2016 NFL Draft: 6 running backs Patriots should consider

Sep 19, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back C.J. Prosise (20) carries the ball for a 91 yard touchdown against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the fourth quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back C.J. Prosise (20) carries the ball for a 91 yard touchdown against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the fourth quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports /
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2016 NFL Draft Paul Perkins
Oct 31, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Paul Perkins (center) runs the ball for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

Projected round: 3-4

Last but certainly not least is Perkins, arguably the best running back in the Pac-12 over the past two seasons. The third-leading rusher in UCLA history accumulated 2,918 rushing yards over the past two seasons. Perkins also rushed for 14 touchdowns in 2015, so he clearly has a nose for the end zone.

RELATED: 6 CBs Patriots should consider in 2016 NFL Draft

A bouncing, shifty runner with excellent juking ability to get to the outside, Perkins maintains his balance and is able to flex his body to duck under and around tacklers. Here’s a look at his highlights:

At 5-foot-10, Perkins is the shortest player on this list but he packs a punch, that’s for sure. The Patriots should keep a close eye on Perkins as the 2016 NFL Draft nears.

Next: Reordering WR depth chart after Washington signing

Stay tuned here on Musket Fire for coverage on every twist and turn in the Patriots’ offseason.