Running back is a position that has lost some of its importance at the professional level. As more and more emphasis is placed on the passing game in the NFL, teams are waiting longer and longer to draft even the best college running backs. The 2104 class has some solid ball carriers in it, but it lacks the star power of some past classes. With time still remaining for underclassmen to declare, the focus shifts to the players who will definitely be available in May, the Seniors. Here’s a look at the top five Senior running backs in this draft class.
5. James White, Wisconsin
Teammate Melvin Gordon is the better prospect, but White is no slouch. His size is the biggest thing working against him. At 5’10 and just 195 lbs, questions about his durability will certainly arise. He may not be able to stand up to the punishment of being an every down back. However, he does have skills that will earn him a place on an NFL roster. He has great speed and agility to go with great vision and nice hands. His determination is also evident when he runs, as he is tough to bring down, despite his size.
4. Marion Grice, Arizona State
Grice hasn’t put up impressive yardage numbers in his time with the Sun Devils, but he does have a nose for the endzone, having recorded 39 touchdowns in just two seasons. Again, durability may be a concern because of his upright running style and slim frame, but he has held up well thus far. A versatile back, he can run effectively both inside and out, and he’s a good receiver out of the backfield, which will make him more valuable to NFL teams. His measurables won’t blow anybody away, but he has functional speed and does a terrific job setting up his blocks and maximizing yardage.
3. Charles Sims, West Virginia
One of the most versatile backs in the country, Sims does everything he could be asked to do. At 6’0” and 213 lbs, his size is not a hindrance, and his running style is such that his ability to stay on the field won’t be in question. Like the previous two backs, he’s a very good receiver and a threat in a number of ways. Unlike the previous two guys, he has the ability to be an every down back in the NFL. He doesn’t possess blazing speed, but he accelerates quickly and hits running lanes very quickly. His stock has been on the rise as of late, and with good reason.
2. Andre Williams, Boston College
Williams had a monster season in 2013, rushing for over 2,100 yards and 17 touchdowns. He was a Heisman finalist and Doak Walker award winner as a result. Size is certainly not an issue with the 227 lb star, though, as his size would indicate, speed isn’t his forte. Williams gets going, then bangs and pounds for yardage, breaking a lot of tackles in the process. He wasn’t asked to catch passes, so NFL teams will monitor that, but a team drafting him won’t be doing so for a receiver. He’s also not a great blocker, which may turn some teams off. Williams brings a lot to the NFL, and could interest a team early in the draft.
1. Carlos Hyde, Ohio State
Physically speaking, Hyde has everything an NFL team could want. He’s massive at 6’0” and 235 lbs, yet he’s light on his feet and agile with the ball. However, when needed, he’s certainly powerful enough and is hard to bring down. He doesn’t have electrifying speed, but he’s fast enough, and is a good receiver as well. He projects as an every down back in the NFL and could be one of the first backs taken, depending on which underclassmen declare for the draft. There are character concerns, but in terms of on-field production, Hyde is ready to play on Sundays.