Back’s To Watch At Combine Today

The NFL Combine gets underway today and the running backs will be the position to watch. Ezekiel Elliot is at the top of everyone's board at the position, but could his combine performance influence his draft stock? And what other players should we keep an eye on that could improve their stock?

Ezekiel Elliot, Ohio State: 

Ohio State RB Ezekiel Elliot is undoubtedly the best running back in this years draft class. He has the best combination of size, speed, elusiveness, and strength out of all draft eligible backs.

Elliott averaged 6.3 yards per carry in 2015 for 1,821 yards with 23 touchdowns. He also had 27 receptions for 206 yards as well. A complete stats sheet for a player many see as just a runner.

There are a few combine events where Elliot should be near the top of the charts at. One in particular is the shuttle run. Elliot's lateral quickness and short explosive strides should lead to a good time in this drill. His 40-yard dash could be interesting as well as he is considered one of the faster backs in the draft.

There is no doubt he will solidify his early first-round grade today.

Paul Perkins, UCLA: 

UCLA RB Paul Perkins is an interesting back to keep an eye on.

As a junior in 2015, Perkins averaged 5.7 yards per carry for 1,343 yards with 14 touchdowns. He also had 30 catches for 242 yards and a score. He is a tough runner who has a nice combination of strength and speed that could possibly land him with a late 2nd-round grade.

Perkins has a lot of potential. The shuttle run, bench press, and 3-cone drill look to be his strengths as he heads into the combine. Perkins is projected as a second or third round pick.

Josh Ferguson, Illinois: 

Ferguson is the fastest back in this draft. A guy that could be a late round steal, Ferguson has a combination of elusiveness and speed that could intrigue a team to take a shot on him earlier than he is projected.

In 2015 he missed a number of games, but still averaged 5.5 yards per carry for 708 yards and three touchdowns while catching 38 receptions for 280 yards and two scores.

This may be the guy to watch in the 40-yard dash. He has the quickness, but can he get off to a good start that could land him a possible 4.4 time that he is expected to get? We'll have to wait and see.