The 2020 NFL Draft is upon us! Below is a list of the top running backs of the 2020 draft class. While it is hard to project where running backs will land (especially during this specific draft), we’ll dive in and throw out a few landing spots along with some NFL comparisons.
D’Andre Swift – Georgia
Swift is just that (actually, he’s ALL that). He is explosive, yet patient. He is agile and knows how to make the correct reads. He’ll be able to immediately contribute as a pass-catcher but needs to work a little bit on his pass protection vision. There most likely won’t be any running backs drafted in the first round this year, but Swift is projected to be the first of his position to come off the board. There have been talks that the Chiefs may be interested at No. 32, but the Ravens and Dolphins also stick out as potential landing spots. NFL comparisons include Vikings running back Dalvin Cook, as well as former Georgia products Todd Gurley, Sony Michel, and Nick Chubb.
Jonathan Taylor – Wisconsin
After an historical junior season, Wisconsin’s Jonathan Taylor became a more patient runner while also improving his pass-catching ability to be able to stand out at the NFL level. In three seasons behind a rock-solid Badger offensive line, Taylor averaged 300 carries, 2,000 rushing yards, and 16 touchdowns. While these are monstrous numbers in the college game, durability does raise some concern at the next level. It’s a small concern, but we have seen a recent decline in the position due to injury (Todd Gurley, David Johnson). Taylor leaves college as one of the most accomplished players at the position in history and has the talent to be successful immediately. The Wisconsin product will most likely be available in the early part of the second round, but I wouldn’t assume he’ll be available much longer than the 50th pick. The best NFL comparison seems to be Lev Bell, as their playmaking ability in both the run and pass game is similar.
J.K. Dobbins – Ohio State
Dobbins shined during his senior season. He was unstoppable at Ohio State, which led to the second-most rushing yards all-time by a Buckeye. His lateral quickness and contact balance are off the charts. Ohio State’s offensive schemes should allow Dobbins to transition seamlessly to the NFL product. While I don’t think he gets drafted before Taylor, Dobbins should be the third back taken off the board in the second round.
Honorable Mentions
Zack Moss – Utah
Clyde Edwards-Helaire – LSU
Cam Akers – Florida State
Running Back Draft Odds via BetOnline.ag
D’Andre Swift -160
Jonathan Taylor +210
JK Dobbins +650
Field +800
