Editor's note: The Union-Tribune's Eddie Brown is breaking down prospects, position by position, leading up to the NFL draft (April 25-27). Here are his top 10 running backs, plus "bonus" players he believes will be drafted or signed as a priority free agent:

———

— 1. Jonathon Brooks (So., Texas, 6-foot, 216 pounds)

Brooks is a former four-star recruit currently recovering from a torn ACL suffered back in November, but is expected to be ready for his first NFL training camp. Prior to the injury, I had Brooks as my top running back prospect in this draft class, but expected him to return to school after he hurt his knee. He still looks like the best option in a weaker running back class because of his dynamic, all-purpose skill set. Plus, his tires are full of tread, given he has just 238 collegiate carries, averaging north of 6.0 yards per carry in each of his three seasons in Austin. Projected: Rounds 2-3

— 2. Blake Corum (Sr., Michigan, 5-7, 205)

The former four-star recruit became a two-time All-American (unanimous his junior season) and team captain for the Wolverines. Corum makes up for his smaller frame with excellent footwork, and his low center of gravity makes him hard to target directly. He's been highly productive for the national champions (58 career rushing touchdowns) and has natural hands as a receiver. He isn't going to outrun everybody, but his vision, patience, toughness and decision-making balance the scales. Projected: Rounds 2-3

— 3. Trey Benson (Jr., Florida State, 6-0, 216)

This former three-star recruit transferred from Oregon after two seasons (and a major knee injury). Benson is a chiseled, relentless runner with track speed, but he's a work in progress on passing downs. Although, his big-play ability is omnipresent. He scored three touchdowns of 80-plus yards (in three different ways) for the Seminoles. Benson had just two seasons of collegiate wear and tear, and he only hit the 20-carry mark in one game. Projected: Rounds 2-3

— 4. Jaylen Wright (Jr., Tennessee, 5-10, 210)

Wright didn't start a single game for the Volunteers his sophomore season, but he led the team in rushing nonetheless with 875 yards and 10 TDs. He did it again as a full-time starter his junior season, gaining more yards (1,013) despite fewer carries, leading all FBS running backs in yards per carry (7.4). Wright is an explosive back with good size and breakaway speed, a quarter of his runs went for 10-plus yards (tops in the FBS). Mastering pass-protection and securing the football will determine whether he reaches his full potential in the pros. Projected: Rounds 2-3

...continued

©2024 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Visit sandiegouniontribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.