With the college football season approaching, it’s time to take a deeper look at some of the top NFL Draft-eligible players at each position. This will help us assemble an early list of prospects to watch this fall.
- 2024 NFL Draft Prospects to Watch: QB | WR | TE
- Dynasty Startup Draft Primers: QB | RB | WR | TE
- Dynasty Rookie Primers: QB | RB | WR | TE
- Dynasty Rookie Draft Simulator
2024 NFL Draft: Running Back Prospects to Watch
Below are 2024 NFL Draft-eligible running backs who I’ll be keeping an eye on this coming season.
Bucky Irving (Oregon)
After rushing for 699 yards in Minnesota’s three-back rotation in 2021, Bucky Irving transferred to Oregon and put together a 157-1,064-5 line, splitting carries with Noah Whittington. Bucky Irving’s on the smaller side at 5’10”, 194 pounds, so a rotational role looks likely at the next level. However, his impressive cutting ability and flexible build make him an elusive back in space. He was also an important part of the Ducks’ passing attack, although he dropped four passes. I’d like to see him execute inside runs as called more consistently rather than bouncing runs outside and increasing the risk of negative-yardage snaps.
Montrell Johnson (Florida)
Montrell Johnson transferred from Louisiana-Lafayette last season and has exactly 841 yards in each of his first two years in school. He’s been mostly running zone concepts with a patient style and clean footwork. He follows blockers well and can navigate through congestion with good knee-bend, but he doesn’t have the most powerful running style and isn’t a high-volume or particularly sure-handed receiver. Johnson had some big games last year but got bottled up too often, so showing week-to-week consistency will be important.
Jase McClellan (Alabama)
Jase McClellan is entering his fourth year of college and should finally have his chance to function as a lead back. Last year, he ran for 111-651-7 but should increase his output now that Jahmyr Gibbs is in Detroit. He has a strong build at 5’11”, 215 pounds, and has more experience as a blocker than usual due to Alabama’s frequent use of two-back formations. As a runner, he is decisive with smooth acceleration, minimizing negative-yardage plays. So far, he profiles as more of a rotational back at the next level.
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