Ohio State Buckeyes running back Ezekiel Elliott is expected to be the top running back taken in April's NFL Draft, and he's projected to go anywhere from the top 15 to the last few picks in the first round. Several teams need to upgrade their running back position, and have their eyes set on Elliott. Here are the three teams that are the most likely to draft him:
New York Giants
New York has perhaps the biggest need for a running back, and with Todd Gurley being drafted in the top 10 by the Rams last year, there's a chance the Giants could do the same with Elliott. Andre Williams and Rashad Jennings have proven that they can't be featured backs in the NFL, and Elliott certainly has that potential. If the Giants are able to work out their defensive line needs in free agency, they're almost a lock to take Elliott.
Houston Texans
If New York passes on him, there's a great chance he'll fall all the way to the Texans at No. 22. Houston's run game struggled mightily without Arian Foster for most of last season, and with Foster turning 30 in August and lingering injury questions, it could be time for Houston to turn the page in the backfield. Elliott is someon they're targeting to be their long-term replacement for Foster.
Carolina Panthers
Carolina has the last pick in the first round, but there's a slim chance Elliott falls to them. The Panthers running game is the key to their offensive attack, but leading rusher Jonathan Stewart will be 29 next year and Carolina doesn't have anyone who could replace him long-term. Drafting Elliott gives them a two-headed monster in the backfield to pair with Cam Newton, and he'd take over when the team moves on from Stewart.