2010 NFL Draft Position Rankings - Top 5 Running Backs

1. C.J. Spiller, Clemson
5'11", 195 lbs, 4.35
Spiller fits the mold of the type of back NFL teams covet in today's pass-happy league. Spiller is fast, versatile, and can catch out of the backfield. Should be able to step right in and play a Felix Jones type role for a team by providing a solid complement to an established back and return kickoffs, and has a ceiling perhaps as high as a Chris Johnson type player.    

2. Jahvid Best, Cal 
5'10", 195 lbs, 4.39
Best is another great fit for what NFL offenses try to do on Sundays, but there is cause for concern due to some scary injuries he suffered this past season at Cal. Although he's almost the same exact size as Spiller, Best seems to have far more durability issues and probably won't be able to be featured as much on the next level. Having said that, he's the type of explosive player that a lot of teams are looking for. 

3. Ryan Mathews, Fresno State 
5'11", 220 lbs, 4.45
Mathews' production at Fresno State was incredible, and he has the tools to be a Ray Rice type back in the NFL. While he doesn't have the sheer speed of Spiller or Best, Mathews is explosive in and out of his cuts, has great acceleration, never fumbles (3 fumbles in 535 career carries) and breaks tackles better than anyone in this class. His lack of experience in the passing game means he's not the most versatile back in this class, but he may be the best pure runner available. Whoever team drafts him in the second round will be very happy.

4. Joe McKnight, USC
6'0", 200 lbs, 4.39
McKnight, like Best and Spiller, has two attributes that should translate to the pro game: speed and versatility. His extreme speed and agility should get him onto the field very early in his career and could make for a surprisingly productive NFL career if he's paired with the right coaching staff. He has several problem areas that need to be addressed (ball security, dancing in the backfield, vision), but his physical attributes mean he could make an impact if he really works hard at the next level. 

5. LaMarcus Coker, Hampton
5'11", 205 lbs, 4.30
Coker, if he truly has left his demons in his past, has the potential to be the steal of this draft. He has God-given speed and is a threat to take it to the house from anywhere on the field. Very versatile - great receiver out of the backfield. Shows very good blocking ability for a back his size. Coker hasn't played against D-I talent in two seasons, but has as much physical ability as anyone in this draft. Boom or bust prospect.