Running backs are the cornerstone of many offensive schemes in football, providing both a ground attack and support in the passing game. As the 2022 NFL Draft approached, scouts and analysts spent countless hours scrutinizing the latest crop of talent to determine which players had the potential to shape the future of their franchises. The selection of a running back, with their blend of speed, power, agility, and vision, could rejuvenate an offense or even alter the balance of power within a division. As we reflect on this specific draft class, it’s clear certain individuals stood out from the rest with their collegiate production and athleticism suggesting a promising pro career.
#10: Rachaad White, Arizona State
Rachaad White emerged from Arizona State as one of the more intriguing running back prospects in the 2022 draft. With a blend of size and agility, White proved himself to be a versatile asset in both the rushing and receiving game. In his final collegiate season, he showcased his ability to find gaps and exploit them for significant gains. While he may need to refine his skills in pass protection to become a more complete back in the NFL, his potential in the open field and as a reliable check-down option makes him a name to remember.
#9: Pierre Strong Jr., South Dakota State
South Dakota State may not be a powerhouse in the college football landscape, but Pierre Strong Jr. put the Jackrabbits on the map. Strong Jr. has an enticing combination of speed and productivity. He dominated the FCS level with his breakaway speed, recording impressive figures in yards per carry and showcasing a nose for the end zone. Teams in search of a home-run threat out of the backfield likely kept a close eye on Strong Jr. as the draft approached.
#8: Kyren Williams, Notre Dame
Kyren Williams from Notre Dame carved out a reputational as an all-purpose back who can shoulder the load in a multifaceted offensive attack. While his raw athleticism might not leap off the screen, Williams makes up for it with exceptional balance, vision, and pass-catching ability. He’s known as a tough runner who isn’t afraid to battle for extra yards, and his willingness to take on blockers in pass protection makes him a potential three-down player in the NFL.
#7: Zamir White, Georgia
Out of the powerhouse Georgia Bulldogs program, Zamir White declared for the draft, ready to bring his powerful running style to the professional ranks. Known as “Zeus” to many enthusiasts, White is a downhill runner with the ability to wear down defenses as the game progresses. Accustomed to playing against some of the stiffest competition in college football, he’s no stranger to high-pressure situations and could offer instant reliability to an NFL backfield.
#6: Tyler Allgeier, BYU
Tyler Allgeier was one of the more productive backs in the nation during his time at Brigham Young University. A workhorse back, Allgeier amassed an impressive number of carries, yards, and touchdowns. He’s not the flashiest of players, but his consistency and endurance are noteworthy. Allgeier’s ability to remain effective even with a heavy workload is particularly appealing for teams that favor a ground-and-pound approach.
#5: James Cook, Georgia
The younger brother of established NFL star Dalvin Cook, Georgia’s James Cook entered the draft with a notable pedigree and plenty of his own accomplishments. Cook brings versatility to the table, exhibiting proficiency as a runner and receiver. With a smooth running style and the capacity to create mismatches against linebackers in the passing game, Cook offers the potential of an exciting dual-threat option for offenses looking for multiplicity.
#4: Isaiah Spiller, Texas A&M
Representing Texas A&M, Isaiah Spiller stood out as an all-around prospect with the polish expected of an NFL starter. Possessing a well-rounded skill set that includes power, quickness, and pass-catching ability, Spiller seemed poised for success at the next level. He displayed patience in waiting for his blocks to develop, coupled with the explosiveness to capitalize once they did. Spiller’s ability to contribute in various facets of the game could make him a valuable piece in any offensive coordinator’s playbook.
#3: Kenneth Walker III, Michigan State
Kenneth Walker III took the college football world by storm at Michigan State, solidifying himself as one of the top backs in the nation. With phenomenal footwork, vision, and breakaway speed, Walker possesses the traits of a premier running back. His ability to change direction without significant loss of speed and his potency in shedding tackles makes him a threat anytime he touches the football.
#2: Breece Hall, Iowa State
As the draft conversation heated up, Breece Hall’s name was frequently mentioned near the top. The Iowa State product brought an impressive college resume, highlighted by his knack for finding the end zone. Hall has the build and athleticism of an every-down back, with reassuring ball security and the capability to contribute on all three downs. His blend of size, speed, and agility, coupled with strong production against reputable defenses, made him an appealing option for any team looking to bolster their run game.
#1: Kenneth Gainwell, Memphis
At the apex of the 2022 running back class stood Kenneth Gainwell, out of Memphis, a dynamic force in both rushing and receiving aspects of the game. Gainwell’s exceptional agility and speed, combined with an uncanny ability to avoid tackles, put him in a tier of his own. In an era where the NFL values versatile running backs who can be just as effective catching the ball as they are taking handoffs, Gainwell’s proficiency across the board made him an extremely coveted prospect.
As we conclude our list of the top 10 running backs of the 2022 NFL Draft, it’s crucial to remember that success at the next level is determined not only by raw talent but also by factors such as fit within a team’s scheme, work ethic, and the ability to adjust to the speed and complexity of the professional game. The players listed here possess the foundational skills that made them stand out as top draft prospects, and with the right development, they might just become the next generation of NFL stars.