NFL Draft 2016: Ranking the Top 10 Running Backs for Next Year

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Nov 22, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Jonathan Williams (32) rushes against the Ole Miss Rebels at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Arkansas defeated Mississippi 30-0. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Williams’s most impressive performances came first in back to back losses to Alabama and Georgia, where he ran for 83 and 108 yards respectively with no help from the passing game against two very talented defenses, and then a 105-yard one touchdown performance against the Texas Longhorns, who were coached by defensive genius Charlie Strong and had an amazing rush defense.

As a by-committee back, Williams is the first option in Bielema’s system, but he was tough and reliable all year. Not only has he shown NFL scouts he can carry the load and take the beating. He also proved to be the big play threat. It was only against Nicholls State, but Williams did have 143 rushing yards and a touchdown on only four carries, averaging 35.8 yards per rush.

You can’t really beat that. So he may be in Arkansas’s system, but Williams is the perfect back to take a chance on.

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7

Jonathan Williams

Senior, Arkansas Razorbacks

We now go to another Arkansas Razorbacks running back coached in Bret Bielema’s system. Jonathan Williams must not be taken lightly.

Williams is 6’1″ 224 pounds and rushed for 1,190 yards and 12 touchdowns on 211 carries, averaging more than five and a half yards per carry. He also had 11 receptions for 65 yards and two touchdowns to show his versatility.

Williams’s most impressive performances came first in back to back losses to Alabama and Georgia, where he ran for 83 and 108 yards respectively with no help from the passing game against two very talented defenses, and then a 105-yard one touchdown performance against the Texas Longhorns, who were coached by defensive genius Charlie Strong and had an amazing rush defense.

As a by-committee back, Williams is the first option in Bielema’s system, but he was tough and reliable all year. Not only has he shown NFL scouts he can carry the load and take the beating. He also proved to be the big play threat. It was only against Nicholls State, but Williams did have 143 rushing yards and a touchdown on only four carries, averaging 35.8 yards per rush.

You can’t really beat that. So he may be in Arkansas’s system, but Williams is the perfect back to take a chance on.

Next: #6: Derrick Henry