RB Rankings: CJ Donaldson

As we review the RB rankings, players have had a chance to raise their stock and move up the rankings. Before we jump into CJ Donaldson, here’s a few reminders about the rankings themselves:

• The rankings will be updated throughout the season.
• Players who have not played college football are not eligible for the rankings.
• Players are graded on their college ability, not their pro potential.
• We are judging players on their film, production and physical tools.

You can view the College Football RB Rankings here.

West Virginia running back, CJ Donaldson made an immediate impression in his first game for the Mountaineers. He continued to perform with four 100 yard rushing performances before he suffered a season ending injury after seven games. In those seven games, Donaldson ran for 526 yards and 8 touchdowns on 87 carries while also catching 9 passes for 27 yards. Donaldson was one of the surprises of the 2022 season and will build on that strong performance moving forward.

Donaldson runs with good patience, particularly for such a young running back. He waits for the play to develop, setting up his blocks before hitting the hole. Donaldson has the vision to identify the hole once it develops. He then uses a good initial burst to capitalize on that patience and vision, putting his foot on the ground and accelerating through the hole. Donaldson has a good feel for the running game, allowing him to maximize the opportunities he gets.

At 6’2″ 240 lbs, Donaldson is a powerful runner who punishes defenders on contact. He powers through arm tackles, regularly driving the pile and gaining yards after contact. Donaldson has the size to wear defenses down over the course of the game, making the running attack more effective later in the game. His strength and power work well with his patience to make him an efficient downhill runner.

CJ Donaldson burst on the scene early in the year as a true freshman. He has an impressive physical build and a workhorse attitude that keeps the offense moving consistently. While he arrived as a possible tight end recruit, it has become clear that Donaldson has the tools to be an excellent running back. He is working his way up among the top running backs in college football.

West Virginia Mountaineers Gear

For more content like this don’t forget to subscribe to our website for free.

For the latest content follow us on twitter @saturdayscfb & @cfbsaturdaysC or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CFBSaturdays.