2017 NFL Draft: Top 10 Running Backs after Bowl Season

The gap between the No. 1 and No. 2 running backs on my big board is closer than the gap between any other running backs on this list. In fact, they’re the No. 4 and No. 5 overall prospects on my big board, with only Jonathan Allen, Myles Garrett and Reuben Foster coming in ahead of them.

Florida State’s Dalvin Cook is my No. 2 running back, but in almost any other draft class he’d probably be the No. 1 guy. Because of the Seminoles’ up and down year, Cook’s 2,200-plus total yards and 20 total touchdowns went relatively overlooked in the Heisman Trophy discussion, but NFL scouts are already in love with this guy.

Cook is a pure home-run hitter who has the big-play potential of a guy like Chris Johnson during his time with the Tennessee Titans. He has elite vision and acceleration with the ability to reach top speed five yards downfield, burning by defenders for huge plays.

Despite being listed at 5-foot-11 and 213 pounds, Cook has an extremely strong lower body that makes it hard for defenders to go low on him. This play probably showcases the best of what Cook can bring to an NFL team.

Ball security was a problem for Cook earlier in his college career, but it appears that he’s fixed those issues. There are few weaknesses for Cook when he’s on the field, but like any explosive college running back, his speed might not translate to the next level.

Still, the holes in Cook’s game are few and far between, and he’s almost guaranteed to be a first-round pick.