Pound-for-pound best playmaker in class; could be best back if Love underperforms.

188 lbs Wake Forest RB with proven volume and between-the-tackles ability who fits in the right scheme with the right offensive attitude. Claiborne is only 5–7 lbs away from James Cook's weight (194–195 lbs) and will likely add 5–7 lbs in muscle. Despite a spike to seven fumbles last year, he had only two fumbles across his other three starting seasons. Bob Harris describes him as pound-for-pound the best playmaker in the class due to speed, pace change, and ability to manipulate defenders; compares his game to Shady McCoy's movement and Jamaal Charles' ability to dictate the chain of action without taking excessive contact. Harris projects Claiborne as a potential class-best back if Jeremiah Love fails to meet expectations. Expected to land as a fourth or fifth round pick at best. Harris evaluates team fits including gap-style offenses (Bills model with James Cook), complementary roles in two-back systems (potential dash to Cam Akers' smash in New York under John Harbaugh), or split-back situations (better version of Woody Marks alongside Nick Chubb model). Potential landing spots include Steelers (complementing Rico Dowdle when Jaylen Warren departs) or Denver (competing with RJ Harvey, whom Harris views as a less intelligent runner).