The NFL Draft season is heating up, and all eyes are on the Scouting Combine, kicking off on February 26. This annual event, often dubbed the "underwear Olympics," is where NFL teams get their first real look at the incoming talent pool.
While the physical performances are crucial, the Combine is equally about the interactions and insights teams gather. Running backs, a position always under scrutiny, will showcase their skills on February 28.
Here's a breakdown of the running backs invited to the Combine, complete with their school, height, weight, and projected draft range. Keep in mind, these measurements might shift as the Combine progresses, and we'll get more data on 40-yard dash times, bench presses, and other drills.
Notre Dame's Jeremyiah Love is the standout in this draft, sitting in a league of his own. His teammate, Jadarian Price, is also catching eyes, but many experts don't expect another back to be picked in the first round.
This year's running back class is deep, though not overflowing with top-tier talent. Out of the 21 backs invited, fewer than half are projected as future NFL starters. However, the Combine offers a stage to change those perceptions.
Top Running Back Prospects:
- Jeremyiah Love, Notre Dame: 6'0", 215 lbs, Top 15
- Jadarian Price, Notre Dame: 5'11", 210 lbs, Rd 1-3
- Jonah Coleman, Washington: 5'9", 228 lbs, Rd 2-3
- Mike Washington Jr, Arkansas: 6'2", 228 lbs, Rd 2-3
- Emmett Johnson, Nebraska: 5'11", 200 lbs, Rd 2-4
- Nicholas Singleton, Penn St: 6'0", 224 lbs, Rd 3-4
- Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest: 5'10", 195 lbs, Rd 3-4
The list continues with other notable names, each bringing a unique skill set to the table.
For those who didn't get the Combine invite, there are still opportunities. Players like Jaydn Ott and Kaelon Black could make waves in the Draft, even without the Combine spotlight.
Notable Non-Invitees:
- Terion Stewart, Virginia Tech: 5'9", 222 lbs, Rd 3-5
- Jaydn Ott, Oklahoma: 5'11", 208 lbs, Rd 3-5
- Kaelon Black, Indiana: 5'10", 211 lbs, Rd 3-5
This year's running back class might not have the marquee names of past drafts, but there's plenty of potential waiting to be tapped. Jeremyiah Love is the clear frontrunner, but the rest of the field is wide open, with analysts predicting a flurry of selections starting in the second round.
As the Combine unfolds, these players will have the chance to prove their worth and potentially shake up the draft boards. It's all about fit and scheme, and with a mix of power backs and agile playmakers, this class has something for every team. Keep an eye on these prospects as they aim to make their mark on the NFL stage.