2022 NFL Draft Notebook: Taking a look at the 2022 running back class
By John Blair
While the 2022 NFL Draft class of running backs might not have a top-5 prospect in it the class is an extremely deep group. The class is led by Breece Hall of Iowa State who could be the highest-drafted Cyclone in history. This year’s group also has a good combination of power backs including Leddie Brown of West Virginia and quicker backs like Jerrion Ealy of Ole Miss.
In this week’s NFL Draft Notebook we take a look at
-The top five running backs in this year’s class
-A Group of Five back who could be a sleeper
-Running backs seeing their stock rise and fall
-And much more
Top Five Running Backs in 2022 NFL Draft
Breece Hall, Iowa State
Iowa State’s Breece Hall is a physical runner who led the nation in yards after contact last season with 935 yards. To go along with his powerful running style he shows good patience as a runner and does a good job of waiting for his blocks to set up. The one real concern with him is his speed as he does not have the game-breaking speed some of the backs in this class have.
Leddie Brown, West Virginia
A prospect who is coming off a big year that will likely be one of the top running backs in the 2022 NFL Draft is Leddie Brown of West Virginia. Brown is a physical runner who shows outstanding contact balance. He also has the ability to be used in the passing game having caught 31 passes last season.
Mohamed Ibrahim, Minnesota
One of the more productive running backs in college football last season was Mohamed Ibrahim of Minnesota. Ibrahim set a school record with an average of 153 rushing yards per game While he was productive carrying the ball he did not produce much in the passing game, only catching eight passes. In order to earn a day two draft grade he is going to need to increase his production in this area next season.
Brian Robinson, Alabama
Alabama’s Brian Robinson made a very wise choice to come back for the 2021 season, instead of entering the NFL Draft. This was an intelligent choice as he will likely be the starter for the first time in his Alabama career and with his talent level, he could become one of the best backs in college football this season. As a runner, he is a physical back who makes it a habit to run through arm tackles.
Zamir White, Georgia
Georgia’s Zamir White might be the most physically gifted running back in the class as he displays a rare combination of speed and power. However, to fully utilize his athletic ability he will need to improve his vision as a runner. He often runs into a crowd and misses the open running lane. His production as a receiver has been average at best as well, having only caught eight passes over the previous two seasons.