2015 NFL Draft: Top 10 Running Backs

Jan 1, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA;Wisconsin Badgers running back Melvin Gordon (25) runs with the ball against the Auburn Tigers during the first half in the 2015 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA;Wisconsin Badgers running back Melvin Gordon (25) runs with the ball against the Auburn Tigers during the first half in the 2015 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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2015 NFL Draft
Oct 4, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Miami Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson (8) runs the ball against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the first quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Duke Johnson, Miami

Though the two Super Bowl teams had power backs that could fight for yards after getting hit, good teams that do not have that superstar running back are generally more accepting of smaller running backs and use them in a variety of ways. That is all gravy for Duke Johnson.

Armed with a menacing 5-foot-9, 206-pound frame, Johnson is expected to forego his senior year and enter the 2015 NFL Draft. Though he may be small in stature, his production speaks for itself.

In 242 rushing attempts, Johnson gained 1,652 yards for a per attempt average of 6.8 yards. Not bad for the diminutive running back from Norland Senior High School in Miami Gardens, Florida. Using patient running and lighting quick agility, Johnson can burst through holes and do some damage at the next level.

However, his real strength lies in his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. In 2014, Johnson caught 38 passes for 421 yards and 3 touchdowns. His ability to elude coverage will be a big plus for teams thinking about drafting him.

Unfortunately, teams will also be thinking about his size as well. Johnson is competitive, but he may struggle to run in between the tackles in the NFL. He is also shaky in pass protection and may only be utilized as a pass catcher if he proves unable to run against bigger, stronger players.

However, with the success of smaller, pass catching specialists like Darren Sproles, Johnson may find a niche in the league and become a more balanced player in time.

Projected Pick: mid-second round

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