all and the running game was even better.
James Robinson from Illinois State went for 1,070 yards on the ground and another 344 receiving. He scored 10 total touchdowns and even with Travis Etienne on the roster, he should be the starter in 2021. He’s not one of the elite players in the game but he’s more than able to move the chains.
17. Melvin Gordon III, Denver Broncos
After five seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, Melvin Gordon joined an AFC West rival, signing with the Denver Broncos. Despite there being a crowded backfield, Gordon was able to get the majority of the starts and had 986 yards with nine touchdowns.
He added another 158 yards and a touchdown on 32 receptions. He enters 2021 still in line to start but he has some competition with Javonte Williams being added in the 2021 NFL Draft. There’s also still Royce Freeman as well, meaning the Broncos continue to have a crowded backfield.