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Running backs aren't exactly considered a priority when it comes to the NFL draft anymore.
But two in particular could go in the latter half of the first, depending on how this year's draft shakes out. In his most recent mock draft, SB Nation's Dan Kadar has the Ravens taking one of them.
Kadar has the Ravens drafting Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon in the first round with the 26th overall pick. Gordon had a spectacular season with the Badgers, running for 2,587 yards and 29 touchdowns.
Here's why Kadar has Baltimore taking Gordon:
"Justin Forsett is coming off a career season, and could look to get a big contract this offseason. If the Ravens decide not to give it to him, they could be the team that breaks the string on no running backs being taken in the first round. Gordon often gets described as a bigger version of Jamaal Charles, so adding that type of player to Baltimore's offense could help keep them in the playoff picture."
Even if Forsett returns, it wouldn't be a bad idea for the Ravens to bring in Gordon, or even Georgia's Todd Gurley, though he's coming off an ACL tear. But at the same time, taking a running back in the first round might be a bit of a reach. Considering that the Ravens could get, maybe, two additional solid years out of Forsett, they could decide to wait on taking one — unless they truly believe Gordon or Gurley are the best available players at pick 26.
In the second round, Kadar has the Ravens taking Michigan receiver Devin Funchess. Less than a month ago, Funchess was considered a first-round prospect by many pundits, though those same analysts have appeared to sour on him some recently.