Running Back Rankings – Which Rookies Should You Draft?

Running Back Rankings

If you’re following the zero-RB strategy, you need to consider running back rankings as you select your rookies. Unless you’re willing to gamble on Ezekiel Elliott in the fourth round, it’s best to go with a player with more upside. However, any of these options could fall out of favor before October. So which RBs should you choose? Read on to find out! And don’t forget to check out the rest of our articles on running backs.

While James Cook was an excellent college prospect, there’s more to him than just his size. White was one of the top high school Running back rankings in the country when the draft was announced. Despite that, he tore his ACL his freshman year and has since been listed as a second round rookie. However, he’s still worth monitoring. Ultimately, the decision to take him will likely depend on what the team needs in a backfield.

While most college running backs will be drafted on the strength of their size and speed, some players may lack the necessary size and athleticism to play at the next level. Andrew Wilbar, for example, has the size and strength to play the role of a top-notch NFL back. His speed, vision, and play strength are solid, and he’s likely to break tackles. If he can stay healthy, he’ll be one of the best options for teams looking to add a top-end running back to their roster.

Running Back Rankings – Which Rookies Should You Draft?

Zonovan “Bam” Knight is arguably the best running back in the class. He also has special teams skills and was the FBS’s leading kickoff returner in 2021. Knight has three touchdowns on returns and a 100-yard run. His only deficiency is shoulder surgery, but his athleticism is sound, and his vision is excellent. He also has a high vertical jump and good burst.

Hall was an elite college player for the Cyclones and he’s one of the best young running backs in the draft. While he has a low draft projection, he could still make the roster if he can stick around. Unlike Hall, Allgeier has a lower projection than the top running backs in previous drafts. That’s not to say Hall’s a bad player, however.

Cook and Williams rank fourth and fifth, respectively. Both are solid college backs, but are slightly undersized. Duke Johnson is a more reliable fantasy play, and they’re both underrated by Scouts Inc. in their running back rankings. However, neither are the top running backs in the draft. But if you’re looking for a long-term fantasy play, Duke Johnson or DeMarco Murray are a solid choice.

Ingram is another running back to consider. He could have entered the 2021 NFL Draft, but transferred to USC for his senior year. He’s a physical force and has a sub-4.4 40-yard time at the combine. His elusiveness and power will likely translate to a mid-round value. If Ingram shows some receiver potential at the combine, he could rise to the top of running back rankings.