Round 1: Todd Gurley, University of Georgia
The first name when the running back position is discussed in regards to the 2015 NFL Draft, Gurley could have been a top 15 pick if not for his ACL tear late in the season. Gurley possessed a rare blend of speed and power before his injury, and if he can return to that form, Gurley could easily be a top running back in the NFL. The Panthers have experience with major ACL injuries (Thomas Davis, for one), and if they feel comfortable with Gurley's medical records and he is available at 25, he could absolutely be the pick.
Round 2: Tevin Coleman, Indiana University
A first team All-American last year, Coleman has incredible burst that allows him to explode through openings quickly. He is not very patient with his blocks and can some times get himself stuck behind blockers, leading to rushes for minimal gains. Coleman has the potential to break off a huge run every time he touches the ball and would be a great fit behind Carolina's power running scheme that wants runners going north-south rather than east-west.
Round 3: Jeremy Langford, Michigan State University
Langford is more about agility and speed than power, and would be best served as a complimentary running back in the NFL. A former wide receiver and cornerback, Langford can be an asset on passing downs as both a receiver and a blocker. He could certainly spell Stewart early on as he continues to develop his instincts as a runner.
Round 4: David Johnson, Northern Iowa University
He played against lesser competition in the Missouri Valley Conference, but Johnson has the look of an NFL running back at an athletic 6'1" and 224 pounds. With a 4.50 second 40 time and smooth pass catching skills, Johnson could help the Panthers out on passing downs immediately. With patience and a good strength and conditioning program, Johnson could become an above average starting running back for Carolina.
Round 5: Matt Jones, University of Florida
Mike Tolbert is going to be a 30-year-old free agent following the 2015 season, and he was sorely missed while injured last season. Matt Jones is a similar burly man out of the backfield and perhaps he can develop into solid lead blocker like Tolbert as well. If so, Jones will become an asset for the Panthers backfield.
Round 6: Cameron Artis-Payne, Auburn University
This draft does not have many great running back prospects in the later rounds. Artis-Payne spent only one year as a starter at Auburn University after playing at the junior college level and managed to total 1,608 yards. He does not have blazing speed, but Artis-Payne is one of the few late day three prospects that has starter potential.
Round 7: Malcolm Brown, University of Texas
I slotted Brown to the Panthers in the seventh round of my most recent mock draft, and he may be the only runner available that late worth the selection. Brown has the build and work ethic to become a solid backup capable of occasional spot starts.
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Homework - Leave a comment!
What round do you think the Panthers should take a running back? Do they even need to draft one?
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