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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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

9. J.J. Taylor, Arizona

Now we might be getting into some shockers in the 2020 NFL Draft running back rankings. There are other big names who won’t make the list, so why is Arizona’s J.J. Taylor at No. 9 after a pedestrian senior season?

First, take a look at his numbers from 2018 when he put up an impressive 1,434 yards while averaging 5.6 yards per carry. His lack of size will be a concern at 5-foot-6 and 185 pounds and there’s no doubt he won’t survive as an early-down back. However, the tape is good enough to get Taylor into the top 10.

Taylor is among the best in the 2020 NFL Draft when it comes to his abilities as a receiver and when he gets into space. He lined up in the slot for the Wildcats and ran a variety of routes, including crossers and seam routes.

Taylor’s lateral quickness is near the top of the class. He makes defenders miss in space with ease and can create in the backfield when there’s nothing in front of him. Taylor also shows good toughness and pop in his pads for his size and he isn’t afraid to get low and hit defenders.

He will have to answer questions about his abilities in pass protection and ball security, along with size, but Taylor is an elite receiving back who can make an immediate impact on third down, which is essential in today’s league.

  • Grade: Fourth Round
  • Comparison: Darren Sproles
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