5 best Running Backs in the 2018 NFL draft

#1 Ronald Jones II (USC)

Ronald Jones II (25)

While everybody's attention has remained focused on the charismatic quarterback Sam Darnold, few have noticed the work of running back Ronald Jones II, who has the 2nd most rushing yards in PAC-12 this season.

A four-star recruit out of high school, Ronald Jones II committed to USC to play college football. As a true freshman, Jones played in all 14 games, but started in none of them, rushing for 987 yards at 6.5 yards per carry with 8 touchdowns.

In his sophomore year, Jones was awarded the starting role in the backfield by the USC coaching staff and rewarded their faith in him by recording 1082 rushing yards at an average of 6.1 yards per carry with 12 touchdowns. He had back-to-back 150+ yards rushing games against California and Oregon.

In 2017, Jones became USC's premier back and showed everyone why he was considered one of the best backs in college, leading them to a PAC-12 championship victory by rushing for 1,486 yards at an average of 6.1 yards per carry with 18 touchdowns. Three 150+ rushing yard games were just the cherry on top.

Ronald Jones II is an explosive athlete who runs with a low pad level, allowing him to change direction easily. He has an exceptional ability to make good reads and find open lanes in traffic. Jones is the complete package of speed, agility and physicality as a runner.