Jadan Baugh remains one of the most highly regarded running backs in college football, even as his production has slowed considerably over the past month.
The Florida standout is projected to go No. 19 overall to the Cleveland Browns in USA TODAY Sports’ latest 2027 NFL mock draft, published Wednesday by Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz.
Baugh is the only running back selected in the first round of the projection, which has the Browns using a pick acquired from the Los Angeles Rams to bolster their backfield.
It has become increasingly rare to see teams use first-round picks on running backs because of the position's short average career length and the NFL’s tendency to value the passing game more.
However, the Browns rank 29th in expected points added
per rushing attempt, creating a clear need for more production on the ground.
“Cleveland will have to ensure the ask of its next quarterback isn’t too great,” Middlehurst-Schwartz wrote.
The projection acknowledges that Cleveland’s front office has generally avoided significant investments at running back, making a first-round selection somewhat unconventional. However, improving the rushing attack could help ease the transition for a young quarterback.
Baugh previously landed at No. 20 overall with the Denver Broncos in Middlehurst-Schwartz’s October mock draft, meaning he has climbed one position despite Florida’s recent offensive struggles.
The third-year back has rushed for 801 yards and 13 touchdowns on 152 carries through eight games, averaging 5.3 yards per attempt. He opened the season with four consecutive 100-yard performances but has managed just 201 rushing yards over his last four outings, including 38 yards on 17 carries in Saturday’s 27-8 loss to Georgia.
Despite that downturn, Baugh is still a potential first-round selection and the top running back in USA TODAY’s latest projection.
Florida (5-3, 3-3 SEC) returns home Saturday to face Oklahoma as Baugh looks to regain his early-season form.
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: USA TODAY Sports mock draft sends Florida's Jadan Baugh to Browns
