Just about every expert on Planet Earth has former LSU Tigers running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire coming off the board somewhere in the early-to-middle portion of second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Most teams are already set at the running back position. So it will be interesting to see how many rushers are selected ahead of the former LSU standout and when the first one of the bunch ultimately comes off the board. Which could very well be the second round.
Despite the fact that Edwards-Helaire is unlikely to be selected in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, there is no doubt that the up-and-coming running back will have an immediate impact for whatever team eventually inherits his services. There are two fundamental reasons for this. Edwards-Helaire can quickly become one of the best third-down backs in the entire league. There is also a decent chance that he is selected by an already talented NFL franchise. That would only further the notion that he will succeed right off the bat.
Because Edwards-Helaire notably lined up at the running back position in a spread offense for the aforementioned Tigers, he is more than equipped to serve as a workhorse running back. If you need a few yards or a burst through the line of scrimmage for a huge gain, the former collegiate superstar can get it done. Not only that, but he also lined up in the slot in empty sets for LSU and obviously brings a ton of athleticism to the table. With that in mind and due to his ability to catch the football out of the backfield, Edwards-Helaire can immediately serve as one of the top third-down backs in the entire NFL — even as a rookie.
Aiding such a notion, if Edwards-Helaire is selected by a team that can use some depth at running back and is already in position to compete in 2020, the former LSU rusher will be in an ideal situation on all fronts. For example, he can land with a team like the Tennessee Titans.
The Titans already have Derrick Henry as its starting, three-down back. But there is no doubt that Edwards-Helaire can have a positive effect for a playoff-caliber team. He can see just the right amount of playing time to ease him into the professional ranks of the NFL.
Honorable Mention:
- RB J.K. Dobbins, Ohio State Buckeyes
- Whatever team lands former Ohio State running back J.K. Dobbins will be lucky. However, it remains to be seen as to whether or not he can be an every-down back right off the bat.
- WR Tee Higgins, Clemson Tigers
- With all of the super high-profile wide outs slated to come off the board very early, teams shouldn't sleep on former Clemson Tigers wide receiver Tee Higgins, who can also do some spectacular things on the football field.
- EDGE Zack Baun, Wisconsin Badgers
- A fringe first round talent, former Wisconsin Badgers edge rusher Zack Baun can surely have an immediate impact for a team next season regardless of where he ultimately comes off the board.
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