2015 NFL Draft: Top Running Back Prospects Available For the Baltimore Ravens

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Dec 27, 2014; Shreveport, LA, USA; Miami Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson (8) rushes during the first quarter as South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Sharrod Golightly (9) attempts a tackle in the 2014 Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Duke Johnson, Miami, 5’9″ 207 LBS

Duke has rare ability on stretch plays to hit cutback lanes that other backs can’t get to. He was one of the most explosive runners in college football. He runs with patience and possesses the ability to burst through holes. Duke shows no fear as a runner and plays with toughness. He will fight through contact and arm tackles.

Johnson has impressive acceleration and is very agile and light on his feet. He has soft hands and can get downfield on wheel routes and contribute in the passing game. He is a speed back who can take any carry to the end zone. Johnson has a very effective stiff arm and can block in pass protection.

In college, Johnson ran for 3,519 yards with an average of 6.7 yards per carry and he racked up 26 rushing touchdowns. Duke also had 719 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns. He has been compared to former Philadelphia Eagles’ running back LeSean McCoy and is seen as a zone-scheme back.

Johnson is an explosive back and his elusiveness should help him to adapt to the speed of the NFL. He should be able to contribute straight away as a change of pace back, but only time will tell if he can carry the load as an every down back. He will need to brush up on his pass-protection skills at the next level if that is to be the case.

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