Ranking the 5 strongest position groups in the 2023 NFL Draft
4. Running backs
At first glance, this draft isn’t full of elite top talent at the position, but there is something for everyone. One name stands out above the rest, Bijan Robinson from Texas. Robinson has been turning heads with his impressive on-field ability and outstanding vision, making him one of the most exciting running backs to come out in a while. In fact, some experts believe he is even better than Saquan Barkley, who was considered one of the top running backs of recent years.
Robinson has a rare combination of size, speed, and agility that makes him an absolute nightmare for opposing defenses. He has the power to break tackles and run through defenders, but he also has the finesse to make quick cuts and evade defenders in open space. This combination of strength and agility makes him a dynamic playmaker who can make a big impact on any offense.
While Robinson may be the cream of the crop in this year’s running back class, he won’t be the only back selected in the first round. Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama is another talented running back who could be a game-changer for any team. Gibbs is the type of back that most teams need in terms of his value as a pass-catcher. He is in the same mold as Austin Ekeler, Christian McCaffrey, and Kareem Hunt, and his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield makes him a valuable asset for any offense.
Gibbs is projected to be an early Day 2 prospect, but he could be an absolute steal for any team that gets him. He can make big plays in both the running and passing game, and his speed and agility make him a tough player to bring down in the open field.
Another running back to keep an eye on in the draft is Zach Charbonnet from UCLA. While he may not be the fastest or most explosive running back in the class, Charbonnet has excellent vision and an ability to find the open field. He should hear his name called on Day 2, most likely in the third round.
For those teams looking for pure speed and quickness in their running back, Devon Achane from Texas A&M is the player to watch. He is more like Raheem Mostert but in terms of his abilities. He’s small weighing under 190 pounds and works best as a change of pace back, but he can make defenders miss with ease. He has the speed to break long runs, and his quickness makes him a dangerous weapon in the open field.
As the draft progresses, there will be plenty of talented running backs available for teams to choose from. Among them are Tank Bisby and Roschon Johnson, both of whom have the size, athleticism, and instincts to be potential lead backs in the NFL. Bisby is known for his power and ability to break tackles, while Johnson is praised for his balance and vision. Chris Rodriguez Jr. from Kentucky is another running back to keep an eye on, with his impressive NFL Draft scouting report and ability to make plays on the field. These backs may not go in the early rounds, but they could still be valuable assets to their future NFL teams.