6 running backs the Vikings could select in the 2023 NFL Draft

Arizona State RB Xazavian Valladay
Arizona State RB Xazavian Valladay | Chris Coduto/GettyImages
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Minnesota Vikings
Texas A&M RB Devon Achane | Mark Brown/GettyImages

Devon Achane (Texas A&M)

Measurements:

Height: 5-foot-8 | Weight: 188 pounds

2022 Stats:

  • 1,192 Rushing Yards
  • 5.6 Yards Per Carry
  • 36 Receptions
  • 196 Receiving Yards

If Minnesota truly wants a change-of-pace running back, they will find themselves right at the feet of Devon Achane.

As one can clearly see, Achane is a much smaller back than most, but he makes up for his size with unreal athletic ability. Not only is Achane a standout on the football field and an All-American in track, making first and second teams in his respective short-distance events.

Achane being a track star clearly shows up on his game tape, as there aren’t many players who can keep up with him on either side of the ball. Achane was clocked at running a 4.32-second 40-yard dash time, so he has further cemented himself as a true sparkplug in this draft.

With his lack of size being a red flag, it’s almost certain that Achane will not be an every-down back, but luckily for the Vikings, they are not in that market. A backfield of Achane and Mattison could bring back memories of the Jerrick McKinnon and Latavius Murray tandem that helped lead Minnesota to the NFC Championship in 2017.

If Minnesota is looking to create its new version of thunder and lightning, taking a chance on Achane may just be in their future.  

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