Three under-the-radar RB prospects teams must target in the 2023 NFL Draft
Since taking a running back in the first round is becoming a riskier proposition, several talented prospects could fall through the cracks during the NFL Draft.
As a result, teams who select a RB later in the draft may find a hidden gem in a class stacked at the position.
"The real beauty of the 2023 running back class, however, lies with its quantity as well as its quality," wrote Fox Sports draft analyst Rob Rang.
In advance of the draft, here are three under-the-radar RB prospects teams should target.
Roschon Johnson, Texas
At Texas, the spotlight focused on Johnson's backfield partner, 2022 Doak Walker Award winner and projected first-rounder Bijan Robinson. However, Johnson, a projected Day 3 pick per ESPN's Jordan Reid, could shine when he reaches the next level.
Per Pro Football Focus, his 45 percent forced missed tackle rate over the past two seasons led all FBS RBs with at least 190 attempts. In 2022, he averaged six yards per carry on 93 rushing attempts, close to Robinson's total (6.1 yards per carry on 258 carries).
He's big for an RB (6-foot and 219 pounds), making him a prototypical power back that an offense can depend on. His size should make him a natural tackle-breaker, which can help him develop into a potent weapon.
DeWayne McBride, UAB
Although McBride didn't play for a Power Five school, his production is hard to ignore. In 12 games last season, he rushed for the second-most yards in the FBS (1,713) and tied for third in rushing TDs (19).
He has a blend of size (5-foot-10 and 209 pounds) and agility. Per PFF, he posted the site's second-highest elusiveness grade (150.4) behind Robinson and recorded 4.6 yards after contact, the best among all RBs in the class.
According to Draft Network, McBride is a fifth-round value. Therefore, a team could feel comfortable selecting him there and polishing him into a solid, productive back.
Devon Achane, Texas A&M
Achane is a lean back (5-foot-8 and 188 pounds) but makes up for his small stature with blazing speed. At the combine, he ran a 4.32 40-yard dash, the fastest among RBs and third among all players.
Per Draft Network, Achane, a fourth-round value, was one of four RBs in the SEC to eclipse 1,000 rushing yards (1,102 yards in 12 games) and averaged more than 31 yards on 20 kickoff returns in college.
His slight frame will scare some teams, but his big-play ability is an X factor. It allows offensive coordinators to use him in various formations and means he can quickly flip momentum with an electric play.
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