Running Back
Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson will benefit from a vastly improved offensive line in 2017. Last month, Jackson expressed regret for not giving Crowell a heavier workload. Expect Crowell to finally cross the 1,000-yard plateau, even with Johnson on the depth chart. In two years, Johnson has carried the ball 177 times and made 114 catches. Johnson is a versatile threat out of the backfield that does not steal many carries from Crowell.
Matthew Dayes racked up over 2,800 yards and 40 touchdowns in four years at N.C. State. Dayes must fight off George Atkinson III, who contributed primarily on special teams last season. Terrence Magee is also in the mix, but would appear more likely to head to the practice squad.
Danny Vitale was signed prior to week 6 last year and helped the backfield finish second in the league in yards per carry. The second-year pro will be the team’s fullback once again.
Prediction: Crowell, Johnson, Dayes, and Vitale break camp, with Crowell’s eyes on a big year and an even bigger contract in the offseason.
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