5 running backs the Vikings could select in the 2019 NFL Draft
By Nik Edlund
Miles Sanders (Penn State)
Measurements:
- Height: 5-foot-11 | Weight: 211 pounds
2018 Stats:
- 220 carries, 1,274 yards (5.8 average), 9 touchdowns
- 24 catches, 134 yards (5.8 average)
The more tape you watch on Sanders, the harder and harder it gets to not absolutely fall in love with his game. He truly has it all; power, vision, burst, and exceptional hands. He can turn what looks like a loss into a huge gain and he is always fighting and scratching for additional yardage.
Sanders ran a 4.49 40-yard dash at the 2019 Combine, so he’s plenty fast enough. He took over for Saquon Barkley last year and the Nittany Lion offense didn’t miss a beat.
He’s a dual-threat back who ran for 1,274 yards and nine touchdowns in 2018. He also caught 24 passes for 134 yards, but he never did score as a receiver. Sanders is a well-rounded prospect who can be a three-down back in the NFL.
If the Vikings want Sanders, they’ll have to use their second-round pick on him. He won’t fall into round three and the problem is that he could be gone well before Minnesota’s second-round choice anyways.
Sanders’ game is similar to Dalvin Cook’s, so if the Vikings want a true change-of-pace back, then he may not be their cup of tea. Passing on this guy would be a mistake though, as he can do it all. And if Cook were to go down again in 2019, Sanders could step in and Minnesota’s ground game would be just fine.