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Blake Corum jumps ahead of the pack.
The 2024 NFL Draft's RB class may not top the charts like its predecessor, but it's undeniably rich with talent. The debate over the top pick is wide open, with scouts divided—some favor Jonathon Brooks, while others see Blake Corum as possibly ranking as low as RB4. Despite the lack of consensus, I'm bullish on Corum's prospects as a versatile three-down back from Michigan.
Jonathon Brooks Is A Close Number 2
Before the Combine, I had Brooks leading my rankings, but after reflecting on Corum's comprehensive skill set, I see him as a very close second. Notably, Brooks has reportedly received a clean bill of health from the Dallas Cowboys' medical staff, making a strong case for his readiness for the upcoming season despite a 2023 ACL injury.
Trey Benson's NFL Combine performance solidified the tape
Trey Benson, who I've ranked third, impressed with a 4.39 40-yard dash and a swift 1.52 10-yard split at 216 lbs during the Combine. This performance alone could justify elevating him in the rankings. His tape reveals an underappreciated receiving ability, suggesting he might just top this draft class as a running back.
Why I chose Bucky Irving ahead of Audric Estime
Choosing Bucky Irving over Audric Estime in my rankings was tough. Irving's all-around game edged him ahead, though Estime's power running evokes Leonard Fournette and hints at untapped potential.
Jaylen Wright's ceiling is the highest in the class.
However, my top pick for sheer upside is Jaylen Wright. His NFL Combine performance and on-field versatility make him an exciting prospect, capable of making big plays in open space. While his agility and past fumbling issues could raise flags, Wright's overall potential is compelling, offering a mix of power and speed that could translate well at the NFL level.
2024 NFL Draft Running Back Rankings
(RB1) Blake Corum, Michigan (RB, 5'8", 212 lbs)
Projection: High-End Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 3rd Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Not specified
Analysis: Corum thrives in a zone-blocking scheme, where his outstanding vision and agility, combined with a low center of gravity, improve his balance and efficiency between the tackles. He's proficient in pass protection and demonstrates a high football IQ. Although Corum was not heavily utilized as a pass catcher at Michigan, he has the potential to offer three-down versatility as a pass-catching back in the NFL.
(RB2) Jonathon Brooks, Texas (RB, 6'0", 207 lbs)
Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: Late 2nd, Early 3rd Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Cowboys, Packers, Chargers
Analysis: Brooks exhibits versatility and dynamism, excelling in zone running schemes where his vision and agility shine. He leverages his natural ability to navigate and exploit gaps effectively. While showing promise in the passing game, improving his pass protection and route running could significantly enhance his role in the NFL.
(RB3) Trey Benson, Florida State (RB, 6'1", 220 lbs)
Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 3rd-4th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Packers, Cowboys, Bengals
Analysis: Benson is known for his vertical power running, utilizing strength and contact balance to break tackles and push forward. His physicality aligns with schemes focused on inside running, and while showing potential as a receiver, expanding his versatility could heighten his NFL impact.
(RB4) Jaylen Wright, Tennessee (RB, 5'11", 210 lbs)
Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 3rd-4th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Cowboys, Bengals, Chargers
Analysis: Wright's exceptional speed characterizes his play, making him a significant threat in open space and an ideal fit for schemes that leverage his big-play potential. He is solid in pass protection, and his abilities as a receiver offer a versatile toolkit for the NFL.
(RB5) Bucky Irving, Oregon (RB, 5'10", 195 lbs)
Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 3rd-5th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Cowboys, Packers, Bengals
Analysis: Irving's agility and speed make him particularly effective in outside zone and gap schemes. As a dual-threat in the passing game, further developing his receiving skills and pass protection would make him a more complete player at the NFL level.
(RB6) Audric Estime, Notre Dame (RB, 5'11", 230 lbs)
Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 4th-5th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Bengals, Bears, Packers
Analysis: Estime embodies the quintessential power back, thriving in a ground-and-pound offense. His powerful running style, highlighted by his ability to power through defenders while maintaining his balance, is what NFL teams seek in short-yardage and goal-to-go scenarios. While average in the passing game, his solid pass protection bolsters his three-down back potential.
(RB7) Marshawn Lloyd, USC (RB, 5'9", 210 lbs)
Projection: Low-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 4th-5th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Chargers, Giants, Packers
Analysis: Lloyd is marked by dynamic playmaking ability, blending speed with agility. His improved vision and patience year over year is notable, and he can create explosive plays when it appears nothing is available. He has excellent potential as a pass catcher and a willingness in pass protection.
(RB8) Ray Davis, Kentucky (RB, 5'10", 216 lbs)
Projection: Low-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 5th-6th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Chargers, Bengals, Patriots
Analysis: Davis is a prototype power back, favoring a North-South approach with notable straight-line speed. Ideal for a zone-blocking scheme, his blend of power running, ability to contribute in the passing game, and prowess in short-yardage situations solidify his utility in varied offensive schemes.
(RB9) Will Shipley, Clemson (RB, 5'11", 205 lbs)
Projection: Low-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 6th-7th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Patriots, Bengals, Packers
Analysis: Shipley stands out with exceptional vision and explosive agility, making him versatile in both the run and pass game. His adaptability to zone-run and power-run schemes and his ability to operate as a three-down back position him as a valuable asset in multiple offensive schemes.
(RB10) Isaac Guerendo, Louisville (RB, 6'0", 221 lbs)
Projection: Low-Level Starter Potential
Consensus Draft Projections: 6th-7th Round
NFL Teams Mocked: Bills, Patriots, Vikings
Analysis: Guerendo showcases remarkable athleticism, with patience and vision that complement his running style. He can flourish as a one-cut runner in a zone-based offense. At 221lbs, NFL scouts love the potential after he posted a 4.33 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. He is a solid pass protector and a decent receiver out of the backfield.