NFL mock draft: Conference championship edition

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Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Ezekiel Elliott (15) runs the ball in for a touchdown as Michigan Wolverines safety Jarrod Wilson (22) attempts to block in the third quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

In 2015 the Rams drafted Georgia running back Todd Gurley 10th overall, ending a drought of running backs in the initial round of the draft. Since 2012, none were selected before round two, but Gurley (and then later Melvin Gordon from Wisconsin) changed all that.

Now there seems to be another running back looking to start a new streak of first rounders, and that runner is Ohio State’s Ezekiel Elliott, who replaces free-agent Alfred Morris in Washington.

The Redskins favored rookie Matt Jones over Morris last season, but at just 3.4 yards per rush it would be a hard sell to head into 2016 with him as the lead back, especially with Elliott sitting here at No. 21.

The 220-pound back burst onto the scene during his sophomore campaign by churning out 1,878 yards and 18 touchdowns as the Buckeyes won a National Championship. With all eyes on him following his enormous year, Elliott again topped the 1,800 yard mark, this time going for 1,821 yards and 23 more scores.

For his three-year stint at OSU, Zeke averaged 6.7 yards per attempt. His tough running style and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield make him a great option to help their newest franchise quarterback (assuming he gets a new deal that is) Kirk Cousins.

Next: No. 22

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