Running backs Seahawks should target late in the 2020 NFL Draft

The Seahawks need to find more depth and skill at running back. Here are some potential late-round steals in the 2020 NFL draft.

The Seahawks have two great running backs in Chris Carson and Rashaad Penny. Carson finished the regular season top 5 in rushing yards, while Penny averaged just shy of 6 yards per carry. One could wonder why we would target this position in the draft given the array of other needs? My simple answer would be, durability concerns.

In just 3 seasons Carson has had 3 injuries, 2 severe and 1 moderate. In 2 seasons, Penny has had 3 injuries as well, the two from 2018 were moderate. However, late in the 2019 season Penny tore his ACL and is unlikely to be back for the start of the regular season, per Pete Carroll.

Travis Homer has the potential to be another late-round gem for Seattle. I have no problem with the top 3 backs consisting of Carson, Penny and Homer. However, the running back group has durability concerns and the 2020 NFL draft is filled with top-notch running backs. The Seahawks would be wise to tap into the draft, add much-needed depth to the grouping.

I have found 3 running backs who should be available well into day 3 of the draft who could fill key holes in our offensive depth chart. The first player is a stash and develop type in case Carson leaves next year in free agency. The next player could be moved to full back and help create offensive rushing lanes and added pass protection. The last would be best served as a special teams ace. This player would take over Tyler Lockett’s kick and punt return duties.

Over the next few slides, I’ll go through several backs that would fit our scheme and could prove to be diamonds in the rough.