The Running Backs had a pretty good showing in the combine this year. After watching all of the players run their 40's and do their drills, it's a pretty deep running backs class. This draft class will fill the need of many NFL teams of a quality running back in that position. With the recent drought, it is nice to finally see the college running back make a splash in the big leagues. The need for a big, fast back with catching ability and pass blocking skills is at an all-time high. Other than what I'm calling the big three; Fornette, Cook, and McCaffrey, there are still many more that will be quality starters in the NFL.
These running backs are my favorites to grab after the big three get drafted.
Samaje Perine
Samaje Perine with a 4.66 40 time a day after benching 225 30 times. #Sooners #NFLCombine pic.twitter.com/l4uwYeHjU6
— Derek Peterson (@DrPetey15) March 3, 2017
He got some flak for his 40 times at the combine but it doesn't really bother me. The man is one of the biggest running backs at 5'11" 233. He has great size for the NFL. Showing his ability at pass blocking will make him a starter right away in the NFL. This man did 30 reps at the combine of 225 pounds. Before the combine, there was actually talk from teammates that this guy could do 100.
James Conner
James Conner battled back from cancer to have a very productive, eye-opening senior season at the running back position.
The illness made him sit out most of his junior season. He is a pretty big prototypical back by NFL standards. Conner's 40 time is ok for being 233 lbs with a 4.65 but if he could have crept under a 4.6 it would have helped his draft stock significantly. James will be a pretty good back in the NFL for a long time, I think. He is never going to wow anyone but he will play well consistently.
— James Conner (@JamesConner_) January 22, 2017
T.J. Logan
How explosive is T.J. Logan? You won't catch him in the open field.#NFLCombine pic.twitter.com/PxzOUN5JG3
— ACC Digital Network (@theACCDN) March 3, 2017
Here is your fastest of the running backs coming out of the draft with a 4.37 40. If he can improve his hands, he will be a great 3rd down running back.
At 5'9" and 196 lbs he has the size to run. This guy is going to be a great return man on day one which should put him on a team for the long haul. Skilled position players are abundant in this draft and should produce some fun rookies this year.
