2018 NFL Draft: Top 5 Offensive Prospects
By Jon Dove
Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
Barkley is regarded by many as the top overall player in this draft class. He has all the physical tools needed to dominate at the next level. Barkley also happens to have a clean off-field record and shows passion for football.
His college career featured tons of highlight reel plays coming in all phases of the game. This is a truly versatile player who contributes in multiple areas.
Barkley stands out as a runner because he is capable of both grinding out the tough yards and breaking off long runs. He has an exceptional burst that allows him to chew up yards in a hurry. However, Barkley also features good elusiveness for a running back with his size.
This is someone capable of both outpacing defensive angles and juking defenders in the open field. That doesn’t even factor in his power as a runner.
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Barkley has a thick and solidly built frame with leg strength to routinely break tackles. He runs behind his pads which keeps him from exposing too much of his frame. Barkley is rarely brought down by initial contact and is always fighting for extra yardage.
His value is increased because of the improvements he made as a pass catcher. Barkley is a dynamic receiver who runs clean routes, plucks the ball with his hands and creates after the catch. He is just as dangerous as a pass catcher as he is a runner.
It’s hard to imagine him seeing time as a returner in the NFL, but Barkley showed during his college career that he’s a major threat on kick returns.
This is by far the top playmaker in the 2018 NFL Draft and some who will be a special player at the next level.