Does UCLA Bruins RB Johnathan Franklin Have What it Takes For the NFL?

By Dan Parzych
(Johnathan Franklin/USA Today Sports)

Despite ending the season on a three-game losing streak, there was plenty to take away from the UCLA Bruins during the 2012 college football season–especially when it came to star running back Johnathan Franklin. The 23-year-old played a key role in helping the Bruins finish with a 9-6 overall record in 2012 and with the type of numbers he displayed as a senior, does Franklin have what it takes to be an effective running back in the NFL?

When looking back at the 2012 season, it’s no surprise Franklin saw his name in the running for Heisman at certain times after finishing with 1,734 rushing yards to go along with 13 touchdowns. These types of numbers are impressive for just about any running back trying to make it in the big leagues, but the main question now will be whether any team will take a shot on Franklin once April rolls around.

It’s no secret the running back position can be one of the most difficult risks on draft day considering how many players struggle to make the transition and the fact that so many running backs get worn down so quickly in the NFL, but Franklin’s case is certainly an interesting one. If his career at UCLA is any indication of what to expect, Franklin seems like the type of running back that just gets better and better with experience–which would be extremely beneficial in the NFL.

There are plenty of teams in need of a running back and the argument can be made that Franklin may be worth the risk–so it should be interesting to see what happens once April rolls around.

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