Top 5 Running Backs in the 2017 NFL Draft

Christian McCaffrey -5’11″ 202 lbs. – Stanford

McCaffrey is a name that everyone knows quite well as the 2015 Heisman runner-up and the Stanford star with NFL pedigree, thanks to father Ed McCaffrey.

A four-star recruit in the 2014 class, McCaffrey was the ranked the second all-purpose back coming out of high school, behind only Fournette. McCaffrey definitely lived up to his potential and now hopes to carry that into the NFL.

Strengths:

McCaffrey is a jack of all trades, master of some. Simply put, he can do it all.

What stands out the most about McCaffrey is his patience and excellent vision. He knows the leverage of his linemen and takes the correct side of the blocker to gain maximum yardage.

Playing in a pro-style offense is something that many NFL teams will love, as he’ll transition smoothly to the NFL game. In the open field, he sets up defenders with angles and can beat them with speed or a variety of moves. Or he can even do this in tight spaces.

McCaffrey has a lethal jump cut, displaying a ridiculous burst of speed as soon as his feet plant after making the cut. A team could legitimately play him at receiver if they wanted to, as his receiving ability is that good. He has fantastic hands, smooth routes and great separation when flexed or coming out of the backfield. He definitely gets that from his old man.

Weaknesses:

What most critics will point out is that McCaffrey lacks the bulk desired to be an every-down back, and said critics wonder if he can hold up in the NFL, or how long his shelf life is.

He needs to clean up his pass protection, and to plant his heels and keep his head up when making contact. When facing contact, he can easily be brought down at times. But for the most part, looking for weaknesses with him is nitpicking. He’s that good.

Must Read: McKenzie's Top 5 draft picks as GM

Overall:

McCaffrey hits all my thresholds in terms of film, production analytics and athleticism, making him him my no. 1 running back in this class.

While I do have questions about his build, his football IQ and outstanding character make him one of the safest prospects in this entire class.

NFL comparison: Brian Westbrook

Film score: 78.5

Athleticism score: 8.2 (elite)

Final score: 80 (Round 1)