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2020 NFL Draft position rankings: Top 10 running backs

By Jacob Schyvinck

ANN ARBOR, MI - NOVEMBER 30: J.K. Dobbins #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes runs for a first down during the first quarter of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
ANN ARBOR, MI - NOVEMBER 30: J.K. Dobbins #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes runs for a first down during the first quarter of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /
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2020 NFL Draft rankings running backs
(Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images) /

7. Antonio Gibson, Memphis

The 2020 NFL Draft features a group of players that fit the “position-less” mold, where they can play in multiple spots on offense or defense and succeed. Antonio Gibson is one of those players. Gibson transferred to Memphis from the JUCO levels for his final two years and finally got playing time as a senior. He secured 71 touches total for the Tigers in 2019 and gained 1,104 yards, an average of 15.5 yards per touch.

The touches were nearly a 50-50 split with him lining up in the slot for the most part as a wideout, so why is he ranked with the running backs? Gibson’s traits as a runner look slightly more refined. Gibson is definitely a prospect that needs molding but his athletic profile is off the charts and it shows on tape.

He has the speed to be a game-changer wherever he lines up and his agility shows up as well where he can make defenders whiff in space. He gets from zero to top-speed very quickly and can be a three-down running back with his ability as a receiver. Gibson shows good instincts between the tackles as a runner as well. He’s also built to handle a workload at 6-foot-2, 221 pounds.

Part of the draft is taking chances on players like Gibson. His tape is fun and creative offenses will love his skill set. Give him time to develop while he dominates on special teams and the payoff could be a big one.

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