The undervalued Lache Seastrunk tops Mike’s current 2014 running back rankings

By: Mike O’Connor, Staff Writer

It was depressing for us draft fans to patiently wait for a running back to emerge as a first round talent last year in college football, only to see a first round without one for the first time in 50 years.  The value of the position has obviously decreased over time with an evolving league, but it was still a shock to not see a running back talent who could come in and start for whomever drafted him.

Unfortunately, my first look at the 2014 class of running backs didn’t offer much hope for the 50 year trend to start up again (a first round back).  However, it is so early to even consider prospect’s ranges of where they could go in the actual draft.  Players will improve or decline in play, and some underclassmen will simply tease us and return to school.  With no clear front runner in this class in the backfield, let’s “sort” through some of the respectable backs and if their early hype is well-deserved or unwarranted.

(Note: I have only included those who I’ve taken a look at.  It is too early for in-depth scouting reports on players who aren’t top talents, so I’ll simply be pointing out some things to like and dislike with each one.  I’ll be updating this list as the year goes on and we see more tape and risers/fallers).

(more…)