2017 NFL Draft: Top 10 Running Backs after Bowl Season

The Oklahoma Sooners had a pair of talented running backs this season, and both will more than likely be playing in the NFL next year. Samaje Perine is the less talked about of the two prospects, but that shouldn’t take away from what he brings to the table.

Despite missing three games this year, Perine still ran for 1,060 yards while scoring 13 total touchdowns. His 86 yards against Auburn in the Sugar Bowl helped him break Oklahoma’s school record for career rushing yards, passing Billy Sims.

Perine runs like a man on the mission when the ball is in his hands, powering through defenders with his 5-foot-10, 235-pound frame. He’s a tough, downhill runner who is more than capable of breaking tackles and picking up yards after contact.

With that kind of frame, Perine isn’t the kind of guy who is going to outrun defenders or hit top speed at the line of scrimmage. There is also the matter of his 685 carries at Oklahoma. That’s a lot of wear and tear on a physical running back.

Perine could be drafted higher than I expect, but the fact is that his play style isn’t sustainable for more than a few seasons at the next level after carrying the load for so long at Oklahoma. Having said that, teams looking for a bruising back to give 10-15 carries a game to in a committee approach could definite use Perine’s services.