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2022 NFL Draft: Las Vegas releases odds on first running back off board

On3 imageby:Steve Samra•04/09/22•

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Thee 2022 NFL Draft features multiple fascinating stories at the running back position. While there are massive talents available, it’d be a surprise to see any of them go in the first round later this month.

Still, there are plenty of teams who will be elated to draft any of these ball carriers when the time comes. With a bevy of options, Vegas Insider tried to make sense of it, releasing their odds for the first running back to come off the board when the 2022 NFL Draft begins.

The favorite should surprise no one, as Breece Hall of Iowa State is the first running back projected to be drafted. Some mock drafts have him sneaking into the first round, but he is considered a second-round pick in most projections. Hall was phenomenal for the Cyclones in his collegiate career, accumulating 3,941 rushing yards and 50 rushing touchdowns over three seasons.

Additionally, Michigan State star Kenneth Walker III is a close second to be the first running back selected. After showing his stuff at Wake Forest, Walker exploded with the Spartans, especially in their showdown against Michigan. Now, Walker will look to ascend all the way to the top of the running back class.

Finally, one running back who’s rocketed up boards since the end of the college football season has been Isaih Pacheco of Rutgers. While running behind a suspect offensive line against talented Big Ten defenses his entire career, Pacheco was a workhorse — accumulating 2,442 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns for the Scarlet Knights. He also tested well at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, showing a combination of power, finesse and speed.

As you can see, multiple athletes could be the first running back taken in the 2022 NFL Draft. Here’s who Vegas Insider believes has the best chance at being the first off the board later this month.

2022 NFL Draft: First Running Back Pick Odds