Top 5 Landing Spots for top Running Back Prospects
“I’m going to have a tough time sleeping if Saquon goes to Philadelphia, I’ll tell you that,” is what New York Giants owner John Mara said shortly before hearing the news about his top star leaving for Division Rival. It clearly showed a large impact this past season in their struggling running game. With the apparent resurgence in having an elite back in the NFL, this years class will bode well for teams finding their new offensive weapon.
Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders will most likely go QB with the 6th pick in the first round, but had a struggling run game all year long with the absence of Josh Jacobs, who exceeded expectations in Green Bay. If they can land a running back like Kaleb Johnson out of Iowa or Ohio State’s Quinshon Judkins in the second round or trade up to get them in late 1st round would greatly improve that offense even in the absence of a top WR.
The San Francisco 49ers hold the 11th pick in this years draft, and have a large question mark at RB with the injury situations to Christian McCaffrey. Needing help on their aging defense is most likely a top priority, however, after trading away an asset like Deebo to the Commanders, they need a lot of help in the run game. Landing a player Omarion Hampton from North Carolina would boost the offensive production. He shows signs of flash and has good hands in the pass game. His large frame and quick burst is exactly what that team needs.
The Dallas Cowboys will be in the market for a large, bruising back to compliment the lengthy, quick receivers on the outside. Ashton Jeanty from Boise State would be an incredible pickup for that offense. With the exit of Zeke, and the lack of production from Dowdle, Jeanty will be the answer for them at running back.
Pittsburgh Steelers hold the 21st pick in this years draft, however, I could see them trading up to secure some other needs on the board such as offensive line or defensive back. If they choose to draft a running back right out of the gate, it will most likely be a player like TreVeyon Henderson from Ohio State or Dylan Sampson from Tennessee. Having a quick back that can catch from the backfield has always been the Steelers mantra throughout the years.
The final team that needs a running back on this list is the Minnesota Vikings. Ever since the departure of Dalvin Cook the Vikings have been searching for the next big deal. Then came along Aaron Jones, the only problem is, he turns 31 during next season and only signed a 1-year deal. Even if Aaron goes back to the Twin Cities, the team still needs a back to compliment him. Ty Chandler shows flashes here and there, but I am not sure he is the answer. Drafting a player like Omarion Hampton or Kaleb Johnson should be high on their priority to secure a skill player for the future. Even though they need defensive back help.
Evan Kunkel from Marcus, Iowa. Currently enrolled in the GM and Scouting course with Sports Management Worldwide. Car Sales Professional by day, father of 3 and husband of 1. Sports lover, played football and drove demolition derby cars for 13 years.