NFL Draft 2010: Rating the Top 10 Running Backs of the Draft

While not a particularly strong draft for running backs, the 2010 NFL Draft still features a half a dozen runners who should get significant playing time this year, given that most NFL teams are now using a multiple back system. Here then is a list of the top 10 running backs available for this year's draft.

C.J. Spiller (Clemson)

C.J. Spiller is scary fast having clocked 4.27 for the 40, and though at 5-11, 197 lbs he has a slight built for the position, the success of players like Chris Johnson over the past few years should make it easier for teams to take a first round shot at Spiller. With good vision, patience, and great agility, C.J. should easily be the first back chosen at the 2010 NFL Draft. The fact that he is a dangerous kick returner, as well as an explosive pass catcher out of the backfield, only makes him more attractive to prospective NFL teams.

Ryan Mathews (Fresno State)

A well rounded player who can run inside the tackles and has the speed (4.37 for the 40) to go around the ends as well, Ryan Mathews lead the NCAA in rushing last season. At 5-11, 220 lbs, he is bigger than Spiller and comes with the added ability to break tackles. Mathews shows good instincts and balance as a runner, and has great hands as a receiver. A possible first round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, Mathews should enjoy a productive NFL career with whatever teams takes him.

Jahvid Best (California)

A running back built along the lines of Reggie Bush, the 5-11, 195 lbs Best has the speed (4.35 for the 40), agility, and vision to be an electrifying outside runner. Inside, his size will keep him from being effective, though he can still make his way through traffic. To add to his value, Best has a good pair of hands and can be used effectively as a receiver out of the backfield. Though he most likely will go in the second round of the draft, he may yet be a surprised first round pick.

Ben Tate (Auburn)

A runner whose stock has been steadily on the rise, the 5-11, 215 lbs Tate is a downhill runner with excellent speed (4.34 for the 40 at the Combine) who enjoyed an outstanding career at Auburn, where he compiled 3,321 yards rushing. Powerful enough to break tackles, as well as provide protection for the quarterback during pass plays, Tate may find his way to the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft.

Jonathan Dwyer (Georgia Tech)

After a disappointing Combine where he ran 4.64 for the 40, Dwyer went on to show NFL scouts he is worthy of first day consideration by clocking 4.51 at his Pro Day workout. At 5-11, 230 lbs, Dwyer is a strong, no-nonsense runner who will make his living running between the tackles in the NFL. Able to run with a good forward lean and a low center of gravity, Dwyer has the ability to break tackles and finish off his runs. Look for Dwyer to go by the late second round.

Toby Gerhart (Stanford)

After a spectacular Senior season at Stanford in which he rushed for 1,871 yards and 27 touchdowns, Gerhart finished second in the race for 2010 Heisman. A powerful inside runner, the 6-0, 230 lbs Gerhart has the size and speed to be successful at the next level. An excellent blocker as well, Gerhart should be able to pickup playing time once he is selected. Look for Toby to go somewhere in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft.

Anthony Dixon (Mississippi State)

At 6-1, 235 lbs, Anthony Dixon is a load to bring down. An effective inside runner who can lower his pads and use his leg strength to move the pile, Dixon is a versatile receiver out of the backfield as well. The all-time leading rusher at Mississippi State where he gained 3,994 yards during his career, Dixon is a durable workhorse who should go in the third or fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft.

Joe McKnight (USC)

Chances are McKnight won't make you remember the great USC Trojan runners of the past. Having said that, McKnight possess the speed and agility to make it in the NFL. However, NFL scouts will have enough concerns over his slight built and toughness, that he should go no higher than the fourth round of the Draft.

Montario Hardesty (Tennessee)

A big Senior season in which he rushed for 1,345 yards put Hardesty on the radar of NFL scouts. Since then, Hardesty has done nothing but help his cause with a strong showing at the Combine. Strong enough to run between the tackles, Hardesty also shows the good balance, vision and speed needed to succeed at the next level.

Lonyae Miller (Fresno State)

Though Ryan Mathews got all the attention at Fresno State last season, Lonyae Miller will still be considered a desirable option for most teams drafting this season. Miller has the size, acceleration and speed to make it in the NFL. Look for his stock to steadily rise quickly as it gets closer to Draft day.

Statistical Sources:

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/melkiper/index