With the surprising trade of LeSean McCoy, the Eagles may be in the market for a running back in the upcoming draft. Fortunately for them, this draft seems to be brimming with potential at the position. Here are six RBs that warrant early-round consideration.
1. Melvin Gordon - Wisconsin
A big (6-1, 215), up-right runner, Gordon has long speed to break big runs. He isn't the north-south runner Chip Kelly likes, but Gordon does his best work outside the tackles.
Watch: Gordon vs Nebraska 2014.
2. Todd Gurley - Georgia
Gurley would be my top back in the draft if he hadn't torn his ACL last season. Gurley has a great combination of size (6-1, 222) and speed, and he makes decisive runs between the tackles. Not a lot of dancing going on with him. If his medicals check out, he'd be my first choice for Kelly's zone scheme.
Watch: Gurley vs Tennessee 2014.
3. Tevin Coleman - Indiana
Smaller (5-11, 206) than Gordon and Gurley, Coleman is a smooth, one-cut runner who can fly. He runs away from defenders when he gets to daylight. He runs a bit upright and isn't very shifty, but his ability to put his foot in the ground and go should be a big plus for the Eagles.
Watch: Coleman vs Ohio State 2014.
NFL
4. Ameer Abdullah - Nebraska
Because of his size (5-9, 205) Abdullah might not be an every-down back, but his vision, explosiveness and willingness to finish his runs strong are all very good. His character has been documented as sky high (something the Eagles seem to covet), and while he probably won't go in the first round, Abdullah might be a steal in the second.
Watch: Abdullah vs Miami (Fla.) 2014.
5. Jay Ajayi - Boise State
Another solidly built runner (6-1, 221), Ajayi shows good balance and the ability to shift gears quickly. He can go horizontal and cut vertically without losing speed but won't make guys miss much in the open field. Ajayi catches the ball well and shows a willingness to block in pass protection. He's not the most dynamic runner, but Ajayi has the look of an every-down back in the NFL. He could be there when the Eagles pick in the second round.
Watch: Ajayi vs Colorado State 2014.
6. Duke Johnson - Miami (Fla.)
Here's a guy I really like. He's tough, explosive, and plays hard. Johnson is a one-cut runner who can make big plays. Sometimes he doesn't hit holes you think he should see, but when he does he's a home-run hitter. He's not afraid to lower his head and run through tacklers either. Johnson's size (5-9, 207) might keep him out of the first two rounds, but I wouldn't flinch if the Eagles grabbed him in the second.