The examination of the 2024 NFL Draft continues in the “Triple Take” as the focus shifts to analyzing the running backs. Matt Williamson, Dale Lolley, and Mike Prisuta from the Steelers Radio Network share their individual perspectives on the top prospects in the running back position.
It is important to note that the opinions expressed by these personalities from the Steelers Radio Network are independent and do not necessarily align with the views of the Steelers organization.
Dale’s Take …
The 2023 NFL Draft saw two running backs selected in the first round. However, this year’s draft is not expected to see a running back taken until the middle of the second round or later. While there are intriguing running backs available, most of them are considered complementary backs who thrive in a committee system.
One sleeper to keep an eye on is Cody Schrader from Missouri. Standing at 5-8 ½ and weighing 202 lbs, Schrader initially played at Division II Truman State before walking on at Missouri. In his two seasons with the Tigers, he accumulated 2,372 rushing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 41 receptions. Schrader’s style suits teams that employ an outside zone scheme, as his height allows him to hide behind blockers before making decisive cuts. While he may not become a featured back, he has the potential to be a valuable part of a committee.
Ranked at number 5 is Braelon Allen from Wisconsin, measuring 6-1 and weighing 235 lbs. Allen possesses rare power and the ability to overpower smaller defenders. He amassed nearly 3,500 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns in three seasons at Wisconsin, and he just turned 20 in January. Although he was not extensively used as a receiver in college, Allen has accumulated significant playing time at a young age, leaving room for further development.
Jonathan Brooks from Texas ranks at number 4. Standing at 6-1 and weighing 216 lbs, Brooks would be the top back in this draft if not for a recent ACL injury. He aspires to be ready in time for training camp after rushing for over 1,100 yards and recording 25 catches for 286 yards in 11 games last season. Despite serving as a backup to Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson in 2022, Brooks showcases smoothness, speed, size, and burst.
Jaylen Wright from Tennessee claims the number 3 spot. Measuring 5-10 ½ and weighing 210 lbs, Wright possesses incredible speed, evident from his impressive 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. He averaged 7.4 yards per carry last season, although there are concerns about his suitability as an every-down runner in the NFL. Nevertheless, in the modern committee-based approach to running backs, Wright can serve as a dynamic complement to another player.
At number 2 is Trey Benson from Florida State, who stands at 6-0 and weighs 216 lbs. Benson boasts good size and speed, making him a valuable addition to any team’s backfield. He showcased his speed with a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine and exhibits strong receiving skills. While he is willing in pass protection, he could benefit from improvement in that area. Benson had consistent production with just over 150 carries and nearly 1,000 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons, and he has the potential to be even more productive at the professional level.
Topping the list is Marshawn Lloyd from USC, measuring 5-9 and weighing 220 lbs. Lloyd is a well-built runner with impressive burst. After transferring from South Carolina to USC in 2023, he needed only 116 carries to accumulate 820 rushing yards last season. Lloyd’s speed was evident with a 4.46-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, and he has shown flashes of potential throughout his college career. Despite battling injuries, including an ACL injury in 2020, Lloyd’s best performances may still lie ahead.
Matt’s Take …
According to evaluations, the running back class in the 2023 NFL Draft is not particularly strong. It is unlikely that any running backs will be selected in the first round, and even in the top 50 picks. However, there are some promising players in this group who have the potential to become future starters or contribute significantly in the coming years. NFL teams might find the third and fourth rounds to be the best opportunity to acquire running back talent.
One sleeper to watch out for is Dylan Laube from New Hampshire. He excelled in college against lower-level competition and also impressed at the Senior Bowl. While he may not have the size and power to handle a high volume of inside running in the NFL, Laube could excel in the passing game with his excellent route-running and reliable hands. He also has experience as a returner and could make an impact on special teams early in his NFL career.
Blake Corum from Michigan is ranked fifth in this class. Although he may not have the ideal size for an every-down back, Corum played a crucial role in Michigan’s successful season and showcased toughness and outstanding vision. While he lacks top-end speed, he compensates with his ability to break tackles and lower center of gravity.
Braelon Allen from Wisconsin is ranked fourth. He possesses a rare combination of power and speed, often shedding tacklers with his upper body strength. While his vision and creativity are not exceptional, once Allen gets going, he can be difficult to bring down. He has limited experience as a receiver but has shown promise in that area and should be reliable in pass protection. At just 20 years old, he has already accumulated an impressive number of 100-yard rushing performances.
Trey Benson from Florida State is ranked third. He possesses a rare blend of size and speed, demonstrated by his impressive 40-yard dash time at the Combine. Benson is powerful and capable of handling a heavy workload, but he has not been heavily utilized in college. He excels at running through arm tackles and can be challenging to tackle once he builds momentum. He could work on expanding his route tree and his vision as a runner.
MarShawn Lloyd from USC takes the second spot. He is a compact and powerful running back with excellent balance and explosive traits. However, he has a tendency to bounce runs to the outside too often, which is an area he needs to improve upon. Lloyd is a valuable asset in the passing game and displays strong pass protection skills, but he has had issues with fumbling and has dealt with injuries.
The top-ranked player is Jonathan Brooks from Texas. However, he is coming off a torn ACL in November, which could impact his draft stock. Brooks does not possess exceptional power but is a well-rounded player with excellent vision and smooth movement. He has good acceleration and the physicality to handle a heavy workload. Due to a talented group of running backs at Texas and his injury, Brooks has had limited opportunities in college, carrying the ball just 238 times.
