Top 5 Returners in 2017 NFL Draft: Big Names Headline Group

The 2017 NFL Draft is rapidly approaching. While we are all aware of the positions in this draft, an underrated area is special teams. Here we look at the top five returners.

The 2017 NFL Draft is almost here and mock drafts seem rampant. We focus on team needs, prospect fits, draft trends, etc. and it all revolves around positional analysis. One thing that often seems overlooked is the impact a player can have on special teams, specifically as a returner.

The fastest prospect doesn’t always translate to the best punt/kick returners. This is a skill that is developed just as a wide receiver improves on his route running or quarterback continues to strengthen his arm or master his accuracy.

There are a number of potential returners in this draft, here we analyze five of the best.

Honorable Mentions

Carlos Henderson, WR, LA Tech
T.J. Logan, RB, North Carolina
Eddie Jackson, S, Alabama

Nov 19, 2016; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie (16) returns a punt for a touchdown against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns during the first quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Sep 3, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Cougars cornerback Brandon Wilson (26) returns a missed field goal attempt for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Oklahoma Sooners at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Mar 2, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey speaks to the media during the 2017 combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Mar 6, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; USC Trojans defensive back Adoree’ Jackson goes through workout drills during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Oct 29, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) walks off the field after a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

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