NFL Training Camp: Rookie Running Back Situation

NFL training camps are about to start and we will finally get back into some real football action.

The NFL does a good job spacing out their offseason events in order to keep things interesting. However, we are all ready for NFL training camps to start so we can see players on the actual field of play.

There are plenty of storylines as we head to training camp including see the first action of this year’s rookies.

It’ll be interesting to see if high picks like Leonard Fournette can carve out a major workload early in the year. His situation is very interesting because the Jacksonville Jaguars have solid running backs like Chris Ivory and T.J. Yeldon already in place.

More from With the First Pick

• 2024 NFL Draft: Prospect Viewing Guide for Week 0
• 2024 NFL Draft: All Eyes On NFL Draft Defensive Prospects
• Player Spotlight: USC Safety Calen Bullock
• 2024 Senior Bowl Watchlist Announced
• 2024 NFL Draft: Florida State is Loaded with Prospect in 2023

Christian McCaffrey is going to see plenty of targets in the Carolina Panthers offense, but will share carries with veteran Jonathan Stewart. We all expect to see McCaffrey get most of his work in the passing game. However, he’s a very talented runner and could quickly force Stewart into a very part-time role.

Many were surprised to see Dalvin Cook slip to the 2nd round where he landed with the Minnesota Vikings. He’s going to be in a training camp battle with Latavius Murray for the right to be the team’s main ball carrier.

Cook has game-breaking talent, but may take time to adjust to the NFL game. Murray is coming off a solid season with the Raiders and may have the early edge.

Joe Mixon was arguably the most controversial prospect in the draft due to his off-field issues. However, he landed in the 2nd round of the draft based on his high upside and unique talent. Mixon is a two-way player who can attack the defense with both his legs and hands.

Look for the Cincinnati Bengals to get him involved early as they look to spark their offensive attack.

Kareem Hunt was one of my favorite players in the 2017 NFL Draft and he has a chance to make an early impact with the Kansas City Chiefs. Training camp will give him an opportunity to steal carries away from veterans Spencer Ware and Charcandrick West.

These are just a few of the rookie running backs capable of making an impact this year. It all starts in a few weeks when all the teams enter training camp.