Running backs have been devalued a bit in recent years with many teams opting not to use their early NFL Draft picks on tailbacks. That should remain the case this year, with a running back unlikely to go in the top 15.
There could be as many as three selected in the first round, however. Najee Harris, Travis Etienne and Javonte Williams are the top running back prospects in the class, well ahead of the rest of the group. It’s almost certain that at least one will go in Round 1, but all three could sneak into the first 32 picks, too.
Let’s dive in on running back NFL Draft odds and betting lines.
NFL Draft odds: First RB drafted
- Alabama RB Najee Harris: -250
- Clemson RB Travis Etienne: +170
- North Carolina RB Javonte Williams: +850
Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Thursday at 2 p.m. ET.
After Williams, the next-closest running back on the list of odds to be drafted first is Tre Sermon at +5000, just to give you an idea of how far ahead this top trio is. The odds clearly favor Harris and rightfully so: He’s the best running back and most well-rounded player at the position this year. He’s a powerful runner who shows good balance and is dynamic as a receiver out of the backfield. Etienne is also a big-play slasher with receiving skills, while Williams is a compact runner who runs with excellent power.
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The earliest any of these running backs is likely to go is at No. 18 to the Dolphins, who could use some backfield help. Then, the Jets, Steelers and Bills could consider taking a running back later in the first round, too. But in all likelihood, the Steelers or Jets will be the first to take one, and it’ll be Harris who has his name called. He’s been the best running back in the class all offseason and there’s little reason to believe that will change now. He would dramatically improve both the Steelers and Bills offenses and he might be too good for them to pass up late in the first round.
The Harris play is a bit pricey, though. New to sports betting? At -250 odds, it would take $250 to return a $100 profit if Harris does indeed go first among his peers.
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