Riggo’s Rag quarter-season draft prospects position rankings
Running Backs
Honorable Mention – Benny Snell – Kentucky
The heart and soul of the Kentucky football team, Snell is an old-school downhill runner. He has excellent vision and contact balance which leads to him to finds yards on runs that should’ve been stopped in the backfield. He doesn’t have much production as a receiver but he does have the ability to catch the ball, and he’s also a willing and able pass protector. Snell’s biggest weakness if that he lacks top end speed, in the NFL he’ll need to be paired a change of pace back to reach his full potential. However, Snell will be a great NFL back making his mark on goal-line scenarios, and late games battles where time management is key.
No. 5 – Myles Gaskin – Washington
Gaskin was one of my favorite late round sleepers in last years draft class, since he returned he’s done nothing but raise his draft stock. He’s had a good start to the season, and this years draft calls is dismal compared to last years stacked group. Gaskin can immediately make an impact as a 3rd down specialist, while also working a complimentary piece in the run game. He has excellent body control and finds a way to bounce of tackles and stay upright despite his small frame.
No. 4 – Rodney Anderson – Oklahoma
If Anderson had never gotten injured, he’d probably be RB1. Unfortunately, Anderson’s year was cut short for the third time in his career. He’s a great blend of size and speed, he’s electric with good vision and there really ins’t anything negative to say about his play on the field. However, I’m very adamant the the best ability is availability, and if Anderson can’t get on the field, he can’t showcase his talents.
No. 3 – David Montgomery – Iowa St.
Naturally bouncing off tackles, Montgomery has a rare knack of staying off the ground and always picking up extra yards. He’s not particularly big, but is built compactly enough to pack a bunch. Excellent open field vision is complemented by active feet and convincing head fakes. Has some value as a three-down back but has unnatural hands when asked to catch the balls, willing and capable pass protector.
No. 2 – Damien Harris – Alabama
The best all around skill-set in this years class belongs to Damien Harris. He brings excellent vision, runs with power, and has some shake to his game while also containing some breakaway speed. Harris also comes in with minimal tread on the his legs thanks in part to Alabama’s regular season dominance leading Harris to only be needed for the first quarter or so. My biggest knock is the lack of an elite second gear, he can run past some guys but won’t be a threat to go the distance on every play.
No. 1 – Bryce Love – Stanford
Bryce Love is an elite breakaway threat. Love has an off-putting injury history, but when he’s healthy, man, is he good. He’s a legit threat to score everytime he touches the ball. He projects as a change of pace back in the NFL, but I think he can be just as good as Alvin Kamara was for the Saints. Love isn’t as good a receiver, but has better vision and toughness in between the tackles. Teams like the Jaguars would be a great fit, as Love would provide a great contrast to Leonard Fournette while also bringing another scoring threat to the offense.