2015 NFL Draft: Top 5 Detroit Lions Running Back Prospects

Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports

1. Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana

Tevin Coleman is in a tough class of running backs in the 2015 NFL Draft and may be a bit under appreciated.

Coleman is a violent runner, constantly playing with an edge that makes defenders not want to tackle him. When they do try, he punishes players who get in his way.

A consensus first team All American in 2014, a first team All-Big Ten, Doak Walker finalist (for the nation’s best running back), Coleman has put together a list of accolades that suggest his play isn’t just about abusing defenses, it’s about quality running.

Coleman has a fantastic jump-cut to leave linebackers bewildered and grasping at air. He’s got great balance and quickness, plus he hits top speed in a hurry.

In all honesty, he is a combination of the Detroit Lions two priemer backs of 2014, Bell and Bush.

Additionally, some of Coleman’s best games in his career have been against schools with outstanding defenses. He’s impressive in the way he attacks the hole or bounces the ball to the outside, and looks to cut the ball to find room. He is also exceptional at planting his outside foot and turning up the field.

While most draft analysts have Todd Gurley and Melvin Gordon (in that order) as the top two running backs in the draft and both figured to be in the first round, Coleman is being slotted in the next tier of backs. He’s arguably the best of the bunch and could be a high second-round pick, if not a late first.

If he does happen to drop to Detroit at 54 however, it has to become a no-brainer at that point.

For continued Detroit Lions news, rumors and NFL Draft analysis, be sure to follow writer Nate Williams on Twitter at @Shoot_The_Gap.