Michigan State Football: Early look at top 2022 NFL Draft prospects

Nov 27, 2021; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; Michigan State Spartans wide receiver Jayden Reed (1) celebrates with running back Kenneth Walker III (9) and quarterback Payton Thorne (10) after making a touchdown catch during the fourth quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

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Michigan State Spartans, Kenneth Walker III, Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

This one comes as no surprise to anyone. Kenneth Walker III has been arguably the best running back in the nation and has had his name connected to the Heisman Trophy for months. Walker came in as a transfer from Wake Forest and exploded right out of the gate with a 264-yard, four-touchdown performance against Northwestern.

Through Week 13, Walker is second in the NCAA in rushing yards, fourth in yards per carry, and fifth in total touchdowns. He also has been named the Big Ten Running Back of the Year and is currently a finalist for both the Walter Camp Player of the Year and Doak Walker awards.

Walker is by no means the fastest player on the field, but his quickness and explosiveness out of the backfield and his ability to make defenders miss have been key to his success this season.

Running backs have the tendency to go anywhere in the draft. For teams, it mostly is based on scheme fit. Walker is most likely to land anywhere in Day 1 or Day 2 of the draft, assuming he declares after the season.

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