Houston Texans: Three Small-School Running Backs To Watch For In The 2015 NFL Draft

Jan 24, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad running back David Johnson of Northern Iowa (7) carries for a touchdown against North squad safety Adrian Amos of Penn State (4) during the first quarter of the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

David Johnson – Northern Iowa

Height: 6-1     Weight: 224

2014: 287 car, 1553 yds, 17 TDs / 38 rec, 536 yds, 2 TDs

David Johnson had arguably the best combine for a running back this year. He was a top-4 performer in the 40 yd dash, bench press, vertical jump, broad jump, and 3-cone drill. He possesses outstanding athletic ability for such a big guy, and his time at Northern Iowa showed that.

He’s a powerful runner, but his best feature is his outstanding hands. Johnson can be a great catcher out of the backfield, a must for running backs in Bill O’Brien’s offense. He has good size, and could really add  some oomph to the Texans’ rushing attack. He also provides ability as a kick returner.

With his outstanding combine results, teams and media have started taking notice of Johnson. He has the size to be a physical runner, but still has the ability to move like a smaller back. Many believe that Johnson will end up going on either round 3 or 4 in the NFL Draft.