2018 NFL Draft: Running backs you need to know who aren’t Saquon Barkley

Ronald Jones II, USC Trojans

The prospect who’s making some want to pass on Saquon Barkley and draft a running back in Round 2 is USC Trojans star Ronald Jones II. Whether or not that proves to be a wise decision, it’s a testament to just how dynamic a playmaker Jones has become.

Elusiveness, explosiveness, and toughness are rarely combined in just one player, but Jones checks all three boxes on film.

Jones is more than just speed and agility, as he excels at identifying running lanes. He’s not afraid to cut back across the field, and while that may not be the greatest idea in the NFL, it’s a testament to his uncanny ability to stop on a dime and change directions.

The difference between Jones and some of his USC predecessors is that he’s capable of making plays after contact—a vital ability in the NFL.

Even if Jones doesn’t become a star, he should be a high-level contributor at the next level. His speed when hitting a running lane is almost unparalleled, with that burst of acceleration being the foundation for what makes him special.

If a team with a solid offensive line were to draft Jones, he’d likely end up being a dark horse candidate for Rookie of the Year.