The Jacksonville Jaguars found more than just a gem in undrafted rookie running back James Robinson.

Through his first 12 career games, Robinson may have already emerged as one of the best backs in football.

Inarguably, Robinson has been among the most productive runners. Entering Week 14, the 5'10, 220-pound tailback ranks third in the NFL in rushing yards (968) and attempts (212). He's averaged 4.6 yards per carry and ran for seven TDs, and has added 310 receiving yards and two more scores.

For perspective, as former general manager and analyst Mike Tannenbaum pointed out, that's more rushing yards than New Orleans Saints star Alvin Kamara and more yards per game than Green Bay Packers' Aaron Jones. Robinson's yards after contract is third-best in football (more than Kareem Hunt), and his 42 receptions are seventh-most by a halfback.

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The 22-year old Illinois State alum was thrust into a larger role in the Jaguars backfield just before the 2020 season began. Jacksonville released former no. 4 overall pick Leonard Fournette two weeks before Week 1, while RB Ryquell Armstead has missed the season due to multiple COVID-related hospital stints.

In an otherwise tough season in Jacksonville that has seen the team lose 11 games in a row, Robinson has been a lone bright spot and far and away the team's most consistent performer.

“James is the real deal,” Jaguars quarterback Mike Glennon said. “He’s a legit starting running back in the NFL. The thing I love about James is he never has lost yards. He’s always falling forward. He turns what could be second-and-10s into second-and-6s, and those add up over time.”

The Jaguars host the Tennessee Titans in Week 14, giving Robinson a chance to prove himself opposite the league's current rushing leader, Derrick Henry.