By: Tim Rodriguez

For much of the season, Michigan State running back Kenneth Walker III was the prohibitive favorite to win the Heisman trophy. By the end of the season, Walker did not even get invited to New York for the ceremony. That should not take away from the magical season he just finished in which he topped over 1700 yards from scrimmage. Walker, along with Iowa State’s Breece Hall, look to be the first two running backs off the board this April. After those two is a long list of talented players. Could any of them challenge Walker or Hall for the top spot?

Kyren Williams, Notre Dame

Kyren Williams was an electrifying player for a Notre Dame team that featured several high level playmakers on both sides of the ball. Williams should be an appealing option for teams with a need for a third down back. Williams can pick up blitzers, catch passes out of the backfield and even run routes from the slot. Williams projects as a day two pick right now, but the first back selected last year less explosive than others, but excelled in the passing game.

Zach Charbonnet, UCLA

The transfer portal yields another success story. Formerly a Michigan Wolverine, Zach Charbonnet had a breakout season in 2021 for UCLA. With great vision to go along with his violent running style, he is always a big play threat despite not possessing elite speed. One of the best runners after contact, Charbonnet is a great option for almost every team in the league. 

Isaiah Spiller, Texas A&M

A preseason favorite, Isaiah Spiller still remains a highly touted running back prospect. One of the more versatile backs in the class, Spiller can shine in any type of scheme. Spiller is the definition of versatile. There is not much that he is elite at, but there are so many things that he does well. 

Potential late risers: Hassan Haskins, Michigan. Jashaun Corbin, Florida State. 

Haskins rose to prominence after some late season heroics following an injury to Blake Corum. Haskins lit the world on fire in the Wolverine’s first win against Ohio State since 2011. His big day in Columbus has propelled his stardom. Another big performance against Georgia in the playoff would go a long way. Florida State’s Jashaun Corbin burst on to the scene with big play after big play. Another player with third down ability, Corbin is a new age running back. A nice blend of speed and size, Corbin is a nice option as a player who was not given the ball much at the college level.

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