2023 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 5 players at each position

2023 NFL Draft Big Board: Running back

Robinson’s combination of speed and strength made him nearly impossible to take down in the open field. Last season, he recorded an FBS single-season record 104 broken tackles, per PFF.

In addition, he was one of only three FBS running backs to rush for 1,500+ yards and average 6.0+ yards per carry (DeWayne McBride, Tyjae Spears).

Robinson is an underrated pass catcher. On tape, he is an effective route runner and made several contested catches.

He should be locked in as a first-round pick.

Achane is the fastest running back in the 2023 class. At the combine, he ran a 4.32-second 40-yard dash. He participated in track at Texas A&M, and he even won the 60-meter dash at the 2022 Don Kirby Invitational.

Given his 5-foot-9 size, he is surprisingly adept at fighting through contact.

Achane has real star potential.

Gibbs projects to be a three-down playmaker. He racked up 104 receptions during his college career, and he ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the combine. He was also one of the most prolific kick returners in the country.

He needs to improve as a pass blocker, and he lacks the power of other backs in his class. Still, the upside is impossible to deny.

Okay, hear me out.

McBride was an absolute force at UAB. Last season, he was second in rushing yards (1,713) and third in yards per carry (7.4). That combination of production and efficiency is unheard of.

McBride performed well against top-level competition, as well. In 2021, he had 13 carries for 61 yards against No. 2 Georgia, which is impressive given the talent disparity at the line of scrimmage. He also had 28 carries for 183 yards and a touchdown against No. 13 Purdue.

McBride is a perceptive back. He has great vision and awareness. Critics will get caught up in the lack of receiving usage, but McBride’s floor is still a reliable two-down back.

Nearly every year there is an overlooked running back, who goes on to a big rookie season (James Robinson, Elijah Mitchell, Tyler Allgeier). In the right situation, McBride can make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Last season, Charbonnet led the Pac-12 with 1,359 rushing yards and 7.0 yards per carry. He is not the flashiest player, but he just finds ways to pick up extra yards. At 6-foot and 214 pounds, he is one of the larger backs in the class. He routinely lowers his shoulder and fights through contact.

Charbonnet boasts underrated speed, as well. On one run, he reached a top speed of 21.1 MPH.

Honorable mentions: Deuce Vaughn, Tyjae Spears, Chase Brown

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