The Shifting Tides of the Running Back Position
The NFL landscape has changed significantly for running backs. The emphasis on passing, accelerated by rule changes designed to boost scoring, has made the passing game more lucrative. Quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends often receive a higher financial premium, creating a trickle-down effect that can influence draft decisions. Also, the running back position, more than others, is susceptible to injuries, and the wear and tear on a workhorse back can be significant. This has led many teams to embrace a multi-back approach, where the workload is shared amongst multiple players. This can limit the value of drafting a running back in the early rounds, as teams can often find capable players later in the draft or even as undrafted free agents.
Furthermore, the increased specialization of offensive schemes means that teams often seek running backs with specific skill sets. Some coaches may prioritize pass-catching ability, while others value power and short-yardage proficiency. This creates a situation where a player might excel in one area but lack the versatility needed for a significant role. As a result, a potentially talented running back might be passed over because he doesn’t fit the exact requirements of a particular team’s offensive system.
This combination of factors leads to the phenomenon we see annually: talented running backs left in the draft, waiting for the opportunity to prove themselves at the professional level.
Potential Reasons for the Remaining Players
Why do these talented players slip through the cracks? Several factors can contribute to a running back’s availability in the later rounds or even beyond the draft entirely.
One significant consideration is size and athleticism. The NFL is a league dominated by physical specimens, and teams are looking for players with specific measurable traits. A running back must have a combination of speed, power, and agility. Some backs may possess impressive speed but lack the strength to break tackles. Others may be powerful runners but lack the agility to make quick cuts or the breakaway speed to take it to the house. If a player’s physical profile doesn’t meet the standards, they may be passed over.
Another critical factor is injury history. Running backs endure significant physical punishment, and teams are naturally wary of players with a history of injuries. A recurring injury can significantly impact a player’s longevity and effectiveness, and teams may understandably be hesitant to invest a draft pick in a player with a questionable medical record.
Scheme fit is another important element. Not every running back is a good fit for every offensive system. Some backs thrive in a power-running scheme, relying on the ability to run between the tackles and gain tough yards. Others are better suited for a zone-blocking scheme, where they can use their vision and agility to find cutback lanes and make quick decisions. If a player’s skill set doesn’t align with a team’s offensive philosophy, they may be viewed as less valuable.
Finally, college production is a critical indicator, but it’s not always the definitive measure. While dominant statistics can certainly raise a player’s draft stock, they aren’t the only factor. The quality of competition, the offensive system, and the supporting cast can all influence a player’s college stats. A player who thrived against weaker competition may struggle against the superior athletes and more complex defenses in the NFL. Teams evaluate the player’s skills and potential as well as their raw numbers.
Understanding these factors is crucial to evaluating the running backs left in the draft. A player may be available due to one or more of these reasons, but that doesn’t mean they lack NFL potential.
Examining the Remaining Talent: Identifying Potential Value
Here, we’ll spotlight some of the more intriguing running backs left in the draft, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and potential fits. Please note that exact draft order can fluctuate and this analysis is based on general expectations.
Player A
Excellent contact balance, the ability to break tackles, good pass-catching skills, and reliable pass protection. He has shown the ability to carry a heavy workload and is very durable.
Doesn’t possess elite breakaway speed, and his receiving skills, while adequate, are not exceptional.
A potential early-down workhorse, with the capacity to become a three-down back. He could excel as a goal-line back.
A team looking for a dependable runner who can be a focal point of the offense, like a team needing a starting-caliber back.
Player B
Elite speed, excellent vision, a knack for finding running lanes, and a demonstrated ability to make defenders miss.
Smaller build, and needs to add strength to become a consistent pass protector. His college competition was not as high as others.
A change-of-pace back, with the potential to be a big-play threat. He will likely become a receiving threat in the passing game.
Teams that value speed and receiving ability, that could use him in a specialized role.
Player C
Unmatched strength, hard to tackle, exceptional short-yardage ability, good pass blocker.
Lacks top-end speed, and not a prolific pass catcher.
Goal-line specialist and short-yardage back, can provide a physical presence.
Teams seeking a punishing runner for inside runs.
Player D
Excellent hands, good route running, and a decent runner. Capable of being a dual threat out of the backfield, excellent field awareness.
Not a power runner, needs to improve at pass protection.
Receiving back and change-of-pace runner with an emphasis on passing.
Teams that utilize their running backs in the passing game.
These are just a few examples. Numerous other talented running backs left in the draft have the potential to contribute to NFL teams, especially in a system that allows them to thrive.
The Undrafted Free Agents: The Long Shot with Value
The draft isn’t the only place where teams find running back talent. The pool of undrafted free agents (UDFAs) offers another avenue for teams to unearth hidden gems. Some of the most successful running backs in NFL history, including many hall of famers, weren’t drafted at all.
UDFAs are players who weren’t selected in the draft but are still eligible to sign with NFL teams. Teams are constantly looking for value, and sometimes, a player with untapped potential falls through the cracks. These players often have a chip on their shoulder and are highly motivated to prove themselves. They are given an opportunity to compete for a roster spot during training camp.
Several UDFA success stories showcase the potential that exists. Successful players have come from all levels of college football and have found a way to make an impact in the NFL. UDFA prospects are often overlooked due to a variety of reasons: lack of athleticism, undersized, injury history, or simply because they were from small schools with minimal recognition. However, their determination and raw talent can often outweigh the negative factors.
The key to successful UDFA signings is identifying players with the right combination of talent, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. These players often have specific skills or traits that can translate to success at the NFL level. While the chances of an undrafted player becoming a superstar are slim, they can still be valuable contributors.
Impact on Draft and Free Agency
The presence of talented running backs left in the draft affects the overall strategy of NFL teams. Teams that don’t address the position early may choose to wait and target the remaining prospects in later rounds, using their remaining picks to add depth or address other needs. This can create value as some of these players, who may have been drafted earlier in different draft classes, are selected late.
In free agency, teams can find value in acquiring free agents. This can be used to fill roster spots, or provide depth to the team. Teams might also choose to sign undrafted free agents, providing a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. The value of these players, however, will depend on several things, including the quality of the players, their physical condition, their injury history, and their ability to compete.
Conclusion: Scouting the Remaining Backs
The running backs left in the draft represent a range of talents and potential contributors. Some of them are talented players who may be able to get selected in the later rounds, while others will likely wait for a call to sign with a team as undrafted free agents. Regardless of their path, these players all have the opportunity to make an impact at the NFL level.
The key for teams is to identify the players whose skill sets fit their offensive schemes and whose talent overcomes the concerns that may have prevented them from being drafted earlier. For fans, these players present an opportunity to root for the underdog, to follow their progress, and to potentially witness the emergence of the next hidden gem. The NFL draft is more than just selecting the most elite talent; it’s about finding value, recognizing potential, and building a team for sustained success. Identifying these players and following their careers as they compete for a roster spot is one of the most exciting aspects of the NFL season.
