Maurice Jones-Drew ranks running backs in 2024 NFL Draft class

Benson is the consensus as the No. 1 running back in the NFL Draft. But he will go no higher than the second round.

Jones-Drew says Benson “has the potential to be a reliable three-down back in the league. He runs the gap scheme very well, has good patience and vision, and possesses great speed, as he posted the third-fastest 40-yard dash (4.39) among running backs at the 2024 NFL Combine.”

Will Shipley Clemson

Shipley is somewhat of a surprise to go this high amongst the running backs. Another scout called him a “complementary back. “

“Shipley is a versatile player with the ability to contribute at the next level as a runner, pass catcher and returner,” Jones Drew said. “Right now, the Clemson product has the goods to be a solid RB2, but he could develop into a three-down back down the road.”

Blake Corum Michigan

If Corum has one big talent, it is scoring touchdowns. His 27 scores led college football last season. Maybe his old coach, Jim Harbaugh, brings him to LA by selecting him in the NFL Draft.

Says Jones Drew “Corum is a strong runner with above-average contact balance who thrives as a short-yardage back. ,,, He wasn’t used much as a pass catcher, but could certainly be an asset out of the backfield in the NFL.”

Frank Gore Jr Southern Miss

You can be intrigued by Gore if only for his bloodlines. Frank Gore Sr finished his career as No. 3 on the NFL rushing list.

“The son of future Hall of Fame running back Frank Gore is a tough, every-down runner who routinely makes the first guy miss,” Jones Drew said. “He displayed his good vision and quickness during his Offensive MVP performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl. And he has the ability to contribute in the pass game as a solid route runner with good hands.”

Jaylen Wright Tennessee

There is a consensus building for Wright be in the best five for the NFL Draft. Check out what another analyst had to say here.

“Wright, who models his game after fellow Tennessee alum Alvin Kamara, is an explosive runner with breakaway speed at the second level,” Jones Drew wrote … “With pass-catching talent to pair with his linear running style, Wright has a real chance to one day be an NFL starter.”

Next layer of backs in NFL Draft

Ray Davis Kentucky
Bucky Irving Oregon
Tyrone Tracy Florida
Jonathon Brooks Texas
Braelon Allen Wisconsin
MarShawn Lloyd USC
Jase McClellan Alabama
Rasheen Ali Marshall
Keilan Robinson Texas
Cody Schrader Missouri

Backs who need time to develop

Jawhar Jordan Louisville
Isaac Guerendo Louisville
Miyan Williams Ohio State
Dillon Johnson Washington
George Holani Boise State
Daijun Edwards Georgia
Kendall Milton Georgia
Audric Estimé Notre Dame
Isaiah Davis South Dakota State
Dylan Laube New Hampshire
Michael Wiley Arizona
Kimani Vidal Troy
Jaden Shirden Monmouth
Emani Bailey TCU

Remember, the NFL Draft is from April 25 through the 27th. But the first running back probably will not be off the board until the 26th. You can read the Jones Drew analysis on all these backs by clicking here.