Unlike the quarterback situation, there are some major Division 1 schools that have running backs looking to make a difference in the draft class of 2014. The top quarterbacks were coming mostly from schools you wouldn't expect. The running backs are a little different.
#1 Ka'Deem Carey (Arizona)
Carey, according to most experts, is projected to be the first running back drafted. Most think he won't go till late in the first or early in the second, but that doesn't mean he won't make an instant impact in the NFL. Carey rushed for over 100 yards in all of his games in the 2013-14 season. Two of which were over 200 yards. It's safe to say that his biggest game may have been against a strong Oregon team where he rushed for 206 yards and scored four touchdowns in their punishing blow to the Ducks. Realistically I see Carey going to the Browns who have a late first round draft pick from the Colts, or possibly the Carolina Panthers. I would say New England would be interested, but they need a line much more importantly than another back.
#2 Bishop Sankey (Washington)
Sankey is an underrated back out of the University of Washington. He ran for almost 1,800 yards and scored 18 times. He also caught 25 passes for 298 yards. He is a multipurpose back who will make a big difference for what ever team he gets drafted by. He is projected to get drafted in the second round. But don't be surprised if he goes higher.
#3 Andre Williams (Boston College)
Williams was one of the nominees for the Heisman trophy this year. He didn't walk away with it, but being invited is an honor. Williams ran for over 2,100 yards at BC and for 18 touchdowns. He was the only form of offense Boston College had, so being a reliable back shouldn't be a problem. He is projected to go in the second or third round, it would be shocking if he goes in the first round, but there is no doubt he can run with the ball, so look out for him in the future.
#4 Tre Mason (Auburn)
Mason helped lead the Auburn Tigers to a BCS Championship appearance. The Tigers fell short, but they had an incredible year with him as the main back. Mason, like Williams, was a nominee for the Heisman and was not successful on winning it. Mason ran for over 1,600 yards and 22 touchdowns. He was a very popular back, and is projected to be drafted in the second round. I see Williams more valuable, so that's why he is in front of Mason. There is a good chance for Mason to go in front of all three of these backs, but I don't see it.
#5 Carlos Hyde (Ohio State)
Hyde could prove to be a valuable pick up in this years draft. Hyde ran for over 1,500 yards and scored 15 times. He didn't put up incredible stats like the others listed, but to average over 100 yards a game in the Big Ten is still very impressive. Hyde helped lead the Buckeyes to the Big Ten Championship game, where they fell short to Michigan State. The Buckeyes also were beaten by Clemson in their bowl game. Hyde put up some good stats through his years at the Horseshoe, and could be a very valuable selection this year. Look for Hyde to go in round three or four.
There are many good backs going in this years draft. A few of them may go in the first round, but not many. Not because of a lack of talent, but more because of the already tough NFL back lineups.
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