Rookie RBs off to a hot start in 2019 NFL preseason

The 2019 NFL preseason has given fans their first look at the incoming class of rookies and one position group that’s off to a hot start is running back.

Last April’s draft featured some quality running back prospects even though only one was selected in the first round. That distinction belonged to former Alabama star Josh Jacobs, who was picked by the Raiders with the 24th overall pick. Penn State’s Miles Sanders was the next one to hear his name called; the Eagles selected him with the 21st pick in the second round.

The run on running backs began in the third round when five were picked: Darrell Henderson (Rams), David Montgomery (Bears) and Devin Singletary (Bills), Damien Harris (Patriots) and Alexander Mattison (Vikings).

In total, seven running backs were drafted in the first three rounds; they’re all expected to play big roles in 2019. In fact, if the preseason is any indication of what’s to come, April’s draft may have produced several starters.

Jacobs made his preseason debut Thursday and quickly established himself as the potential centerpiece of Oakland’s offense. He had four carries for 21 yards and flashed his quick and powerful running style.  There’s no doubt he’ll challenge for 1,000 rushing yards and doube-digit touchdowns this fall.

Montgomery had arguably the most impressive first exposure. He totaled 46 yards and a touchdown on six touches during the Bears’ preseason opener against the Panthers and has impressed the coaching staff so much that they chose to rest him against the Giants Friday.

Sanders, Singletary and Mattison have all flashed, too.

In today’s NFL, it’s critically important to hit on a running back in the draft. With high-profile contract disputes like Melvin Gordon and Ezekiel Elliott (and Le’Veon Bell in 2018) shining the spotlight on teams’ willingness (or lack thereof) to pay top dollar for a running back on a second contract, hitting on a bellcow who will play on a rookie contract during his prime years is of the utmost importance.

Several teams appear to have gotten it right in 2019. That trend should continue in 2020 when the crop of running back prospects is expected to be even better.