January 25, 2007

There are no elite running backs from the small school ranks in 2008, but, there is one elite fullback and perhaps several sleepers. There are several talented running backs to be taken in the late rounds or free agency that could provide a solid backup or role player as a rookie.

This year's class of running backs is headlined by a duo of bigger backs in Montana's Lex Hilliard and Northwest Missouri State's Xavier Omon.

Furman's Jerome Felton is an elite fullback who could be a longtime starter in the NFL.

Below is a look at the top 5 running backs and top 3 fullbacks from the small school ranks to watch in the coming months as the NFL Draft boards start to unfold.

TOP 5 SMALL SCHOOL RUNNING BACKS

1. Xavier Omon, Northwest Missouri State, 5111, 219lbs, 4.55 40

Omon is four-time All-America selection who ran for over 1,500 yards all four years in school, proving to be an every down back. He has deceptive speed as many feel he is a 4.6 type but has 4.5 speed. When you talk to Omon you can tell he is a high character kid who works hard and is focused. His downhill running style has teams buzzing, especially after his dominating performance against Division II dynasty Grand Valley State in the D2 playoffs. Omon will be at the NFL Scouting Combine in February. He should land in the 6th-7th round range of the NFL Draft.

2. Lex Hilliard, Montana, 5111, 233lbs, 4.64 40

Hilliard has been through ups and downs over his career. He was a 1st team All-Big Sky selection in 2004 and 2005 but missed the '06 season with a left Achilles tendon tear. He missed several games in '07 but still ran for 1,132 yards. He is tough to bring down in one on one a situation and has the leg drive and power to gain the extra yards that coaches look for in their backs. He has shown decent ability as a receiver and blocker, improving a good bit while in college. The big knock is his injury history and the fact that he does not flash blazing speed. He has also been invited to the NFL Scouting Combine. If his medical reports reveal he is 100%, expect him to be a late round pick.

3. Chad S