A clear difference is seen in today’s pro football betting. For decades, running back was an important position for the NFL Draft. These days it borders on an afterthought. NFL offenses prioritize quarterbacks above all else. As a result, few running backs are listed in the first round with the NFL Draft odds. Alabama’s Najee Harris is favored as the first back taken in the 2021 NFL Draft. Next on the board is Clemson’s Travis Etienne. It’s no accident that college football’s top two programs have the two main running back prospects. That said, attractive alternatives are available.
2021 NFL Draft – First Running Back Selected
| Date and Time: | Thursday, April 29, 2021, 7 p.m. ET |
|---|---|
| Location: | Cleveland, Ohio |
| 2021 NFL Draft TV Coverage: | ESPN |
First RB Taken 2021 NFL Draft Odds at SBG
| Player | Odds |
|---|---|
| Najee Harris | -140 |
| Travis Etienne | +200 |
| Javonte Williams | +450 |
| Michael Carter | +3500 |
| Kenneth Gainwell | +4000 |
| Trey Sermon | +4000 |
| Chuba Hubbard | +5000 |
| Jaret Patterson | +6000 |
| Kylin Hill | +7000 |
2021 NFL Draft First Running Back Taken SBG Odds Overview
On the whole, College football remains a name-brand sport. And that is certainly apparent for this year’s draft. Alabama and Clemson are the top two offshore betting programs in the sport. Both are perennial College Football Playoff contenders. Cause by that success is their players owing name recognition with gamblers. NFL Draft information is easy to get. Thus, there aren’t a lot of secrets for Draft Day. All of it adds up in making Harris and Etienne favorites to go before any other running backs.
Najee Harris – Alabama Crimson Tide -140
Namely, Najee Harris is one of college football’s biggest names with gamblers. Harris played through his senior season, enhancing his brand with the public. However, Harris wasn’t a starter until the 2019 campaign. Last season, Harris showed tremendous improvement in receiving. That prepared him to be a “three-down back.” Harris combines the speed and power that makes NFL scouts drool. He is a good tackle buster and challenging to bring down. His lower body strength allows him to keep gaining yards through enemy defenses. Overall, the only criticism of Harris is that he is not a breakaway threat.
Travis Etienne – Clemson Tigers +200
Travis Etienne was expected to enter the 2020 NFL Draft as a first-round pick. Instead, he chose to return to Clemson for his senior season. Etienne had a decent season. But nowhere near his production levels of 2018 and 2019. Most analysts write that off to the pandemic. In like manner to Najee Harris, Etienne combines speed and power. When needed, Etienne can utilize each quality. Etienne actually rates higher than Harris for his potential to break away. Further, he is ranked as the best back in the NFL Draft for yard-creating ability.
Javonte Williams – North Carolina +450
Overall, Javonte Williams rates as the best wild card among running backs. He is closer to Harris and Etienne than many gamblers realize. Coaches love his power ability for the pro game. Last season he ran for 1140 yards and 7.3 yards per rush.
2021 NFL Draft First Running Back Taken Free Picks
In this situation, Najee Harris is the “safe” NFL Draft betting choice. NFL teams are comfortable with his resume. However, Javonte Williams could bring the most value to teams and gamblers.
2021 NFL Draft First Running Back Taken SBG Best Bet: Najee Harris.