Cleveland Browns: Top 5 running back targets in the 2018 NFL Draft
5. Nick Chubb, Georgia
Starting off strong, the number five spot goes to Georgia Bulldogs running back Nick Chubb. Despite injuries in college, Chubb kept the faith in 2017 and helped lead the Bulldogs to a National Championship game appearance.
This past season, Chubb rushed for 1,345 yards, and collected 15 rushing touchdowns. While he only had two total receptions, his running prowess made up for it.
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The most impressive part of Chubb’s game is his physicality. At 5-foot-10 and 220-pounds, Chubb is able to use his body as one of his greatest advantages. His tackle-breaking ability is second to none in this draft class, and he is an explosive, physical back to watch.
His speed is not the greatest in the class (he is projected to run a 4.51-second 40-yard dash) but his physical running ability is some of the best in the class.
Right now, WalterFootball.com ranks Chubb as the sixth-best running back in this class, as they hold a second or third-round grade on him. If Chubb can stay healthy, he could be a steal as a day two draft pick.
As mentioned before, one of the major knocks on Chubb is his injury history. In 2015, he had a season-ending knee injury, and he did not look the same again in 2016. In 2017, however, he was back on track and showed no signs of long-term effects from the injuries.
Injury, especially in running backs, can scare away NFL teams. However, Chubb did look like his 2015 self last season. Should the Browns choose to replace Isaiah Crowell with another power runner from Georgia in Nick Chubb, they could be getting a great value pick.