Title: Debunking the Myth: No, a Runner is Not Worth a Top 10 Draft Pick
The National Football League (NFL) draft is an annual event that serves as the league’s most common source of player recruitment. Each team is given a position in the drafting order in reverse order relative to its record in the previous year, which means that the last place team is positioned first. Over the years, there has been a debate on whether a running back (RB) is worth a top 10 draft pick. While running backs are essential to the game, there are several reasons why they may not be the best choice for a top 10 pick.
1. The NFL is a Passing League
In the modern era of football, the NFL has evolved into a passing league. Quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends have become more critical than ever. The game’s rules have been modified to favor passing, and teams are adapting their strategies accordingly. This shift diminishes the value of running backs in the top 10 picks.
2. Running Backs Have Shorter Careers
Running backs have one of the shortest average career lengths of any position in the NFL. According to the NFL Players Association, the average career length for a running back is just 2.57 years, compared to 3.3 years for all positions. This short career span is due to the physical toll that the position takes on players. Investing a top 10 pick in a player who may only play for a few years doesn’t provide long-term value for teams.
3. Running Backs are Injury Prone
Due to the nature of their position, running backs are more prone to injuries than players in other positions. They often face direct hits from defenders, which can lead to injuries that sideline them for games or even seasons. A top 10 pick should ideally be used on a player who can contribute consistently over several seasons, and the injury risk associated with running backs makes them a less reliable choice.
4. Quality Running Backs Can Be Found Later in the Draft
History has shown that teams can find quality running backs in later rounds of the draft. For example, Terrell Davis, a former Denver Broncos running back and Hall of Famer, was a sixth-round pick. Similarly, Arian Foster, an undrafted free agent, led the NFL in rushing in 2010. This suggests that teams can find productive running backs without using a top 10 pick.
5. The Value of Other Positions
The value of a top 10 pick can be maximized by selecting players in other positions. Quarterbacks, left tackles, and defensive ends are often considered more valuable due to their impact on the game. These positions are critical to both offensive and defensive success, making them a better investment for a top 10 pick.
In conclusion, while running backs play a crucial role in football, they may not be the best choice for a top 10 draft pick. The evolution of the game towards passing, the short career span and injury risk of running backs, and the potential to find quality runners later in the draft all contribute to this perspective. Therefore, teams should consider these factors when making their top 10 draft pick decisions.