Once upon a time running backs were coveted like few other prospects. Quarterbacks were the only position valued significantly more. A clear difference can be seen in this new era of football. Quarterbacks, offensive linemen, and receivers draw crowds of scouts. Edge rushers and cornerbacks get plenty of views too. But today’s running backs are seen as future liabilities. No matter how good a running back is teamed think treadwear. Eventually the yardage and hits equal mileage on a tire. Today’s offensive tactics also decrease a running back’s NFL draft betting lines value.
2020 NFL Draft First-Round Total Running Backs Selected
| Date: | Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, April 25 |
|---|---|
| 2020 NFL Draft TV Coverage: | NFL Network, ESPN, ABC |
| 2020 NFL Draft First Round Odds Total Running Back Picks: | Over 1.5 +375, Under 1.5 -650 |
Running Backs 2020 NFL Draft Betting Odds Analysis
Veteran NFL fans and handicappers recall the days of OJ Simpson, Barry Sanders, LaDainian Tomlinson, Eric Dickerson, and Marshall Faulk. Not that long ago, fans would celebrate the arrival of a highly drafted back. Now running backs are an offshore betting afterthought. At most, there are only two RB’s expected to be taken in the first round. Let’s look at the top prospects.
JK Dobbins – Ohio State
JK Dobbins was a major contributor to Ohio State’s 2019 playoff berth. To illustrate Dobbins had 2003 yards, 6.7 yards per carry and 21 touchdowns. Dobbins earned first-team All-America and All-Big Ten honors. Further, he set the school record for most rushing yards in a season. NFL scouts view Dobbins as perfectly built. He is compact with good spring and balance. His ability to make multiple cuts is a key asset. Additionally, Dobbins has proven he can break open for long gains.
By contrast, Dobbins hasn’t shown great vision. His elusiveness and initial acceleration are not seen as strengths.
Jonathan Taylor – Wisconsin
Certainly, it’s difficult to find a more productive back than Jonathan Taylor. As Wisconsin’s feature back the past three years he totaled 6174 yards and 50 touchdowns. The past two seasons he eclipsed the 2000-yard rushing mark. Last year he ran for 2003 yards, 6.3 yards per carry, and 21 touchdowns. Taylor is a two-time unanimous first team All-American. Also, he won the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s best running back in 2018 and 2019. In those same years, he was named Big Ten Ameche/Dayne Running Back of the Year.
Taylor impresses NFL scouts with his build/speed dimension. No running back prospect has shown greater durability. Correlate his cutting ability. And the fact that he cannot be arm tackled. Fumbles remain a concern with the NFL draft betting lines. Another worry is that he put on a lot of “miles” while at Wisconsin. In a similar light, Taylor only showed competence at receiving 2019.
D’Andre Swift – Georgia
Overall D’Andre Swift easily cleared the 1000-yard mark in his final two seasons at Georgia. In 2019 Swift ran for 1049 yards, 6.4 yards per carry and seven touchdowns. At the same time, he caught 56 passes the past two seasons. To exemplify his pass catching ability may set him apart. Swift rates high as a cut and go runner. He brings exceptional balance and speed. In like manner to Taylor, he is seen as a fumbler.
The Pick: Just one running back will be drafted in the first round