2020 NFL Draft: Which running backs will end up getting paid?
By Ian Higgins
Jonathan Taylor, Wisconsin
Jonathan Taylor is a hard-nosed runner who can produce between the tackles. The Wisconsin systems he ran in relied on heavy sets with fullbacks and other lead blockers to create running lanes for him. The Wisconsin offensive line produced well and creates similar success to that of the average NFL offensive line.
Taylor does not possess the same freakish physical gifts of Leonard Fournette but runs just like him. He is able to meet defenders in the hole and push forward for additional yardage. This is the best example of three yards and a cloud of dust football I have seen at the collegiate level since the prime days of Georgia Tech.
His pedigree has not been tested yet outside the tackles though since Wisconsin focused solely on producing within the A and B gaps. Taylor also hasn’t had many chances to show receiving ability, again taking away from his NFL draft value.
It will be interesting to see which team takes a chance on Taylor in the 2020 NFL Draft, seeing his hard running style and the success of its revival in many NFL systems (ex: Dallas, New England). Taylor will only find success in a team that fits his needs with a power system, lead back and a proven offensive line.
An NFL team could also just as easily replace his production with a more versatile back to stretch the field laterally and create more spacing than a hard-nosed bruiser. I see Taylor doing best paired with another back who is shiftier and more capable in space.