The All-American running back from Texas is expected to be selected in the first round, but there are a handful of other rushers looking to bolster their barrel stock at the combine.
The NFL Scouting Combine (Feb. 28-March 6) is the league’s first major event of the offseason. 27 running backs have been invited to the event held in Indianapolis, where they will try to impress coaches and scouts during the selection process in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Here’s a look at the top five running backs we’ll look to draft in our fantasy leagues. For a deeper look, be sure to check out Top 100 Big Board 1.0.
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2023 Rookie Running Back Rankings: NFL Combine
1. Bijan Robinson, Texans: Robinson is the best running back prospect in this class, and many scouts don’t think he’s close. A tackle-breaking machine at Texas, he amassed 1,894 yards (1,580 on the ground) and scored 20 times in his final collegiate season. He would be a perfect fit with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys or Philadelphia Eagles in the second half of the first round.
2. Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama: Gibbs isn’t the biggest back at 5’11” and 200 pounds, but he’s versatile (44 catches in 2022) and an explosive runner. In fact, NFL Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson has compared him to Chris Johnson. While he may not be a three-point back in the NFL, Gibbs could emerge as a PPR machine if he lands with the right team.He would be a great fit with the Eagles or Miami Dolphins.
3. Zach Charbonnet, UCLA: Charbonnet is a versatile running back with good size who averaged seven yards per rush in his final season with the Bruins. His 2022 totals were career highs, in fact, as he ranked 15th in rushing yards despite missing three games. He was also No. 4 in rushing yards per game and No. 7 in total scrimmage yards. It would also go well with dolphins or eagles.
4. Devon Achane, Texas A&M: Achain is an undersized running back at 5-foot-9 and 185 pounds, but he’s an explosive playmaker who caught a total of 60 passes over his last 22 college games. He doesn’t project to be a trillionaire running back in the NFL, but rather an exciting, explosive addition to an early-downside mill. Also useful as a kick returner, Acane is likely a second- or third-round pick.
5. Roschon Johnson, Texas: Johnson was overshadowed by Robinson during his time at Texas, which of course limited his statistical success. In his final season, he rushed for 554 yards and averaged six yards per attempt. Also a decent passer, Johnson has the size (6-foot-1, 225 pounds) and tools to be an NFL pounder.