Running Backs

By HOUSTON MITCHELL

April 13, 2000 12 AM PT

The Best

1. THOMAS JONES, Virginia, 5-10, 205--Has speed, great acceleration and is an excellent receiver. Eludes defenders well.

* Where he’s going: First round.

2. SHAUN ALEXANDER, Alabama, 5-11, 218--Has acceleration when he finds a seam. Great leg strength and solid enough to leave in on passing downs.

* Where he’s going: First round.

3. RON DAYNE, Wisconsin, 5-10, 259--Powerful back who runs right over defenders. Weight could be a problem, and he is an unproven pass catcher. But you don’t get to be the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher by accident.

* Where he’s going: First round.

4. J.R. REDMOND, Arizona State, 5-11, 216--Great athlete, he also can play defensive back. Excellent vision and instincts allow him to see holes as they develop.

* Where he’s going: Second round.

5. JAMAL LEWIS, Tennessee, 5-11, 240--Has size and speed but does not break tackles all that well. Has poor peripheral vision.

* Where he’s going: Second round.

THE REST

6. Michael Wiley

Ohio State, 5-10, 193.

7. Reuben Droughns

Oregon, 5-11, 215.

8. Travis Prentice

Miami of Ohio, 5-11, 225.

9. Shyrone Stith,

Virginia Tech, 5-7, 204.