2017 NFL Draft: Top 10 Running Backs after Bowl Season
By Tyler Brooke
With so many running backs in this draft class, some are naturally flying under the radar. Considering he came into the 2016 season as a backup behind Jalen Hurd, Tennessee’s Alvin Kamara is someone who definitely isn’t getting the recognition that he deserves.
Kamara doesn’t have the wear and tear that some of the running back prospects have, carrying the ball just 210 times in two years while catching 74 passes. That doesn’t mean he wasn’t productive for the Volunteers, scoring 23 total touchdowns while averaging 6.2 yards per carry and 9.2 yards per reception.
When I turn on the tape and watch Kamara, I’m blown away by his balance and ability to stay upright through contact. His excellent footwork helps him get through the hole and extend plays to make big plays.
The Volunteers running back can do it all, whether that’s running the ball, making catches out of the backfield or blocking in pass protection. Perhaps the only legitimate knock on Kamara is that he’s a jack of all trades, but a master of none.
Some teams might not be looking for that kind of running back, but for teams who need a guy that can do a little bit of it all, Kamara is an excellent option. I’m not sure that he’s going to become a workhorse anywhere in the NFL, but this is the kind of guy who is the perfect option to be an RB2 with the opportunity to get plenty of touches on a weekly basis.