Can FSU former RB Trey Benson become a first-round NFL draft pick?

Florida State football had a very successful 2023 campaign. Unfortunately, that squad will be remembered forever due to the College Football Playoff committee's decision in December. However, head football coach Mike Norvell's team needs to be celebrated.

An undefeated regular season and a conference championship are nothing to be ashamed of plus there were several playmakers on the roster announced their declaration to enter the 2024 NFL Draft. One of those was ultra-talented running back Trey Benson.

Many Seminole fans were originally skeptical of the coaching staff deciding to add Benson via the transfer portal. He dealt with a serious knee injury during his time with the Oregon Ducks where he only recorded six carries for 22 yards and one touchdown. There was a portion of individuals who thought that the pickup was going to end up like McKenzie Milton during his time in Tallahassee.

However, Benson proved the doubters as he went on to have over 1,800 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns throughout his two seasons at Florida State. He was the home run hitter that the Seminoles needed in their offense. It seemed like when times were getting tough, the Seminoles leaned on the former Oregon transfer to create momentum.

Just like many Florida State players, Benson knocked his 2024 NFL Scouting Combine performance out of the park when he ran a 4.39 40-yard dash. This was a major break away speed that even I did not know that the running back had. NFL teams are starting to take notice of his ability.

I originally thought that the talented rusher could be a third or fourth-round draft pick. However, Benson likely secured himself life-changing money where it would not be out of the realm of possibility that he could go in the second round.

On Monday, Benson posted a picture of him visiting the Buffalo Bills. Several NFL teams are interested in acquiring his services. With him being years removed from his serious knee injury, Benson can finally be himself. I do not believe that the running back can be a first-round pick given the positional perspective of running backs being replaceable, but I think the second round is doable.