5’10” – 209 lbs.
Has been the Buckeyes’ leading rusher since his freshman season; spent his first two seasons splitting carries with Mike Weber, posting 194-1,403-7 (7.2) as a freshman and t hen seeing his output drop to 230-1,053-10 (4.6) as a sophomore. Set Ohio State’s single-season rushing record this past season with a 301-2,0003-21 (6.7) campaign, declaring for the draft afterward. Also caught between 22 and 26 passes per year. Has solid height for a pro running back, although his weight is a little bit on the low end; nonetheless, proved capable of handling a heavy workload during his college career. Playing in Urban Meyer’s power spread, did a lot of rushing off-tackle out of shotgun formations, but is capable of going between the tackles as well. Wastes little time getting upfield, accelerating smoothly and falling forward to finish his runs. Had the luxury of running through some huge holes but overall agility and balance are very impressive; able to jump-cut or shuffle and maneuver himself into open lanes or make defenders miss in space. Shifty player who can stutter-step and break down defenders one-on-one. Has impressive speed when he’s able to get to the second level, being very difficult to tackle once he escapes the box and possessing enough deep speed to hit home runs. Does a good job of protecting the ball into contact and falling forward at the end of his runs; ball security is solid, having fumbled just five times over 776 career touches. Not the most powerful back, but is a physical runner who flashes the ability to pinball off of defenders and pick up some yardage after contact. Keeps his legs churning but overall leg drive is about what you’d expect from a player with his size. Would like to see him run a little bit lower between the tackles, as he does take some bigger hits than other top running back prospects. Has relatively more experienced in pass protection than some of the other top running backs in this year’s class. Looks alert and light on his feet in blitz pickup. Can occasionally lapse into throwing a shoulder at an oncoming defender, but is pretty consistent about engaging from his feet. Also made a lot of delayed releases out of the backfield, with what look like soft hands; looks more ready than some of the top running back prospects to play on third downs early in his career. Sustained a season-ending injury in the opener of his senior season of high school which may require further medical review. Doesn’t have quite as much bulk or power as some of the other top backs, but offers an attractive combination of speed, quickness, agility, and passing-down value which should allow him to come off the board on the draft’s second day.
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