The 2020 NFL Draft has a strong class of running backs who took center stage Friday night at the NFL Combine.
The running back position has slowly lost its value in the NFL Draft, with the prevailing theory being that it’s better to wait until Day 2 or later to select one than spend a first-round pick on a position that’s relatively easy to find production. But after Friday’s night’s impressive performances, NFL teams in need of a boost to their running game have to at least consider a few of this year’s prospects in the top 32.
Here are the target numbers each running back was shooting for (and remember: these numbers represent a minimum requirement):
40-yard dash: 4.55
Bench press: 20 reps (225 pounds)
Vertical jump: 36 inches
Broad jump: 9 ft, 9 inches
Short shuttle: 4.10
3-cone: 7.10
With that in mind, here are four running backs who helped their case to be an early-round pick in the 2020 NFL draft.
Jonathan Taylor, Wisconsin
Despite having one of the most productive careers of any running back in college football history, Taylor began the 2020 draft process as a prospect who didn’t generate much excitement from draft analysts. It’s been a confusing phenomenon considering his film confirms he possesses a high-end starter’s skill set for the NFL.
His performance at the 2020 NFL Combine did more than just reinforce his tape; it announced his arrival as potentially the top running back in the class.
Taylor ran a 4.39 40-yard dash at 5-10, 226 pounds. Not only can he bang the rock between the tackles, but he can flip the field too. It’s a lethal combination that explains how he managed to string together back-to-back 2,000-yard rushing seasons at Wisconsin.
Taylor is a Day-1 starter in the NFL and assuming he lands with a team that has at least a competent offensive line, he’ll be the kind of rookie who can challenge for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
