5 running backs the Commanders could select in the 2023 NFL Draft

Commanders could draft Eric Gray

If the Washington Commanders want a prospect that can do a little bit of everything, then Eric Gray represents a decent late-round option. His production over a four-year stint with Tennessee and Oklahoma resulted in encouraging growth, with his output in 2022 representing the best of the bunch by a considerable margin to grab the attention of league scouts.

Gray accumulated 1,595 all-purpose yards and 11 combined touchdowns last season. He is a violent runner that absorbs contact well despite his size, which will come into use once the running back gets his chance against more imposing defenders at the next level.

There’s also plenty of burst, elusiveness, and speed that Gray has in his favor. The prospect works exceptionally well in open space, making people miss with ease and demonstrating a willingness to finish off runs with supreme aggression.

From a pass-catching standpoint, Gray’s highlight reel is littered with huge gains from designed screens. Providing the Commanders’ offensive line lives up to their end of the bargain, this could work well within Eric Bieniemy’s system.

Once Gray develops his route tree, this represents a nice option on Day 3 for Washington. If the Commanders wait until this stage of the 2023 NFL Draft, there are far worse avenues to go down.