noti.group’s Ryan Dunleavy gives his top 10 running backs in this year’s NFL draft, based on evaluations and conversations with people around the league:
1. Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame, 6-0, 212
Do-it-all three-down back who could be the draft’s best player. Explodes through the hole or quickly gets to the edge. More than a checkdown receiver as seen in wheel routes. Eight 20-plus-yard gains last season. Sticks his nose in a blitzer’s chest.
2. Jadarian Price, Notre Dame, 5-11, 203
Only 295 touches in three seasons behind Love, so plenty of tread left on the tires. Sets up blocks with patience — or too much dancing? Displayed contact balance to force missed tackles. Three kickoff return touchdowns. Not a receiving option.
3. Mike Washington Jr., Arkansas, 6-1, 223
Ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash that is tied for fastest over the past 20 NFL combines for players weighing at least 220 pounds, per ESPN. Averaged 6.4 yards per carry last season. Physical runner who contributes to the passing game.
[Notigroup Newsroom in collaboration with other media outlets, with information from the following sources]
