2021 NFL Draft: Breaking down the top three running backs

Michael Carter #8 of the North Carolina Tar Heels (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
Michael Carter #8 of the North Carolina Tar Heels (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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Steelers
Travis Etienne #9 of the Clemson Tigers (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images) /

Travis Etienne, Clemson

Etienne is the most all-around back in this draft class. He truly is polished both in catching and running the football. Clemson has been a powerhouse ever since Trevor Lawrence joined but Etienne was a constant producer for that team. He was electric with his high-end speed and elusiveness. He is a lighter back at 205 pounds but that helps him with his game. The physicality could be there more at points but his speed helps him avoid those contact situations. During his last two seasons at college, he ran for over 2,500 yards and 33 rushing touchdowns. Then he showed his explosiveness in the passing game with around 1,000 yards receiving and six touchdowns caught.

He is the best all-around prospect at this position in the NFL draft. He and the number one ranked back are as close as they come. It will depend more on what teams want more in their running game rather than which player is better. They are very close and Etienne will be an electric player in any offense that he ends up in. He will be a first-round choice in this year’s draft and it will be a surprise if he is still on the board when the second day begins.