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Oakland Raiders: Top 10 draft running backs

By Austin Gayle

Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Ezekiel Elliott celebrates following the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Buckeyes defeated the Fighting Irish 44-28. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Ezekiel Elliott celebrates following the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Buckeyes defeated the Fighting Irish 44-28. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 7, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) rushes against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Utah won 34-23. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 7, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) rushes against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Utah won 34-23. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /

Devontae Booker, Utah

Unlike Henry, former Utah running back Devontae Booker is a capable three-down back at the next level, as he is a proven runner and pass-catcher out of the backfield.

In his two years with the Utes, Booker accumulated 2,774 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns on 560 carries; he brought in 79 receptions for 629 yards and two touchdowns.

Without elite elusiveness, Booker relies on his excellent vision and patience to set up the blocks in front of him in order to effectively carry the ball to open space. At the second level, Booker will surprise some defenders with his ability to power through defenders, as he consistently falls forward after contact for extra yards.

Given his lack of great top speed, Booker will struggle to put together long touchdown runs. Booker, a former junior college transfer, will begin his rookie season at 24-years-old, which, given the current lifespan for NFL running backs, could push his draft stock down if teams don’t believe he’s ready to start as a rookie.

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