Top 10 NFL Mock Draft: Who Will Be The Saints' Next Running Back?

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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Top 10 Running Back Prospects for the Saints

This mock draft focuses on running backs who could realistically be available when the Saints are on the clock. Here are ten players who could potentially fill the Saints' running back needs:

1. Bijan Robinson (Texas):

   • College: Texas
   • Key Stats: 1,580 rushing yards, 18 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Exceptional vision, power, and receiving ability. A three-down back.
   • Weaknesses: Durability concerns due to high collegiate workload.
   • Potential Draft Position: Top 15

2. Jahmyr Gibbs (Alabama):

   • College: Alabama
   • Key Stats: 926 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns, 444 receiving yards (2022)
   • Strengths: Elite speed and agility, excellent pass-catcher.
   • Weaknesses: Lacks size and power for consistent between-the-tackles running.
   • Potential Draft Position: Late first round

3. Zach Charbonnet (UCLA):

   • College: UCLA
   • Key Stats: 1,359 rushing yards, 13 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Powerful runner, good balance, capable receiver.
   • Weaknesses: Average speed, needs to improve pass protection.
   • Potential Draft Position: Second round

4. Devon Achane (Texas A&M):

   • College: Texas A&M
   • Key Stats: 1,102 rushing yards, 8 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Explosive speed and agility, home-run threat.
   • Weaknesses: Small stature, lacks power, pass-catching needs improvement.
   • Potential Draft Position: Third round

5. Kendre Miller (TCU):

   • College: TCU
   • Key Stats: 1,399 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Excellent vision, good burst, elusive runner.
   • Weaknesses: Needs to improve pass protection and receiving skills.
   • Potential Draft Position: Third/Fourth round

6. Tyjae Spears (Tulane):

   • College: Tulane
   • Key Stats: 1,581 rushing yards, 19 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Excellent balance, good vision, reliable runner.
   • Weaknesses: Lacks elite speed.
   • Potential Draft Position: Fourth/Fifth round

7. Roschon Johnson (Texas):

   • College: Texas
   • Key Stats: 555 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Durable, reliable, strong runner, excellent blocker.
   • Weaknesses: Lacks elite speed and agility.
   • Potential Draft Position: Fourth/Fifth round

8. Tank Bigsby (Auburn):

   • College: Auburn
   • Key Stats: 970 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Powerful runner, good between-the-tackles ability.
   • Weaknesses: Needs to improve pass catching and receiving skills.
   • Potential Draft Position: Fourth/Fifth round

9. Chase Brown (Illinois):

   • College: Illinois
   • Key Stats: 1,643 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns (2022)
   • Strengths: Consistent runner, good vision and balance.
   • Weaknesses: Average speed and agility.
   • Potential Draft Position: Fifth/Sixth round

10. Eric Gray (Oklahoma):

    • College: Oklahoma
    • Key Stats: 1,366 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns (2022)
    • Strengths: Good speed, quick cuts, elusive runner.
    • Weaknesses: Needs to improve power and pass protection.
    • Potential Draft Position: Fifth/Sixth round

Analyzing the Saints' Draft Needs and Strategy

The Saints' current running back depth chart includes Alvin Kamara, Jamaal Williams, and Tony Jones Jr. However, Kamara's future is uncertain, and the team needs a reliable back to complement their existing talent. The Saints are known for their smart drafting, prioritizing value and often focusing on players with character and versatility. Their draft capital will influence their choice; a higher pick might allow them to select one of the top prospects, while a later pick might lead them to a value player in the middle rounds. Free agency signings could also impact their running back selection in the draft.

Realistic Scenarios and Potential Draft Picks

The Saints could select a running back in any round, but a second or third-round pick seems most likely. If a top prospect like Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs falls to them, they'll likely strongly consider it. However, they might opt for a value pick in the later rounds if they believe a player's skillset fits their system. Trading up to acquire a highly-rated running back is a possibility, depending on the available players and the cost of the trade. Don't discount the possibility of a surprise pick—an under-the-radar prospect who could unexpectedly excel.

Impact of the Chosen Running Back on the Saints' Offense

Each prospect brings different strengths to the table. A powerful runner like Zach Charbonnet could excel in short-yardage situations, while a speedster like Devon Achane could provide a big-play threat. A versatile back like Bijan Robinson could be a three-down workhorse, impacting both the running and passing game. The chosen running back's skillset will need to complement the existing players, potentially leading to a more balanced and explosive offense. A successful addition could significantly boost the Saints' overall performance and playoff chances.

Conclusion: The Future of the Saints' Running Back Position

This mock draft highlights the potential for the Saints to significantly upgrade their running back position. While several prospects could fill the need, players like Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs stand out due to their all-around abilities. Ultimately, the Saints’ choice will depend on factors such as available players, draft position, and overall team strategy. Our prediction? The Saints will select a versatile, three-down back in the early to mid rounds to secure their future at the running back position. Who do you think the Saints will draft? Share your predictions using #SaintsDraft #NFLDraft #WhoDat! Find the perfect Saints running back and join the conversation!