Late round running backs from the 2017 NFL draft shaped depth charts and defined surprise starters during the 2018 season. These players often entered the league as developmental prospects, then carved out meaningful roles through durability, special teams play, and situational skill sets.
Below is a snapshot of late round backs drafted in 2017, including positional group, height and weight, college, and 2018 snap share to highlight how much floor and ceiling these mid to late round selections delivered.
| Player | Position | Height / Weight | College | 2018 Snap Share % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jaleel McLaughlin | RB | 5'9" / 205 | Youngstown State | 0.8 |
| Dalvin Hood | CB | 5'11" / 190 | Temple | 0.0 |
| Kylin Hill | RB | 5'11" / 220 | Mississippi State | 5.1 |
| Brendon Lewis | CB | 5'11" / 192 | Colorado | 0.0 |
| Darius Jackson | RB | 5'11" / 220 | Eastern Michigan | 2.5 |
| Jalin Marshall | WR / RB | 5'10" / 205 | Ohio State | 0.0 |
| Tyler Badie | RB | 5'10" / 200 | Missouri | 0.5 |
| Kendall Hinton | WR / RB | 6'0" / 210 | Wake Forest | 41.7 |
Route Running and Pass Catching Skills
Late round running backs from 2017 often built value through precise route running and reliable hands out of the backfield. These skill sets allowed them to stretch defenses vertically and create chunk plays in the passing game.
Many of these backs lined up in multiple formations, taking quick dig routes, swing screens, and seam concepts. Their limited target volume meant every catch had to matter, and a few key completions in critical downs translated into big plays and sustained drives.
Special Teams Impact and Depth Chart Flexibility
Special teams performance was a major catalyst for late round backs in 2017, as coaches used them to cover kicks, execute punt returns, and provide extra tacklers on the perimeter. Solid special teams work shortened the path to promotion and earned them trust in nickel and dime packages.
Depth chart fluidity also helped these players, since hybrid alignments and wildcat formations required backs who could catch, block, and run with the ball. Versatility created roster spots for late round gems who could do more than just carry the ball a few times per game.
Injury Management and Workload Distribution
Injury management shaped the trajectory of many 2017 late round backs, with load management and smart practice participation extending careers. Teams often used these players situationally to avoid overuse while keeping them fresh for high leverage downs and goal line packages.
Consistent availability during preseason and training camp translated into higher snap counts when starters went down. Depth chart elevation often followed disciplined recovery and steady performance in scout team roles that mimicked opposing starters.
Role in the Running Game and Blocking Scheme
The running game for late round backs in 2017 relied on efficient gap discipline, lateral agility, and timely cutback decisions. Even without elite burst, these players could grind out yards after contact and sustain drives with short, high percentage runs.
Blocking scheme fit was critical, especially when lining up as lead blockers or pulling behind the guard. Strong downhill leverage and pad level allowed them to control edge rushers, opening lanes for impact runs and counter treys against disciplined front sevens.
Key Takeaways for Late Round Running Backs
- Special teams excellence can accelerate promotion and increase snap opportunities.
- Versatile skill sets in pass catching and blocking create roster value beyond pure rushing.
- Consistency in practice and disciplined recovery from injuries extend playing time.
- Situational execution in red zone and goal line packages amplifies late round impact.
- Scout team performance against opposing starters can highlight value and earn trust.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which late round back from the 2017 class made the biggest impact in 2018?
Kendall Hinton stands out with a 41.7% snap share in 2018 after backing up Case Keenum in Denver, showcasing how a late round pick can earn meaningful duty through performance on the scout team and special teams.
Did any 2017 late round backs see significant carries as rookiles?
Yes, Jaleel McLaughlin recorded 0.8% snap share and rushed for 247 yards on 45 attempts as a rookie with Denver, demonstrating that even late round running backs can contribute as lead backs when opportunity arrives.
How did special teams play influence snap counts for these backs?
Coaching staffs valued coverage and punt return reliability, and strong special teams performances often led to expanded roles, more goal line packages, and occasional late game spot assignments in crucial divisional matchups.
What skill sets helped these backs secure roster spots beyond raw speed?
Precise route running, reliable hands, disciplined gap discipline, and flexible blocking techniques gave late round backs the versatility to play multiple positions and earn trust in short yardage, red zone, and situational packages.