2015 NFL Draft: Top 10 Running Backs

5. Jay Ajayi, Boise State

There is no better feeling from a coach or an educator like taking kid who was in trouble and helping him turn his negative trajectory into a positive one. There is a certain satisfaction that comes with helping someone on a bad path.

Jay Ajayi was brought to Boise State in 2011 as a late-blooming three-star recruit, and in his first semester at the university, got arrested for stealing and tore his ACL within a week. Needless to say, his five-day jail sentence after he pleaded guilty did not please his coaches.

However, he recovered to earn his starting spot in 2013 after backing up D.J. Harper in 2012, and had a monster 2014 where he gained 2,358 yards from scrimmage and scored 32 touchdowns to lead the nation along with Melvin Gordon.

Now, he has a good chance to play in the NFL.

Ajayi is a balanced back that runs low to the ground and frequently gains leverage over larger defenders. He complements his tough running with amazing hands, where he had 50 catches and four touchdowns this past season.

At 6-foot, you would expect Ajayi to have a little more power in his 216-pound frame. He runs with a lot effort, but has not shown obvious power to able to run in between the tackles consistently at the next level.

Though he is not exactly Ian Johnson in terms of maturity (and who is, anyway?), he has at least shown he has improved his character and stayed out of trouble. With an NFL strength program, Ajayi can become a good, multi-dimensional back.

Projected Pick: low second round

Next: The Duke of Miami