The 2013 NFL Draft may not be filled with top-tier talent at running back, but it is one of the deepest at this position in a long time. By my estimation, there are about 10 different players here that can come in and be solid contributors in the backfield. 

That said, don't expect any of them to go in the initial round. 

One of the first running backs off the board promises to be Giovani Bernard from North Carolina. This impressive prospect dominated his way through the ACC in 2012, to the tune of over 1,700 total yards and 17 touchdowns. He is as productive as any running back in this class and could be a day-one starter for a team in need. 

Strengths

Pass-Catching Ability: It goes without saying that Bernard possesses the best set of hands of any running back in the draft. He had 92 receptions and six touchdowns in just two seasons at North Carolina. One of his best attributes is being able to give the quarterback a solid passing lane on checkdowns. As you already know, this is important when it comes to the NFL. 

Field Quickness: Bernard might not be the fastest track guy, but he sure the heck has field speed. You can see him change direction on a dime and barely lose traction moving forward. This is one of his best attributes at this point and it is something that really cannot be taught. 

Between the Hashes: While Bernard won't be outrunning defenders on the outside, he has the field vision, cut-back ability and pad level to absolutely dominate between the hashes. I notice that he does a good job letting the play draw itself out, following his blockers and hitting the hole quick. This will translate well in the NFL. 

Running Level: Low center of gravity; yet another huge bonus for any team that picks Bernard up next month. He runs with a lower pad level, recognizes when the contact is going to come and is extremely hard to bring down at initial point of contact. 

Weaknesses

Speed: Bernard will not break long runs on a consistent basis; he just isn't that type of player. He will not get past defensive backs, even when he hits that rare second gear. The team selecting Bernard cannot expect a whole bunch of rush attempts that go for 20-plus yards. 

Brute Strength: Let's not be foolish here. Bernard doesn't have the size or lower-body strength to carry the pile at the line of scrimmage. He will not be able to come in and consistently get first downs on short yardage situations. This hampers his ability to actually be a three-down running back at the next level. Teams with a solid fullback or short-yardage guy will be the best fits for Bernard. 

Bottom Line

There is no doubt in my mind that Bernard will  provide excellent value somewhere in the second or third round. He will be able to come in and be a starting running back from day one in the NFL. Though Bernard's upside isn't as high as say Trent Richardson or Doug Martin from the 2012 draft, he should be able to consistently provide 1,400 total yards and double-digit scores. The only reason he is so low on our rankings is the fact that teams just don't value running backs the way they used to.