NFL mock draft: Ranking the top 5 running backs

The running back's importance has diminished steadily in the modern NFL. Thanks to the advancement of statistical analysis, evaluators are increasingly realizing the weighted value of passing, relative to rushing.

Teams giving large contracts to star running backs find themselves increasingly in difficult contract situations soon after the ink dries. When evaluating the top five draft-eligible running backs, it is important to keep in mind two skills that are becoming more critical to success—pass catching and pass blocking.

5. Clyde Edwards-Helaire (LSU)

Edwards-Helaire runs powerfully, but he showed plenty of willingness to catch balls out of the backfield, with 55 receptions in 2019. He makes quick cuts to lose linebackers in coverage and is fast and shifty enough to contribute on special teams.

4. Cam Akers (Florida State)

FSU's offensive line has been a disaster for several years and in 2018 it graded as the worst in the country. Akers was the No. 1 recruit in the country and managed to still find some success throughout his collegiate career, despite the lack of help in front.

He can run with great vision and had 30 receptions in 2019. Akers is a leader with tremendous work ethic and can contribute immediately. He is by far the most underrated prospect in this year’s running back class.

3. J.K. Dobbins (Ohio State)

Dobbins averaged 6.7 yards per carry in 2019, and added 23 receptions for 247 yards through the air. His quick burst is an plus at the NFL level, and he showed great vision in 2019, with more chunk plays than any other back in the country. He will naturally inspire comparisons to former Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliott.

2. Jonathan Taylor (Wisconsin)

This list is full of athletic freaks, but with pads on nobody is more impressive than Taylor. With good speed, tremendous strength, and a stiff arm and leg drive that made him a nightmare to bring down, Taylor plays like an elite running back should.

In 2019 he showed he is a threat through the air, as well, with 26 catches for 252 yards and five touchdowns. The issue with Taylor is he has the worst receiving and pass-blocking background of those on this list, but he should be given the opportunity to improve upon his 2019 growth.

1. De’Andre Swift (Georgia)

Swift is described as a back with soft hands, and in Georgia’s offense he was also called upon to pass block, as well. Considering the success Georgia running backs have had around the NFL in recent years (Todd Gurley, Sony Michel, and Nick Chubb), Swift seems likely to be the next in line.

Swift’s vision and speed to the hole make him a fun player to watch in the open field. He should test well at the NFL Combine to prove the physical attributes that are clearly visible on film, and while Dobbins and Akers both offer comparable skill sets, Swift seems the surer pick to be the first running back off the board.

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