Cotton Bowl 2021: Top 4 2022 NFL draft prospects to watch

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Dec 4, 2021; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Brian Robinson Jr. (4) runs the ball against the Georgia Bulldogs in the second half during the SEC championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Brian Robinson Jr., RB, Alabama

Much like Darrian Beavers, running back Brian Robinson Jr. is the running back that adds to a roster. Robinson, a redshirt senior, had to wait his turn behind Damien Harris, Bo Scarborough, Najee Harris, and Josh Jacobs.

Though the running game was not dynamic in Tuscaloosa, Robinson did manage to run for over 1,000 yards over 1,300 yards from scrimmage. Robinson has the potential to make an NFL roster because of his versatility.

Robinson is a three-down running back with the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield and block on blitz pick-up when needed. Robinson is not a workhorse like Breece Hall or Sincere McCormick but can contribute as a rotational back in a multiple back system.

Because the NFL has become a passing league, teams covet running backs with the ability to run out of the shotgun, catch the ball out of the backfield and line up like a wide receiver; Robinson can do both.

Most draft boards have the fifth-year senior as the top running back prospect with a second-round grade. Expect Robinson, Texas A&M’s Isaiah Spiller, or Iowa State’s Breece Hall to be the first running back off the board in April.

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