NFL Draft: Who is The Top Running Back?
The NFL has proven to be a cyclical league in terms of scheme development and playstyle. With the recent years of defenses getting smaller to defend the pass, personnel departments have countered by drafting players on the offensive line and backfield primed with physicality.
Who Should be the First Running-back selected in the 2022 NFL Draft?
While the days of placing emphasis on a lead back and leveraging excessive draft capital on the running back position may be behind us, the position is still valuable, and this year's 2022 NFL Draft class has several who can fit the bill in the NFL. While teams may be able to find solid backs in later rounds, here are some of the ball carriers lobbying to be the first running back off the board:
Isaiah Spiller, Texas A&M
The Most Likely
What Makes Spiller the RB1?
Beyond making defenders miss, what keeps a running back in on third down is reliability as a pass protector. Spiller is no slouch here and has stonewalled multiple blitzers while showing adequate skill to chip and recognize rush packages. When describing Spiller's versatility, Anthony Corrente of Sports Illustrated stated: "He has experience both as a receiver and in pass protection which will only help keep him on the field." A strong 40 time could be the final checkmark that places Spiller atop NFL Draft boards.
Breece Hall, Iowa State
High Ceiling + Low Floor
Can the talent level of Hall get him selected as the RB1?
While he doesn't seem to be a pure burner, he has multiple big runs resulting in touchdowns. Some will point to the huge holes created by his offensive line as a crutch for his style, but his missed tackle rate shows otherwise. When describing some of Hall's abilities, Lance Zierlein of the NFL Network said: "His running style is willful when it needs to be, and he's adept at moving the chains on "got to have it" short-yardage carries." Evaluators may covet Hall's ability to create explosive plays combined with his size. Should he prove questions about his athleticism, Hall may be the first back taken in April.
Kenneth Walker III, Michigan State
A Gigantic Riser
After his tremendous season, where does Walker land in running back rankings?
Cole Thompson of Sports Illustrated described Walker's abilities saying: "One of the biggest strengths for Walker is his hands. Last season, he recorded just one fumble on 268 carries. Another key to his overall game is the ability to make defenders miss at the line of scrimmage."
There are some questions regarding his versatility and ability to endure NFL seasons. However, if a team with a strong zone running scheme feels he is the missing piece, there is a chance he comes out above the rest on draft weekend.
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2022 NFL Draft All-Star Game Info
- Reese’s Senior Bowl – February 6th, 2022 (Mobile, AL)
- East-West Shrine Bowl – February 3rd, 2022 (Las Vegas, NV)
- NFLPA Collegiate Bowl – January 29th, 2022 (Pasadena, CA)
- Hula Bowl – January 15th, 2022 (Orlando, FL)
- SPIRAL Tropical Bowl – January 17th, 2022 (Orlando, FL)
- Cajun All-Star Bowl – February 12th, 2022 (Beaumont, TX)
- College Gridiron Showcase – January 8th, 2022 (Fort Worth, TX)
