SnoTapWI Top Five: Running Backs For Packers in 2020 NFL Draft

In politics, we call out people who are waffling on topics. It is fair. They say one thing two months ago then today it is completely different. They rarely ever admit to waffling. This is not political, but I’m here to tell you I waffled on running backs for the Packers in the NFL Draft. Originally, I was very against drafting a running back early then changed my mind to second or third-round pick with concerns about Aaron Jones. Now, I’m back to waiting on a running back. Jones might leave, but that’s a risk you’re willing to take. It’s too hard to determine if Jones will want to leave in late April.
What are the Packers needs for a running back?
Well, they do not need one this year. They could use a third-string running back after Dexter Williams did virtually nothing last season. Tyler Ervin is more of a return specialist and gadget player than he is a third-string running back for the team. There is zero way in knowing if Jones or Jamaal Williams will be back next year. It is an educated guess more than anything else.
1. Lamical Perine – This screams ‘Williams replacement’ if the Packers decide to move that way. The Florida product is a great pass blocker out of the backfield and he can catch a few balls too. He doesn’t have one standout trait that separates him from other running backs. He is a physical runner but not very quick. Perine does dance in the hole a bit which will need to be improved upon.
2. Deejay Dallas – Again, the focus of drafting a running back should be looking for someone that matches what Williams does on the field. Dallas is one of those guys. He can pass block like no one’s business. He does have some return ability too. Another thing to like about Dallas is he did not get overworked in college. Therefore, the Miami product is fresh when entering the league.
3. Antonio Gibson – At first, this guy was at the top of my list. But after thinking through needs, he would be another version of Ervin. Do the Packers need that? Gadget players can always find a role with a team. I don’t want to see Gibson on an NFC North or NFC Contender roster. I’ll tell you that much. Gibson is awesome in the pass game and can break tackles like no one’s business. The trendy thing this season is to find ‘Deebo Samuel of this year’s draft.’ Gibson has been called that. If Packers take him in the fourth round, there would be no complaints from me.
4. Ke’Shawn Vaughn – This is another third-down back that could fit what the Packers need at the running back position. Vaughn adds a little bit of Jones and Williams combined which makes him an exciting fit. He can be a home run hitter at running back with eight touchdowns of 60-plus in the last two seasons. Vaughn can also pass block making him valuable in the true Williams’ role. He does have a bit of a fumbling issue and has been known to be a hothead on the field.
5. Anthony McFarland – Here is a lottery ticket option for the Packers. McFarland has a load of athleticism to him and drew some comparisons to Dalvin Cook. Yet he did not put together during his time at Maryland. McFarland can catch the ball out of the backfield which is vital in Matt LaFleur’s offense. This wouldn’t be a bad risk in Round 5 or Round 6.
Charlie.