The NFL has been testing the “Running Backs Don’t Matter” theory by focusing on drafting and discarding running backs before their contracts expire or they turn 30. Often, teams look for their RBs in the later rounds rather than using an early pick.
While this approach worked for some time, last year marked a significant shift in how running backs are valued within offenses.
Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry showcased new dimensions of elite offenses, making them even more formidable. Even within the NFC North, many thought the Detroit Lions had reached for Jahmyr Gibbs, but he proved his worth by dominating defenses and elevating Detroit’s offense.
The Vikings also took note of this shift. After relying on Alexander Mattison and Ty Chandler for a season, they added Aaron Jones, who had a career year. However, with that success came an increase in touches, and by the end of the season, Jones showed signs of slowing down due to injury or age.
Minnesota has made moves in the running back position by re-signing Jones and trading for Jordan Mason, but questions remain about the long-term future at the position. While they seem set for this season, the Vikings could use the draft and this deep running back class to find their long-term starter.
Kansas’ Devin Neal could be their future starting running back.
In his first year at Kansas, Neal made an immediate impact, rushing for 700 yards as a true freshman. He has improved each season since, recording three straight 1,000-yard campaigns, with his final two seasons surpassing 1,200 yards.
At 5’11” and 195 lbs., Neal would need to bulk up to become a reliable every-down back in the NFL. However, his speed and vision make him a promising candidate to succeed as a lead back in a committee system.
Neal fits the mold of a modern NFL running back who can contribute in both the running and receiving games. His athleticism, quick feet, and strength allow him to bounce outside when rushing lanes close. Combined with his excellent vision, he knows when to hit the hole and when to let blocks develop.
His sharp decision-making and vision make him an ideal fit for a zone-blocking offense like Minnesota’s, where he can thrive as a one-cut back. As a runner, Neal possesses all the traits the Vikings would want in their offense.
His ability to break off big plays makes him an intriguing prospect. Throughout his time at Kansas, Neal was a constant threat to break a long run, and once in the open field, he’s tough to bring down. His top-end speed makes it nearly impossible for defenders to catch him.
Neal’s receiving ability sets him apart from many running backs in this draft class. While his route tree was limited, mostly used for screens and dump-offs, he has reliable hands and could be a dependable checkdown option. The Vikings could even line him up wide on certain plays, much like they did with Aaron Jones this season.
With defenses often focusing on Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, we saw T.J. Hockenson and Jones excel underneath, benefitting from open space. Adding a young, reliable pass-catching back like Neal would provide another weapon for Minnesota’s offense, forcing defenses to account for him.
Though there’s much to like about Neal’s game, there are a few areas where he falls short compared to top backs like Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton. His size worked against him against bigger, stronger linebackers in college, and he’ll need to add muscle to handle the NFL’s physicality. Additionally, his pass protection remains a concern, meaning he may not be an every-down back right away.
The Vikings are likely to rely more heavily on Jones and Jordan Mason early in the season, with Neal potentially working in a committee. He won’t be a first-round pick, but Minnesota may need to make a move on Day 2 if they want to snag this dynamic player. While this may seem surprising to some, it mirrors the New Orleans Saints’ addition of Alvin Kamara to a backfield already featuring Adrian Peterson and Mark Ingram. Kamara brought a new dimension and ultimately became their star.
