2015 NFL Mock Draft: First of the Offseason

Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) is pressured by Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Joey Bosa (97) in the second half in the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

With the New England Patriots just having won the Super Bowl I’ve updated my 2015 NFL Mock Draft. I now have three running backs going in the first round as the talent is there this year. Everyone thinks running backs aren’t as valuable anymore because none were taken in the first round the last two years.

Adrian Peterson, Leveon Bell, Demarco Murray and Marshawn Lynch have shown the value of a great running back.

And watch how much better the Minnesota Vikings are with Adrian Peterson back. I’m not even fully convinced that the position is really devalued—it’s just that the great athletes over 200 pounds are playing receiver now. Back in the day, when a guy was over 200 pounds, running a 4.3-40, he was a special running back prospect.

Lately, that same time of big, strong, fast, fluid and agile athlete has been an NFL receiver prospect. These spread option systems with running quarterbacks have made it even harder on the running back. But there are three of those special type of athletes coming into the 2015 NFL Draft.

Speaking of running quarterbacks, Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota is back at No. 2 where he should be.

So turn the page to see my mock draft

Next: Picks 1-3