6’0” – 240 lbs. – 4.51
Was the top recruit in the nation out of high school and immediately became a major contributor, enjoying his best season as a sophomore before being limited by ankle injuries in 2016. Big, very thickly-built back with the size to pound the ball between the tackles at the next level. Played in a pro-style offense, taking handoffs from both one-and-two-back sets. Looked like a man among boys at the college level. Can succeed with any rushing responsibilities: between the tackles, outside attempts, short-yardage, etc. Explosive runner who wastes little time in hitting the line and who has the speed to win the corner on tosses and sweeps and to hit home runs when he finds an opening. As a one-cut runner, can blow through holes for big chunks of yardage and build a head of steam to wield against opponents. Extremely powerful, violent downhill runner who punishes would-be tacklers with vicious shoulder charges and stiff-arms; the type of back who can break a defense’s spirits as the game goes on. Regularly finishes runs by falling forward after dragging opposing defenders for additional yardage. Able to use his physicality to wear down opposing defenses and set up big runs later on. If anything, could be more patient; relies on brute force, without much agility and finesse to his game. Runs a little bit tall at times and can expose his body to additional punishment, which could be a concern when considered in combination with his aggressive style, heavy workload as a sophomore, and limitations this past season due to an ankle injury. Worked into the passing game a little bit, but doesn’t have the most diverse responsibilities out of the backfield; more of a safety valve than a player the team tries to throw the ball to on a consistent basis. Pretty limited experience as a pass-blocker, with the size and power to handle that role if he develops his awareness and positioning; shows the willingness to throw a shoulder at opponents but rarely approaches blocking with sound technique. Could probably stay on the field on third downs, but it’s also possible to imagine teams wanting to replace him with more of a pure satellite back on passing downs. With incredible size, power, explosiveness, and aggressiveness, is the type of running back you can build an offense around and who could easily develop into one of the league’s top runners. Probably the best player in the class and should go in the top five picks barring major medical concerns.
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