Return of the running back: NFL draft could again see early run on position

In the days leading up to the 2017 NFL draft, USA TODAY Sports will take a closer look at the burning questions that will shape the event.

Our latest installment explores the possibility of a running back renaissance in the first round. 

Are running backs finally ... back?

The position has suffered significant devaluation in recent years as more teams deploy backfield committees and have become unwilling to expend high picks on players who absorb so much punishment and wear out quickly. In the last four drafts, just three tailbacks were selected in the first round.

But the pendulum may be changing direction.

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In 2016, the NFL rushing chart was topped by two rookies for the first time in league history as the Dallas Cowboys' Ezekiel Elliott (1,631 yards) and Chicago Bears' Jordan Howard (1,313 yards) served a reminder that running backs may be best suited to make an instant impact. And with the proliferation of nickel packages as base alignments and lighter linebackers who primarily excel in pass coverage, NFL defenses may as well be inviting opponents to run the ball.

It's possible four backs could go in Round 1, something that hasn't occurred since the vaunted 2008 class produced five first rounders.

This year's group features ability, variety and depth. LSU's Leonard Fournette is widely perceived as the premier prospect, and his physical style and speed have drawn comparisons to Adrian Peterson. Stanford's Christian McCaffrey, who set an NCAA record with 3,864 all-purpose yards in 2015 and has seen has stock steadily rise during the pre-draft process, is an accomplished runner, receiver and returner whose quickness and ability to run routes from the backfield or slot distinguish him. Dalvin Cook, Florida State's all-time leading rusher, is also highly effective in the passing game and would plug nicely into just about any pro offense. Alvin Kamara wasn't a workhorse at Tennessee, but his skill set is just a notch below McCaffrey's and could sneak him into the first round.

Oklahoma's Samaje Perine, Texas' D'Onta Foreman, Toledo's Kareem Hunt and Pitt's James Conner are all likely to be chosen by the end of Day 2.

And then there's Joe Mixon, whom some scouts believe might be the draft's best all-around back. However his disturbing off-field behavior at Oklahoma will almost certainly bar him from the first round.

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Follow Nate Davis on Twitter @ByNateDavis

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