6 running backs the Vikings could select in the 2021 NFL Draft

Kylin Hill (Mississippi State)

Measurements:

• Height: 5-foot-11 | Weight: 210 pounds

2019 Stats (opted out of 2020):

• 1,350 rushing yards (5.6 ypc)
• 18 catches, 180 receiving yards
• 11 total TDs (10 rushing/1 receiving)

Kylin Hill opted out after just three games in 2020 to focus on preparing for the NFL Draft. Before last season, he worked himself into a primary role with the Bulldogs, and he was one of the most exciting young backs in the country. He ran for nearly 2,000 yards and 14 touchdowns in the two seasons before opting out.

Hill can pretty much do it all as a runner, anything from fighting through contact to winning with speed and quickness in space. He is a complete back when you factor in his role and expectations moving forward. He can rack up big plays in a hurry and he will be an instant impact player if given the chance.

Teams will want to get Hill involved in the passing game, but that was not a focal point for Mississippi State. He hauled in 67 catches in his four years, but he saw quite a few more passes thrown his way in his final season. In fact, Hill only ran the ball 15 times in 2020, but he caught 23 passes in three games.

Hill should be able to carve out a very sizeable role at the next level, which may not be what the Vikings want. If they think Hill will demand extra touches and take away from Dalvin Cook, then there’s not really a reason to draft him. However, if Minnesota wants to draft NFL-ready players that can contribute right away, Hill should be near the top of their list of targets.