Two years ago, a pair of running backs selected on Day 2 of the NFL draft became instant stars when Kareem Hunt led the league in rushing and Alvin Kamara earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
That was somewhat of an exceptional development, but second- and third-round running backs have a long history of rookie success.
Second-round back Clinton Portis went over 1,800 total yards while scoring 17 touchdowns in 2002. Third-rounder Curtis Martin eclipsed 1,700 yards with 15 touchdowns in 1995. DeMarco Murray rose from the third round to lead all qualified running backs with a 5.