Top 12 RB Prospects in the NFL Draft

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Jan 25, 2008

Top 12 RB Prospects in the NFL Draft

Darren McFadden

Given his tremendous combination of size, speed, power and instincts, he's the premiere player in April's draft and will justifiably be labeled a ''franchise back.''<br><br>Send comments to siwriters@simail.com.

Jonathan Stewart

He's a strong interior runner with surprising speed and the ability to make defenders miss.

Rashard Mendenhall

He showcased his skills on New Year's Day, running roughshod over the talented USC defense. He has the power and skills needed to be a feature runner in the NFL.

Felix Jones

He does not get the same acclaim as his teammate Darren McFadden, yet he is a skilled runner and is likely to be drafted in the late part of round one.

Kevin Smith

This record-setting back reversed course on his initial decision and entered the draft. NFL scouts have a variety of opinions on Smith, who is likely to be drafted in round two.

Jamaal Charles

The Longhorns sprint champion is learning to translate his track and field speed onto the football field. He does not possess a complete game yet, but is solid second-round material.

Ray Rice

He leaves Rutgers as the team's all time rushing leader, just one of almost a dozen school records he holds. His limited size and extensive college workload (Rice carried the ball 910 times in three years for Rutgers) are a concern, yet scouts predict he is good value in round two.

Mike Hart

One of college football's most complete backs, Hart was productive as a ball carrier, pass catcher and blocker at Michigan. He lacks the size and speed to be a feature runner in the NFL but is a solid third-round choice and will fit in as a third-down back.

Chris Johnson

He is a blazer with home-run hitting speed at running back and in the return game. He needs polish on his skills but could end up a bargain in round three.

Tashard Choice

He is one of the most underrated backs in April's draft and a well-built interior runner who also beats opponents around the corner. His injury history will send up red flags and push him out of the top 75 choices.

Steve Slaton

He capped a disappointing junior campaign with an equally disappointing decision to enter the draft. He was considered the next Reggie Bush at one time, but is now considered a second day draft choice.

Matt Forte

Forte is one of the better sleepers in the running back class this April. He comes off a career senior campaign and offers the size and speed to start in the NFL.<br><br>Send comments to siwriters@simail.com.