The NFL Draft is always a thrilling event for fans, players, and teams alike. The first round is usually where the spotlight shines brightest, with the top prospects being selected. However, the second round is equally important and can often yield some hidden gems. This year, the second round is expected to be dominated by running backs. Here’s a mock draft of the second round, including potential trades.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina
The Jaguars have the first pick in the second round and they could use it to bolster their running game. Williams is a powerful runner with great vision and balance. He could be a perfect complement to James Robinson and give Trevor Lawrence another weapon in the backfield.
2. New York Jets: Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson
The Jets need a dynamic playmaker in their backfield and Etienne fits the bill perfectly. He has elite speed and is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He could be a game-changer for the Jets’ offense.
3. Atlanta Falcons (Trade with Miami Dolphins): Najee Harris, RB, Alabama
In this mock trade scenario, the Falcons move up to grab Harris, who many consider the best running back in this draft class. Harris is a complete back who can run, catch, and block. He would be an immediate upgrade for the Falcons’ running game.
4. Philadelphia Eagles: Kenneth Gainwell, RB, Memphis
The Eagles could use another playmaker in their backfield and Gainwell could be their man. He’s an explosive runner with great hands out of the backfield. He could form a dynamic duo with Miles Sanders.
5. Cincinnati Bengals: Trey Sermon, RB, Ohio State
The Bengals need to add depth to their running back room and Sermon would be a great fit. He’s a powerful runner who can break tackles and has good speed. He could be a nice complement to Joe Mixon.
6. Carolina Panthers: Chuba Hubbard, RB, Oklahoma State
The Panthers could use a backup for Christian McCaffrey and Hubbard could be their man. He’s a speedy back with good vision and could provide a nice change of pace for the Panthers’ offense.
7. Denver Broncos: Michael Carter, RB, North Carolina
The Broncos could use another running back to pair with Melvin Gordon and Carter could be a great fit. He’s an elusive runner with good speed and could add another dimension to the Broncos’ offense.
8. Detroit Lions: Jaret Patterson, RB, Buffalo
The Lions need a power back to complement D’Andre Swift and Patterson fits the bill. He’s a tough runner who can grind out yards and could be a valuable asset in the Lions’ backfield.
9. New York Giants: Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, Oklahoma
The Giants could use a big back to complement Saquon Barkley and Stevenson could be their man. He’s a powerful runner who can break tackles and has good speed for his size.
10. San Francisco 49ers: Demetric Felton, RB, UCLA
The 49ers love versatile backs and Felton fits the bill. He’s an explosive runner who can also line up as a receiver. He could be a valuable weapon in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
In conclusion, the second round of the NFL Draft is expected to be dominated by running backs. These players could have a significant impact on their respective teams and it will be interesting to see where they end up.