Packers: Aaron Jones listed as future star in NFL running back rankings
Future Five
Aaron Jones (Green Bay Packers): Jones played like a superstar in a few games last year. At his peak, his explosiveness and power reminded me of Marshawn Lynch or the Eddie Lacy that won offensive rookie of the year.
I expect him to begin the season splitting carries with Jamaal Williams, but as the season goes on I could see Jones becoming the workhorse in the Packers offense. He will need to work on his ability as a receiving threat, but if he can get that in order he has the making of a real difference maker for years to come.
Rashaad Penny (Seattle Seahawks): I was initially very surprised and confused with the Penny pick, but after watching a little bit of him playing at San Diego State, I definitely understand why they drafted him.
He is a big back, who isn’t the fastest, but he has great field vision and can return kicks. He landed in a good spot, as Russell Wilson will be the main focus for opposing defenses and he won’t have a ton of pressure early on.
Bryce Love (Stanford Cardinal): Love was an absolute force in college football last year, rushing for 2,133 yards, per Sports Reference.
Love had a chance at the Heisman last year, and as he enters his final college football season, I think he has to be considered one of the frontrunners for the prestigious award this year.
The 2019 running back class won’t be quite as exciting as the 2018 one was, but I could see Love getting drafted in the first round if he has a good season.
Ronald Jones (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): I felt like Jones was a first-round talent in the 2018 class, and Tampa Bay was very lucky to get him in the second round. Jones isn’t inheriting the greatest quarterback or offensive line situation, but despite this I still think he could contend for offensive rookie of the year.
His presence will definitely help Jameis Winston, as he will be a solid receiving threat for him. These aren’t fantasy rankings, but he would definitely be worth a serious look in PPR-oriented leagues.
Joe Mixon (Cincinnati Bengals): Mixon had a pretty good rookie season, and I think his numbers will improve this year, especially with Jeremy Hill gone.
The Bengals will be relying a ton on the run game this season as I think they are losing confidence in Andy Dalton. Mixon is a superior back to Giovani Bernard, and I think his carries this year will show that.