5’10” – 201 lbs. – 4.48
Played sparingly, predominantly in a special-teams capacity as a true freshman, then started the final nine of thirteen games played as a sophomore, posting 163-966-8. Was the full-time starter as a junior, enjoying a similar season of 164-985-4 before declaring for the draft. Team captain who’s a little bit smaller than your typical running back, although he has a muscular build. Did a lot of his work out of shotgun and pistol formations, mostly on attempts between the tackles. Despite explosive athletic testing at the Combine (39.5” vertical, 10’10” broad jump), doesn’t appear to have elite burst or speed on tape. However, does bring a tough approach to the position, with the ability to get behind his pads and fight for additional yardage after contact. Able to lower the shoulder and run over defensive backs in one-on-one situations. Demonstrates pretty good leg drive to push the pile once engaged. Needs some time to get going before his power kicks in; can be stopped near the line of scrimmage before he builds up momentum and wasn’t an automatic converter in short-yardage situations during the games reviewed. Can struggle to win the edge when faced with congestion or when running off-tackle, although he has pretty clean footwork when making cuts to bounce outside. Considered together with his smaller frame, style of running might cause him to absorb a lot of punishment/wear and tear. Ball security has been an issue; fumbled six times on just over 370 career touches, including four times on just over 180 touches this past season. Not afraid to stick his nose in as a blocker, and was often retained in pass protection rather than being sent out on a route. Doesn’t always get the best extension with his arms, but throws some physical chip blocks to buy time for his quarterback. Demonstrates solid lateral quickness to mirror once engaged. Wasn’t integrated that heavily into the team’s plans as a receiving option, most commonly running some releases into the flats off of play action, or catching screens. Does appear to have solid hands and is the type of runner you’d like to isolate against opposing corners. Plays the game with the type of toughness and physicality teams look for, but his smaller frame, lack of elite burst, and ball-security issues may relegate him to being more of a late-round pick or undrafted free agent. Past experience working on special-teams coverage units may help his cause.
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