Late round running backs drafted in 2017 shaped several NFL offenses for years to come. These picks often arrived in the fifth through seventh rounds, offering teams value plays and low draft capital.
Teams balanced raw talent, positional need, and scheme fit while hoping for late gems and minimizing risk. Below is a quick reference for the most notable late round running backs from that class.
| Player | Team | Pick | College | Early NFL Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mike Boone | Minnesota Vikings | 144 | Cincinnati | Special teams and short yardage |
| Taiwan Jones | Buffalo Bills | 180 | Eastern Washington | Backup and return specialist |
| Kareem Hunt | Kansas City Chiefs | 132 | Toledo | Lead back and receiving target |
| Carlos Wilkerson | Chicago Bears | 228 | Jacksonville State | Blocking back and depth option |
Route Running and Receiving Skills
Developing Pass-Catching Threats
Several late round backs in 2017 showed advanced route running that challenged secondaries. They used crisp cuts, leverage, and timing to create separation on intermediate throws.
Coaches valued running backs who could stretch the field and attack seam concepts. This skill set turned modest draft slots into high leverage contributors in specific formations.
Power Running and Inside Zone Impact
Thick Frame Success in Up-Tempo Systems
Physical runners thrived behind creative line schemes, using vertical runs and sharp cuts to punish overaggressive fronts. Their ability to sustain blocks and attack gaps generated consistent positive yardage.
Teams leveraged this style in condensed formations, finding value in durable backs who could shoulder carries and control the clock without burning high draft capital.
Third Down and Late Game Reliability
Consistency Under Pressure
Reliable late round backs delivered in crucial downs, converting short yardage and keeping drives alive with steady decision making. Coaches appreciated low variance performers who reduced coaching stress in key moments.
Film study, situational practice reps, and disciplined run fits helped these players maintain availability and efficiency during long seasons and high leverage weeks.
Fantasy Value and Depth Chart Leverage
How Late Round Picks Translated to Weekly Points
In fantasy leagues, several 2017 late round backs emerged as handcuff options and surprise weekly starters. Balanced workloads, complementary backfields, and goal line packages elevated their floor and peak performance.
Understanding snap distributions, offensive line trends, and injury reports allowed managers to target these players in auctions and late round drafts with reasonable confidence.
Key Takeaways for Evaluating Late Round Running Backs
- Analyze route efficiency and separation ability beyond raw speed.
- Assess power running traits, balance, and block sustainability.
- Check third down conversion rates and situational reliability.
- Review snap distributions, offensive line context, and depth chart positioning.
- Monitor offseason development, practice consistency, and injury history.
- Use fantasy and depth chart projections to value picks relative to opportunity.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which late round back from 2017 had the biggest breakout season?
Mike Boone delivered a standout performance as a rookie, excelling in short yardage and special teams, then building on that with an efficient second season.
How did Kareem Hunt perform as a late round pick for the Chiefs?
Hunt became a lead back and receiving threat, showcasing versatility and power running that justified his mid round value and kept him central to the offense.
Were any late round backs used heavily in return roles in 2017?
Taiwan Jones provided valuable return production and backup depth, stretching special teams units and giving the Bills extra playmaking flexibility.
What made late round backs effective in offensive schemes during 2017?
Film study, precise route running, durable skill sets, and scheme fit allowed these players to contribute meaningfully despite limited draft resources.