With The First Pick
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2017 NFL Draft Running Back Ranking

By Jon Dove

Oct 24, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers during the third quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers during the third quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 30, 2016; Provo, UT, USA; Toledo Rockets running back Kareem Hunt (3) tries to find a way around the Brigham Young Cougars defense during the fourth quarter at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Brigham Young won 55-53. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 30, 2016; Provo, UT, USA; Toledo Rockets running back Kareem Hunt (3) tries to find a way around the Brigham Young Cougars defense during the fourth quarter at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Brigham Young won 55-53. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Dalvin Cook, Florida State- Early 2nd Round

Many have Dalvin Cook ranked as an early 1st round prospect based on his big-play ability. I have him ranked lower based on some injury history and off-field concerns. The other factor is that he doesn’t consistently fight through arm tackles.

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However, Cook has as much upside as any running back in this class. It’s likely I’m setting myself up for a big miss with Cook becoming a highly productive NFL player.

5. Kareem Hunt, Toledo- Early 2nd Round

This is someone who is still flying under the radar despite his strong Senior Bowl performance. Hunt is a well-rounded back who can work through contact, attack the edge and break off long runs.

His ability as a pass catcher is something that is often overlooked. He’s someone that is a legitimate 3-down back capable of contributing in multiple ways.

6. Donnel Pumphrey, San Diego State- Late 2nd Round

Pumphrey won’t be a fit for every team based on his lack of size. He’s likely to small to be an every-down back meaning he’s looking at a 3rd down role. However, his game breaking speed will force an offensive coordinator to get him the ball.

There are plenty of examples of NFL running backs who do a lot of damage in an untraditional manner.

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