RB Ameer Abdullah :
Scouting Reports:
Nebraska Profile page: http://www.huskers.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205097752
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/ameer-abdullah?id=2552374
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1824308/ameer-abdullah
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=119707&draftyear=2015&genpos=RB
NFL Draft Preview 2015: RB Ameer Abdullah: http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfl-draft-preview-2015-rb-ameer-abdullah/
Articles:
Previewing the NFL draft's RB prospects (Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska (Height: 5-9. Weight: 205.): Scouting report: He was highly productive at Nebraska, with back-to-back 1,600-yard seasons, but he doesn't have the size of a prototypical NFL running back. But Abdullah is certainly fast enough and has proved to be reliable enough as a receiver to make him an attractive option for a team looking for a complementary running back. Insider's take: "A situational guy" — ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr., who doesn't view Abdullah as a three-down running back in the NFL. Projected round: Second or third.) (4-29-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/29/running-back-prospects-melvin-gordon-wisconsin-todd-gurley/26578901/
Faster than fast: Speedsters poised to shine (Ameer Abdullah, RB, Nebraska: Yes, he's a 4.6 40 guy -- pretty good speed, if not exactly special. But he's also a 3.95 guy (in the short shuttle, the fourth best time at the NFL Scouting Combine) and a 6.79 guy (in the three-cone, tops in his position), and that suggests a running back with the quickness to make people miss tackles. When you have times like those, you usually end up with an effective, productive player; I expect Abdullah will play faster than his 40 speed, which, it must be said, was still among the 15 best times by running backs at the combine.) (4-29-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488744/article/nelson-agholor-amari-cooper-among-speedsters-who-will-shine
Second round preview: Detroit Lions could add speed to offense in NFL draft (Lockett should still be around well into the second round because of concerns over his size, which is 5-foot-10 and 182 pounds. Same goes for Ameer Abdullah. The Nebraska tailback is considered one of the most electrifying offensive players in this draft. McShay ranked him the No. 2 player in space, trailing only Lockett. "He is the quintessential space player," NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock said. "Catch the football, real quick, make him miss." The Lions need a tailback to replace Bush, and are virtually assured of taking one in this draft. Coach Jim Caldwell said they would not box themselves into taking a Bush-type, but if they were looking to replace speed with speed, Abduallah makes a ton of sense. He would be an instant fit, as the speed complement to Joique Bell's power. He's also a terrific pass catcher. But, like Lockett, also offers size concerns. Specifically, with his hands. They're small, which have contributed to 23 fumbles -- 16 of which he lost -- and hurt his stock. "That's very correctable, as long as you're practicing the same way you're going to do it in the game," Abdullah said. "It's all about focusing on the three-pressure points. Anyone who plays football knows what I'm talking about when I say that. Just practicing the same way every day, consistently holding the ball high and tight. It just becomes second nature, really. It's just focusing.") (4-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_could_add_speed.html
Get to know the draft's most intriguing prospects (Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: During most of the pre-draft cycle, Abdullah has been highlighted for two reasons. One, he is extremely tiny at 5’9” and 205 pounds. And two, he is incredibly fast, something that allowed him to rack up 5,278 yards from scrimmage yards during his remarkable college career. Less talked about: He is the youngest of nine children. His first name means prince. He has an inspirational backstory—read this profile by ESPN’s Bonnie D. Ford—and was so good at hide-and-seek as a boy he simply couldn’t be found. He was so little they lost track of him once. The three youngest kids were playing hide-and-seek. Ameer curled up in the back of a long, narrow kitchen cabinet meant for pots and pans. Somehow, the other kids got distracted and abandoned the game, and suddenly, Ameer was missing. No one could imagine where he had gone, and his brother Kareem panicked, thinking he'd been kidnapped. Finally, Ameer emerged, crying and asking why no one had come to find him. That elusiveness also makes him a miracle worker on game days. Observe. Video inside) (4-27-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/27/2015-nfl-draft-prospect-facts-brett-hundley-ameer-abdullah
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (5. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: The 5-foot-9, 205-pound Abdullah has ridiculous burst and quickness, both as a runner and returner. He also plays strong and breaks tackles despite his size, and he has return experience. His long speed doesn’t match his quickness as his 4.53-second 40-yard dash was actually an improvement from his combine time. The biggest issue is his 23 fumbles in college.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
2015 NFL Draft: Five prospects with top intangibles (4. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: You won't find a more well-rounded person than the former Cornhuskers running back, who was named a team captain, was on the All-Big Ten Academic team, and was a weight-room warrior to boot. He volunteers at local schools, visits local hospitals, and was revered in the Cornhuskers' locker room. An AFC scout told College Football 24/7 at the Senior Bowl in January: "He's a pro's pro already."
NFL fit: Miami Dolphins. Whether Knowshon Moreno moves on in free agency or not, Dolphins starter Lamar Miller could use a little help and Abdullah -- though he lacks the size to be an every-down back -- could be just the answer in a support role.) (4-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485699/article/2015-nfl-draft-five-prospects-with-top-intangibles
Greg Cosell's NFL draft preview: Examining the top RBs in a great class (Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: Abdullah is short but not small at 205 pounds. Can Abdullah be a feature back in the NFL? Some won't think so because of his size. What immediately stood out was Abdullah is a hard runner, and he did not go down easily despite his size. He finished runs. Abdullah is very effective in the zone run game (inside and outside), in the screen game, and he’s a decisive downhill runner who runs behind his pads and attacks the line of scrimmage. He’s a high-energy runner who plays fast. He has outstanding natural quickness with explosive short area burst and acceleration; there’s great stop-and-start quickness in his game. He has a similar body type to Ahmad Bradshaw but Abdullah is a smoother mover with more fluid cutting ability and explosive traits. Abdullah could be the most talented runner in this draft class after Todd Gurley, but will not be drafted like that due to his size and questions about utilization in the NFL. His best fit is in a zone scheme (think Justin Forsett in Baltimore).) (4-12-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--examining-the-top-running-backs-in-a-great-class-184532748.html
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska (5-9, 205):He would be an unlikely player for the Lions unless he slips a bit in the draft from his No. 3 running back and No. 36 overall ranking. He's not someone the Lions should take at No. 23, but if he's there in the second round, he'd be a good pickup. He won't be a great in the tackles guy, but he can make people miss and is a high-level returner.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (4/48. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska, 5-09, 205, 4.50, 2: --Mighty mite: Here is an athlete with phenomenal running ability, agility, acceleration and instincts and a leader in the locker room and the community. But the medics must take a close look at Abdullah. He seemed to overcome a sprained left MCL against Purdue when, after a bye week, he appeared limited but played through the pain against Wisconsin and for the rest of the season. He still finished with his third consecutive 1,000-yard season rushing, this time 1,611 yards to follow up his 1,690 in 2013. Abdullah's career stats include 4,588 yards rushing, second only to Mike Rozier's NU record of 4,780 yards. But that prolific college production may cut both ways for an NFL team looking to make a sound investment. Abdullah is not a large back and there is a price to pay for playing in all 53 of his college games. Along with his 886 touches as a rusher or receiver, he also returned 61 kickoffs and 31 punts. And all that is not even considering those final two high school seasons in which he rushed for almost 3,000 yards. --Measuring up: At the combine, Abdullah was exactly 5-foot-8 5/8 inches tall, or short, and his hands were among the smallest there (8 5/8 inches). Other than that, and a mediocre 40-yard time of 4.60 seconds (electronically timed), Abdullah's combine workout was outstanding, including 24 reps with 225 pounds on the bench (although helped by short arms -- 30 inches), a 42.5-inch vertical jump and 10-foot-10-inch broad jump. Abdullah's quickness and agility showed up in the short shuttle at only 3.95 seconds and three-cone drill (6.79 seconds). He re-ran the 40 at his pro day and was timed in "high 4.4s" or at 4.53, according to one scout. That hand-held, pro-day time is really little different than his combine run, where he also had a 4.50 hand-held time, but it just wasn't announced. --Notable quote: "Very correctable as long as you're practicing the same way you're going to do it in the game. It's all about focusing on the three pressure points. Anyone who plays football knows what I'm talking about when I say that. Just practicing the same way every day, consistently holding the ball high and tight. It just becomes second nature, really. It's just focusing." -- Abdullah at the combine, when asked about concerns on his fumbling. --Frankly: Abdullah is a talented runner who is tougher than he looks, but after being a prime weapon for 53 college games -- touching the ball 978 times as a rusher, receiver and returner -- it is a fair to question how many more games he has in him at the NFL level.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
2015 NFL Draft: Top five pass-catching running back prospects (1. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: Abdullah has soft hands out of the backfield as a lot of backs do, but his ability to accelerate in the open field makes him naturally dangerous as a receiver. He caught 20-plus passes over each of his last three years at Nebraska, but last year improved his average per catch from 8.9 to 12.2. Abdullah hasn't dropped a pass since his sophomore year. NFL fit: Miami Dolphins. Abdullah, at the very least, could take some of the receiving load off of Lamar Miller, who did it all for the Dolphins last season. If Knowshon Moreno signs elsewhere, a draft pick like Abdullah would make even more sense.) (4-8-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484193/article/2015-nfl-draft-top-five-passcatching-rb-prospects
Huskers’ Abdullah draws interest, vexed by travel (4-7-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/07/diary-ameer-abdullah-nebraska-travel-mishaps/25429445/
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (3. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: A do-everything back who can step in and help as a ballcarrier (1,611 yards rushing last season), receiver (12.2 yards per catch) and return man (averaged 26.1 yards per kick return in his career), Abdullah plays bigger than his 5'9" frame and faster than his 4.6-second 40 at the combine. He also runs more like the aforementioned Sanders, showing shiftiness in the open field and the vision to cut back against the grain. If the Nebraska product can cut down on his fumbles, he will be able to handle a significant workload at the NFL level. Projection: Mid- to late second round) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
Nos. 44–40: Underrated playmakers from top teams ( 42. Ameer Abdullah, RB, Nebraska: Bio: In 2014, Abdullah led the Big Ten in rushing with 1,611 yards and 19 touchdowns on 264 carries, and he was highly productive throughout his career with the Cornhuskers. Possibly the best senior back in this class leaves the NCAA with 4,588 yards and 73 touchdowns on 813 carries, with 690 receiving yards, 1,592 kick return yards and 316 punt return yards mixed in. Size and power issues will probably prevent Abdullah from becoming a three-down back in the NFL, but that doesn't diminish his true value. His pro team will just have to know what he does best, and adapt accordingly. There's a lot to like. Strengths: Outstanding speed, acceleration and body lean—transitions smoothly to the second and third levels. Runs low and forward to pick up extra yards between the tackles. Patient when waiting for blocks to open gaps, and moves to the edge quickly and efficiently. Team leader who works very hard and has an obvious desire to improve. Runs very decisively to and through the gap, and has the vision to take advantage of quick-opening opportunities. Not blessed with great escapability, but has good lateral agility and fights to create openings as he runs downfield. Weaknesses: As expected from a player his size (5'9", 205 pounds), Abdullah struggles in power situations. Not a sustaining back when dealing with bigger defenders, and has issues keeping his body straight when blocking. Won't be able to put on much more weight. Needs to develop a wider array of routes, and more accuracy when running them. Fumbled 13 times at Nebraska. Best suited to a zone scheme at the next level—could struggle with power/counter/trap schemes that require more power and patience. Conclusion: Abdullah doesn't project as an every-down back in the NFL because of his size and attendant power issues, but he could be a very valuable cog in a multi-faceted running game. In a system that defines rushing openings to the edge and relies on big plays in space, he'd be a real asset. Add in his value as a returner, and second-round consideration isn't out of the question. Pro Comparison: Andre Ellington, Cardinals(Round 6, 2013).) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-ranking-si-64-jaelen-strong-jalen-collins-ameer-abdullah
Film review: Abdullah would give Lions physicality, elusiveness (3-30-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/03/30/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-ameer-abdullah/70690278/
Five RB prospects with best game-breaking speed (3. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: People might question things like size and ball security (Abdullah's fumbling issues are a legit concern), but he has speed in spades. The Nebraska star averaged better than six yards per carry last year and had five touchdowns of 40 yards or more. He ran in the low 4.5s at the Cornhuskers' pro-day event -- not exactly blazing track speed, but he shows an extra gear when it matters: with his pads on and the lights on. NFL fit: Arizona Cardinals. One of the least-productive rushing attacks in the NFL last year could do a lot worse than Abdullah, who is especially dangerous when allowed to bounce a play outside and turn the corner.) (3-26-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481389/article/five-rb-prospects-with-best-gamebreaking-speed
Cowboys will host five of 2015 draft's best running backs for visits (the 5 RBs are Gurley, Gordon, Coleman, Ajayi and Abdullah) (3-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481528/article/todd-gurley-among-five-running-backs-to-visit-dallas-cowboys
Zierlein's top 10 RB prospects ( 6. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska - Zierlein's bottom line: Despite having first-round talent, Abdullah's lack of preferred NFL size and issues with ball security might cause some teams to shy away from him in the opening round. Abdullah has explosive potential as a runner and ball-catcher and is a natural zone-scheme fit. His high character will make him a hit during interview process.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479538/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-running-backs
2015 Pro Days Notebook - Part I (Ameer Abdullah – RB – Throw out the 40, and Abdullah had an outstanding Combine performance. At the Nebraska pro day, he showed what a competitor he is by running the 40 again. It was a smart move as he run 4.53 – 4.55.) (3-8-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-pro-days-notebook-part-i/
2015 NFL Draft: This Week In Pro Days (Running back Ameer Abdullah improved his 40 time from 4.60 to the mid 4.4s. Abdullah may be working his way into the upper portion of the second round, and should be the third running back off the board behind Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon and Georgia’s Todd Gurley.) (3-6-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-week-pro-days.html
Randy Gregory, Ameer Abdullah shine during drills at Nebraska pro day (Abdullah reportedly improved on his 40 time from the combine (4.60) by running in the 4.4 range and did a full battery of pass-catching and agility drills. There has been increasing buzz that the Doak Walker Award finalist is emerging as a likely second-round pick and he did nothing to slow down that momentum with his performance on Thursday. "I'm glad this part is behind me," Abdullah said. "Any time you can get in front of scouts and the professional guys to show what you can do, though, you should take advantage of the opportunity. I didn't do everything today, but I feel like I came out and did what I wanted to do and showed it.") (3-5-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000476783/article/randy-gregory-ameer-abdullah-shine-at-nebraska-pro-day
Nebraska's Abdullah: I'm the best running back in 2015 NFL Draft (3-5-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000476791/article/ameer-abdullah-im-the-best-running-back-in-2015-nfl-draft
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Abdullah had the worst fumble rate. His fumble rate is once in every 35.4 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
The NFL Draft’s 5 best Running Backs (4. Ameer Abdullah – Nebraska: Abdullah is one of my favorite players in this draft. He may lack ideal NFL size, but he is all football player. In 2014, he ran for over 1600 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also had 22 receptions and another three touchdowns. While not a burner, he is very quick and explosive and gets a number of long runs. Not many are quicker for 20 yards. He is tough and explosive and is able to get yards after contact. He is proficient both inside and out and has top instincts. Despite his size, he is more than an adequate as a blocker. He has issues with ball security. He put the ball on the ground too much this past season. As I have said before, Abdullah reminds me of Thurman Thomas and Joe Cribbs two former Buffalo Bill backs. They all have similar size and quickness. It remains to be seen if he will have the same type of production in the NFL.) (3-3-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/the-nfl-drafts-5-best-running-backs
NFL Draft Top 50, Nos. 41-50: Devin Funchess talented but flawed player (47. Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah 5-9, 205: Has a good frame despite a lack of heigh and runs with intensity, always seeming to fall forward and work for every last yard. Shifty, decisive and quick, Abdullah can make defenders whiff easily and can be used as a great change-of-pace playmaker. He is considered to be a football-first, high-character player with the work ethic and determination to make it in almost any environment. Abdullah also has special-teams value and is willing to put in extra time (witness his improved receiving ability) to be a valuable piece on a roster. He is also clutch, although his smallish frame, fumbling issues and pass-protection liabilities limit his overall value. NFL comparison: Giovani Bernard but with more inside-running ability. Draft range: Second round.) (3-2-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-draft-top-50--nos--41-50--devin-funchess-talented-but-polarizing-prospect-205430152.html
Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah is sensible replacement for Reggie Bush with Detroit Lions (2-27-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/02/nebraskas_ameer_abdullah_makes.html
Top Combine Performers at Lions position of need (Ameer Abdullah, 5-9, 205, Nebraska: His 40 time (4.6) was a bit slower than expected, but he was the best running back in the vertical (42.5), broad jump (10'10''), 3 cone drill (6.79), 20-yard shuttle (3.95) and third in 60-yard shuttle (11.18).) (2-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473997/article/marcus-peters-paul-dawson-among-combine-duds-with-promise
2015 Combine: Players who helped, hurt their draft stock (Who hurt their draft stock - Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah: Abdullah is a great guy and might be the most solid citizen in this whole draft. His work on the field for the Huskers also was impressive. And he soared to a 42.5-inch reading in the vertical jump. But in a crowded running back class, Abdullah did himself no favors with a 4.6 clocking in the 40. Straight-line speed always is a (note that we did not say "only") determining factor for running backs, and his relatively pedestrian 4.6 gives pause.)(2-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473645/article/2015-combine-players-who-helped-hurt-their-draft-stock
Combine Notebook Part II (Ameer Abdullah - He ran as expected with a 4.6 in the 40. What wasn’t expected was the outstanding explosiveness he displayed. He had a 42.5″ vertical jump, a 10’10 long jump and a 6.79 3-cone. Those numbers, especially in the jumps, are rare. His workout will keep his stock high.) (2-22-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-nfl-combine-notebook-part-ii/
Video - Ameer Abdullah runs the 40 (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Nebraska-running-back-Ameer-Abdullah-40/5b448f9b-656f-4f55-8803-e0efe7804582
RBs 2015 Combine Field Drill Recaps (Nebraska running back Ameer Abdullah had a mixed Combine. His 40 time of 4.61 seconds, unofficially, was slower than expected. However, he was superb in the field drills. His cutting and receiving ability were tremendous, as he glided through the cone drills and changed directions on a dime. His hands looked natural as well. Abdullah (5-9, 205) will probably improve on that 40 at his pro day. ) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutRB.php
Bell, Abdullah score high marks at the Combine (Bell blazed a 40 time of :04.42. It was the seventh-fastest time among receivers — tied with Alabama's Amari Cooper and Ohio State's Devin Smith. The top time, :04.28, belonged to UAB's J.J. Nelson. Bell was third among receivers in the vertical jump (41½ inches), third in the three-cone shuttle (:06.66), fourth in the broad jump (129 inches) and eighth in the 60-yard shuttle (:11.60). The receiver looked smooth running drills, albeit with a couple of pass drops, including one on a post route that left him smacking his hands together in disappointment. Still, Saturday's test results were strong after Bell began with his weakest test Friday: the bench press. Bell posted only seven reps there.) (2-21-14): http://journalstar.com/sports/huskers/football/abdullah-bell-score-high-marks-at-nfl-combine/article_c5ffec26-13db-5e07-ba84-9cdb1a4fd549.html
2015 Combine: Day 4 (Nebraska’s Ameer Abdullah ran 40s of 4.61 and 4.62, but his hands only measured in at 8 5/8 inches, which heavily contributed to his 24 collegiate fumbles. His production at Nebraska was excellent but that hand size could cause his stock to drop especially with the depth of the running back position.) (2-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-4-news-notes.html
RBs 2015 Combine Bench Press Analysis (Nebraska's Ammer Abdullah is a quick, slashing running back, but he showed that he has some strength to him by producing 24 reps. Abdullah (5-9, 205) added weight before last season, and he had more yards after contact as a result. This is proof that Abdullah was committed to the weight room.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchRB.php
Could the Lions be looking to drafting a RB? (Nebraska’s Ameer Abdullah has already been interviewed by Detroit and while most guys won’t divulge what was talked about in conversations, Abdullah seems to have a pretty good idea of what the Lions are looking for in a running back. “I know they’re looking for a guy that can do it all,” Abdullah said. A guy they don’t have to take off the field.” Abdullah had great success at Nebraska over his career rushing for 39 touchdowns and catching another 7 scores. He’s also returned punts his last 2 seasons and returned kicks all four years. Abdullah is predicted to be a mid second round pick.) (2-19-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/02/19/could-the-lions-be-looking-to-draft-a-rb/
2015 Combine: Winners and losers from Day 2 Media Session (Abdullah is picked as a winner. He might be on the smaller side among the prospects in Indy, but he had some big answers that were among the most in-depth we heard on various subjects.) (2-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000472334/article/2015-combine-winners-and-losers-from-day-2s-media-session
2015 NFL Scouting Combine players to watch: Offense (Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: His lack of size -- he measured 5-foot-8 1/4 and 198 pounds at the Senior Bowl -- is bothersome to some scouts, but his production was impressive; he was a full-time starter in his final two seasons with the Huskers and rushed for 3,301 yards and 28 TDs in those seasons. He also has proved himself as a receiver and return man. He is not a blazer, and his 40 time will be scrutinized. But he is quick, and his work in some of the other drills should be impressive.) (2-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470692/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-players-to-watch-offense
Mayock: RBs Duke Johnson, Ameer Abdullah could fit Detroit Lions ("There are two of them in the second round that make a ton of sense: Ameer Abdullah from Nebraska and Duke Johnson from Miami," Mayock said. "The knock on Abdullah, and it's significant, are fumbles. I think he had 24 career fumbles, and he lost 17 of them, which is the worst I've seen in awhile, and that's compiled with small hands. And that's what bothers the scouts is not only the fumbles but the fact that he's got small hands, which probably accounts for the fumbles." Fumbles aside, Mayock said that Abdullah, who finished 12th in the nation with 1,611 yards rushing last year, is "the quintessential space player." "Catches the football, real quick, make you miss," Mayock said.) (2-16-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/02/16/nfl-draft-rb-rankings/23513321/
Abdullah wants to make the most of each stride in Indy (2-16-15): http://journalstar.com/sports/huskers/football/abdullah-wants-to-make-the-most-of-each-stride-in/article_6570544e-bac0-5d2a-b0db-26e184da3195.html
Zierlein: 9 draft prospects who should ace combine interviews (Ameer Abdullah, RB, Nebraska
From Zierlein's scouting report: Personal and football character is considered off-the-charts by the scouting community. ... His high character will make him a hit during interview process.
Sources Tell Us: "He has the highest overall character grade I've ever given to a prospect, and includes both football character and off-the-field. Aside from (Melvin) Gordon and (Todd) Gurley, I think he's the third best running back in this draft." -- AFC North scout.) (2-13-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470315/article/zierlein-9-draft-prospects-who-should-ace-combine-interviews
2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Six running backs under scrutiny (Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska: His lack of size -- he measured 5-foot-8 1/4 and 198 pounds at the Senior Bowl -- is bothersome to some scouts, but his production was impressive; he was a full-time starter in his final two seasons with the Huskers and rushed for 3,301 yards and 28 TDs in those seasons. He also has proved himself as a receiver and return man. He is not a blazer, and his 40 time will be scrutinized. But he is quick, and his work in some of the other drills should be impressive.) (2-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000469375/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-six-running-backs-under-scrutiny
Lions NFL combine preview: Running backs (Abdullah is rated as the No. 6 running back and No. 60 player overall by ESPN. He has three straight 1,000-yard seasons as a running back. He can be a dual-threat as a runner and a receiver after catching 65 passes for 616 yards and six touchdowns in his career. There’s also return experience as he handled kick returns all four years at Nebraska and punt returns for two years. Accumulated 6,700 all-purpose yards in his career. ) (2-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/15161/lions-nfl-combine-preview-running-back
2015 Combine Preview: Running back (Best trait: Smarts – He is a high-character player who has terrific vision and football instincts. He set up runs well and was patient at the Senior Bowl. He’s extremely strong for his size and his power will surprise some people. Concern: Ball security – The quickest way to get in a coaches doghouse in this league is to fumble away the football. Abdullah fumbled 13 times during his Nebraska career, which is a significant number. The skinny: Abdullah is probably going to be a better player than his ultimate draft slot will show. His size will scare some people away, but he plays bigger than he is.) (2-10-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/2015-Combine-Preview-Running-back/850078f5-6a7c-4022-9317-650198604ace
Four Draft Prospects the Lions Must Avoid (It’s not that I don’t like the speedy, shifty Cornhusker runner. Far from it, in fact; he’s my 5th-rated RB in a very deep and talented class. Abdullah offers instant acceleration, home-run speed and excellent receiving skills out of the backfield. The problem is that Detroit already has two Ameer Abdullah’s on the roster in Reggie Bush and Theo Riddick. While Bush is bigger and older, he’s the exact same kind of player. Riddick is young and cheap, and arguably even a better receiver than either Bush or Abdullah. I know many people believe Bush is going to get cut, but I’m not one of them. Then there’s Abdullah’s God-awful pass protection. His utter inability to even slow down rushing linebackers on the way to what would be Matthew Stafford during Senior Bowl practices was embarrassing. I’m not even exaggerating here–Ameer Abdullah did worse in that drill than any other back I’ve seen in the 13 All-Star game weeks (8 Senior Bowl, 3 Shrine, 2 Texas vs. Nation) I’ve attended in person. Taking Abdullah in the third round would be a poor use of draft resources for Detroit. If you cried foul at the Eric Ebron selection last year, you would have to loathe the idea of taking a third third-down back at a pick where a potential immediate starter at defensive tackle or left guard might be had. Or else you’re just fooling yourself and you don’t believe it. You’re killing yourself, you don’t believe it. Get up, get back on your feet. You’re the one they can’t beat and you know it. Sorry, the spirit of Tommy Shaw (Google him, kids) took me over there for a minute…) (2-10-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/02/four-draft-prospects-the-lions-must-avoid
Sources Tell Us: What we're hearing about NFL draft prospects (The scoop: "He has the highest overall character grade I've ever given to a prospect, and includes both football character and off-the-field. Aside from (Melvin) Gordon and (Todd) Gurley, I think he's the third-best running back in this draft." -- AFC North scout on Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah The skinny: Abdullah earned Most Outstanding Player honors at the Reese's Senior Bowl, where despite his size (5-foot-8 1/4, 198 pounds) he impressed with his ability to run with power and be an effective receiver out of the backfield. But beyond his physical talent, it's his character and high football IQ that have made him stand out to the scouting community. Abdullah was asked recently by NFL Network what he believes scouts will like most about him during the draft process, and he said, "Leadership, a guy who's willing to pick up his teammates. That's the ultimate attribute about a player -- someone who can make the players around him better." According to NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah, Abdullah projects as a second-day draft pick.) (2-3-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000466339/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-nfl-draft-prospects
ESPN's Mel Kiper believes "ball security issues are going to dog Abdullah into the draft." ("While Abdullah performed well enough at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, I think ball security issues are going to dog him into the draft," Kiper wrote. The analyst ranks him as the No. 5 RB. Abdullah is also facing questions about his blocking. The 5-foot-8, 198-pounder was named the Senior Bowl MVP after he rushed for 73 yards and added 40 receiving yards. NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah projects him as a late-second round or early third-round pick.)(1-31-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=132102&line=39186&spln=1
Q and A with Abdullah (1-27-15): http://www.omaha.com/huskers/q-a-former-husker-rb-ameer-abdullah-reflects-on-his/article_575f87d6-a681-11e4-8460-2fce48a47446.html
Eight things we learned from the Senior Bowl (Husker makes an impact. Nebraska running back Ameer Abdullah entered Senior Bowl week looking to prove that he's big enough for the NFL at 198 pounds, and shed questions about ball security. He was explosive during the game with some impressive running, including a 19-yarder early in the game. As for his draft stock, NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah provided an early projection of late-second round or early third-round on the former Cornhuskers star.)(1-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462872/article/eight-things-we-learned-from-the-2015-senior-bowl
Senior Bowl Rules Of Thumb (Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah, the Senior Bowl game MVP for his impressive 73 yards rushing and 40 yards receiving. He’s definitely got open-field speed and proved he’s a natural catcher of the pigskin. However he also showed he’s not a runner who can consistently make the first guy miss, going down on first contact a little more often than any other runner in Mobile. He was also unspeakably awful in pass protection drills, and that is the difference between a starter and a role player in the NFL.)(1-24-15):http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2592/Senior-Bowl-Rules-Of-Thumb
2015 Senior Bowl Stock Report: Ten who stood out in mobile (Leading the victorious North squad in rushing (73 yards) and receiving (four catches for 40 yards) for a game-high 113 all-purpose yards, Abdullah was named the 2015 Senior Bowl MVP. Abdullah's terrific agility, balance and acceleration helped him stand out all week and he rose to the occasion one last time.)(1-24-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24989754/senior-bowl-stock-report-ten-who-stood-out-in-mobile
Senior Bowl Review: Offense (Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska - Most of the negatives this week regarding Abdullah focused on his poor performance in pass protection drills. Context is needed. There might be one, maybe two, good pass protectors in each class. So why do we count it as a negative against a prospect? I understand pointing out a player does not win there, but instead of critiquing so many, we should heap extra praise on those who can pass protect or at least have a foundation to work with.)(1-24-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51877/351/senior-bowl-review-offense
Abdullah leads North squad to Senior Bowl win (Despite playing with a hamstring injury he suffered earlier in the week, former Nebraska star Ameer Abdullah was selected as the Most Outstanding Player in the game. Abdullah led the North in receiving (4 catches for 40 yards) averaged more than 10 yards per carry (7-73) as he hit the hole quickly and was able to burst through for several big gains. "It was a fun game against some of the best players in college football with a lot of talent and guys you'll see make a lot of money one day in the NFL," Abdullah said. "It was surreal being back in Alabama for my last game. You couldn't ask for a better story. I left Alabama for Nebraska and now I played my last college game here.") (1-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462871/article/ameer-abdullah-shines-as-north-beats-south-in-senior-bowl
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Thursday North Practice Notes (Nebraska’s Ameer Abdullah was bullied by blitzing linebackers, and his lack of bulk is going to limit his contributions as a pass blocker. He works hard, but doesn’t have the power to jolt the rushers back. He looked good on several inside running plays, specifically when he had to one cut up the field.)(1-22-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-thursday-north-practice-notes.html
2015 Senior Bowl Thursday's North Practice Report (Nebraska running back Ameer Abdullah did well on Thursday. He showed his speed when he exploded into the secondary in the run scrimmage after he ran untouched through the front seven. Abdullah will need to work on his pass protection, but once he gets that done, he could be a valuable third-down back with some receiving ability.) (1-22-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice6.php
Eight things we learned from Day 3 of Senior Bowl practices (Nebraska running back Ameer Abdullah hurt his hamstring during drills and seemed to aggravate it after making a cut during the 9-on-7 period.)(1-22-15):http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462299/article/eighmayock-tj-clemmings-losing-buzz-as-potential-top10-pick
6 Day 2 standouts (Abdullah was a standout. The Doak Walker Award finalist was among the most electrifying players in the country last season, but he measured a shorter-than-expected 5-foot-8 1/4 at the Senior Bowl. He'll draw comparisons to guys like Darren Sproles for his build and what he can do in the passing game, but Abdullah did show enough between the tackles Wednesday to turn some heads. "He's interesting to me," Conway said. "I like him a lot, but I don't know if scouts are going to be turned off by his size. He's an explosive kid.")(1-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461702/article/miamis-clive-walford-among-day-2-standouts-at-senior-bowl
Optimum Scouting's 2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Wednesday North Practice Notes (Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah moves at a different speed than the other backs on the North roster. He is decisive in his reads, able to bend and explode through cuts, and quick enough to take edge on perimeter plays. He’s undersized at 5’8, 198 lbs, but a ball carrier that sees blocks develop and can access cutbacks.)(1-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-wednesday-north-practice-notes.html
Senior Bowl: Wednesday North Notes (Abdullah is a great receiver who is lightning after the catch. He uses his hands naturally and gets north/south with urgency. Yet in pass protection drills he was as bad as any back I’ve seen in my seven Senior Bowls and four Shrine Games. Absolute zero functional strength and no concept of what to do with his hands.)(1-21-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2590/Senior-Bowl-Wed-North-Notes
2015 Senior Bowl: Mixed bag from Petty on Day 2 and other North Notes (Nebraska running back Ameer Abdullah will be in the top-75 mix and possibly the top senior running back drafted due to his natural burst, balance and playmaking skills. However, his deficiencies in pass protection stand out on tape and were exposed again during Tuesday's practice. He is willing and tough, but his 198-pound frame simply lacks the base strength or upper body power to control or stop rushers in their tracks. Abdullah is a versatile talent who is fun to watch run the rock, but it's clear his best role in the NFL is probably as a change of pace option where he won't be tasked with protecting the pocket.)(1-21-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24982030/senior-bowl-mixed-bag-from-petty-on-day-two
Senior Bowl: Pauline's Day 1 Risers (Abdullah picked as a riser. In a nutshell …wow! Abdullah, 5-8, 198, is fast on film and even faster in person. He has a great burst which he turns on in a single step and is able to run away from defenders once in open field. His pass-catching skills out of the backfield were top notch and he looked seamless when lined up as a receiver.) (1-20-15): http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Senior-Bowl-Paulines-Day-1-Risers/8ca339eb-e851-4b82-9e65-de2eead6d34c
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Tuesday North Practice Notes (Nebraska’s Ameer Abdullah moved at a different speed than the other running backs, showing off the burst and quickness that made him so effective in the Big Ten. He’s twitchy and built low to the ground, making him a small target to nail down. His 8 3/8’s hand measurements are a concern, but his overall skill set is fun to watch.)(1-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-tuesday-north-practice-notes.html
NFP's Senior Bowl Notebook - Day 1 (Ameer Abdullah doesn’t have great size at 5082 – 198 but he is very quick and strong. He has outstanding balance and excellent vision on the move. He reminds me of two former great Buffalo Bills' running backs (Thurman Thomas and Joe Cribbs). If he turns out like either, some NFL club will have themselves a great back. Everyone I talk to raves about Abdullah's character.)(1-20-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Senior-Bowl-Notebook-Day-1.html
Norris: Senior Bowl Day 1 (Norris could see some comparisons made between Ameer Abdullah and Gio Bernard.)(1-20-15):http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51759/351/norris-senior-bowl-day-1
2015 Senior Bowl: Ivy Leaguers Varga, Hodges show NFL physiques (With the players announced alphabetically, Abdullah had the first opportunity to wow scouts and he certainly did so, showing off a chiseled physique that provided ample evidence that his game is much more that elusiveness and acceleration. At just over 5-foot-8 (and a 1/4"), Abdullah does not possess great height but his 198 pounds are well distributed.) (1-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24980475/senior-bowl-ivy-leaguers-varga-hodges-show-nfl-physiques
Six notables from the Senior Bowl (Nebraska running back Ameer Abdullah measured just 5-8 1/4 and 198 pounds, the smallest but most accomplished running back at the Senior Bowl this week.)(1-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461071/article/bryce-petty-measures-well-at-senior-bowl-weighin
10 Senior Bowl prospects to watch (He’s Nebraska's all-time leader in all-purpose yardage, and that’s saying something with that program's history of running the football. He’s the kind of shifty back with speed the Lions could be interested in obtaining this offseason with Reggie Bush entering the latter part of his career. He might not be a bad option in day two of the draft.)(1-20-15):http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/10-Senior-Bowl-prospects-to-watch/cbee701a-3d15-4bf9-b7ca-7ff995760e9e
10 Senior Bowl prospects for Detroit Lions fans to watch (A versatile back with good speed and open-field elusiveness. He could help fill the void in the backfield rotation if the Lions opt to part ways with Reggie Bush this offseason.)(1-20-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/01/10_senior_bowl_prospects_for_d.html
Jeremiah: Productive RB Abdullah's size shouldn't be an issue (1-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461182/article/daniel-jeremiah-size-shouldnt-be-issue-for-ameer-abdullah
Senior Bowl: 7 players for Lions fans to watch (The Lions will be looking to upgrade their running game this off-season, and one player who could of interest is Abdullah. He's on the small side (5-feet-9), but the second-team All-America would be a nice complement to Joique Bell. He topped 1,600 yards rushing each of the last two years, has good hands out of the backfield and should land somewhere on the second day of the draft.)(1-19-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/01/19/senior-bowl-top-nfl-prospects/21988067/
2015 Senior Bowl Preview (Abdullah made the most of monstrous holes at Nebraska, creating a lot of yards with speed and missed arm tackles. he also made a handful of big plays as a receiver. Teams will want to know if he works best behind base or slanting fronts and how he runs when lanes aren’t obvious.)(1-19-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51714/351/2015-senior-bowl-preview
2015 Senior Bowl: 10 offensive prospects to watch (As Nebraska's all-time leader in all-purpose yardage, there is more than enough game film out there for scouts to evaluate Abdullah. However, his performance in pass protection drills in Mobile will be a crucial part of his final draft grade. NFL teams know what Abdullah offers as an athlete, but his ability as a blocker will shape his role at the next level.)(1-18-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/24975640/senior-bowl-10-offensive-prospects-to-watch
2015 Senior Bowl: North Offense Scouting Preview (The catalyst of the flash-less Nebraska offense this year, Abdullah plays with great short-area quickness and burst, allowing him to keep his balance and thrive on the interior despite not being a power back, turning small areas into persistent big games. He’s a complete back who produces inside and out, and should separate himself in most areas from the rest of this running back group.) (1-17-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-north-offense-scouting-preview.html
Abdullah part of crowded RB field in draft (1-7-15): http://journalstar.com/sports/huskers/life-in-the-red/abdullah-part-of-crowded-rb-field-in-draft/article_b3f810cc-9690-11e4-baf7-d79448077a8f.html
Nebraska senior RB Ameer Abdullah was mostly bottled up in Saturday's Holiday Bowl loss to USC, running for just 89 rushing yards on 27 carries. (He also scored a touchdown. The Trojans' coaching staff deserves a ton of credit for this wild, three-point win. On defense, the school keyed in on Abdullah and held the star RB to only 3.3 yards per rush. On offense, they charted out a quick-hit passing attack that neutralized star Husker DE Randy Gregory. We like the 5-foot-9, 200-pound Abdullah, but don't like his odds of getting taken in Round 2, or perhaps even Round 3. This stacked running back class includes Georgia's Todd Gurley, Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon, South Carolina's Mike Davis, Alabama's T.J. Yeldon, Indiana's Tevin Coleman, Miami's Duke Johnson, Boise State's Jay Ajayi and Florida's Matt Jones.) (12-28-14): http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=132102&line=38113&spln=1
Week 13 Prospect Preview (RB Ameer Abdullah was limited to just 69 yards in last week's game. But his biggest struggles were ball security and pass protection, two areas he needs to focus on in this game.)(11-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24822379/nfl-draft-prospect-preview-who-to-watch-in-week-13
2015 NFL Draft: Week 12 Stock Report (Abdullah had an average performance rushing the ball, but was below average in two key areas: ball security and pass protection. Abdullah finished with one fumble lost in the game, but it could have easily been three after a fumble was overturned on replay and another fumble was credited to the quarterback after a botched hand-off. The Huskers' back also struggled in pass protection as his lack of length, size and strength were exposed when attempting to sustain or do much to stop blitzers. Abdullah had a tough time recognizing where pressure was coming from and was uprooted at the point of attack when he squared up with the rusher. He still carries a second day grade, but Gordon clearly out-shined Abdullah in this match-up.) (11-18-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24818692/nfl-draft-week-12-stock-report
Scout's Take (He was in the stock down group. Scouts pay close attention to how well a blue-chip prospect performs in a primetime game because the experience mirrors the pressure and intensity of an NFL game. For the second time this season, Abdullah failed to play up to expectations in a big game against a Big Ten rival. Against Wisconsin, the 5-9, 195-pound senior rushed for only 69 yards on 18 carries and lost a fumble. Those numbers are an improvement over his dismal output against Michigan State (24 rushes for 45 yards), but they are part of a trend that suggests Abdullah doesn't bring his A-game when he plays elite competition. Given the depth of the 2014 running back class, Abdullah's underwhelming play in big games could torpedo his stock in pre-draft meetings.) (11-17-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000429903/article/scouts-take-can-melvin-gordon-outshine-past-wisconsin-rbs
Abdullah suffered a MCL sprain against Nebraska (11-1-14): http://www.omaha.com/huskers/blogs/ameer-abdullah-injury-update/article_33ae7b06-6227-11e4-af51-0017a43b2370.html
Scout's Take (If not for a disappointing effort against Michigan State, Abdullah would garner more consideration as a Heisman Trophy candidate after posting his fourth 200-yard game on the season in Nebraska's 42-24 win over Rutgers. The 5-9, 195-pound senior is an instinctive playmaker with outstanding vision, balance and body control. Although he lacks exceptional top-end speed, Abdullah continues to break off big runs as the feature runner in the Huskers' zone-read system. He displays the wiggle, burst and pitter-pat to make defenders miss in the hole and is a slippery runner in the open field. Given his production and potential as a feature back, Abdullah has moved up the charts as an intriguing early-round prospect.)(10-27-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000418730/article/scouts-take-shaq-thompson-will-benefit-from-twoway-ability
Five RB prospects to keep an eye on (Without Abdullah, Nebraska's record (5-1) would be far less impressive. As he goes, Nebraska goes. He's fourth in the FBS with 878 yards rushing.) (10-14-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000410978/article/todd-gurley-puts-nfl-drafts-firstround-rb-drought-in-jeopardy
2015 NFL Draft: Week 6 Prospect Preview (Although he doesn't receive as much national attention as he deserves, Abdullah leads college football in rushing with 833 yards on the ground, averaging 166.6 rushing yards and 212.0 all-purpose yards per game. He is on pace for over 2,100 rushing yards in 2014, but his tape might be even more impressive than his stat sheet. Abdullah has outstanding balance and body control, using his low center of gravity and vision to string together moves and always appears two steps ahead of defenders.) (10-2-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24733582/nfl-draft-week-6-prospect-preview
Sources tell us: What we're hearing about top prospects (The scoop: Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah already has three 200-yard games this season and leads FBS in rushing yards with 833. "He's not Todd Gurley or Melvin Gordon, but he's making us all take notice," an AFC scout said. The skinny: The scout's comment highlights the potential for things to change for running backs in the NFL draft -- there is much talent at the position as Abdullah, despite his tremendous play, is widely considered the third-best rusher in college football. There's no shame in that for him, though. He's carrying the Huskers right now and is among the backs with the potential to snap the streak of drafts without a first-round running back at two.)
(10-1-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000403674/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-nfl-prospects
Stock Report: Abdullah rises (It's time to throw Abdullah's name into the Heisman Trophy mix after the Nebraska standout notched his third 200-yard game of the season. The 5-foot-9, 195-pound senior rumbled for 208 yards and three touchdowns on 22 carries against Illinois. While the output was certainly expected against an Illini defense that's struggled against elite competition, Abdullah's consistent production and outstanding skills are quickly making him one of the fastest risers in the 2015 draft class.) (9-29-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000402833/article/stock-report-ameer-abdullah-rises-christian-hackenberg-falls
Abdullah looks like a NFL RB (9-26-14): http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/story/2014-09-26/ameer-abdullah-scouting-report-nfl-draft-nebraska-running-back-big-ten
Week 2 scouting report (Abdullah added another highlight to his Heisman Trophy resume with a game-winning 58-yard catch-and-run touchdown. Although he was slowed most of the game by McNeese State, averaging only 3.2 yards on the ground, Abdullah showed once again why he's the most dangerous weapon on the Huskers roster and also why he is my No. 1 rated senior running back prospect for the 2015 NFL Draft. At 195 pounds, he doesn't have the ideal build for the NFL level, but his combination of natural balance, vision and acceleration out of his cuts shows that he can not only be effective in the NFL, but also thrive. Don't let the size scare you.) (9-9-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24702638/nfl-draft-week-two-stock-report
RB Jay Ajayi:
Scouting Reports:
Boise State Profile Page: http://www.broncosports.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/jay_ajayi_842171.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/jay-ajayi?id=2552582
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1825212/jay-ajayi
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=120046&draftyear=2015&genpos=RB
2015 NFL Draft profile: Jay Ajayi: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/2/25/8096623/2015-nfl-draft-profile-jay-ajayi
Articles:
Previewing the NFL draft's RB prospects (Jay Ajayi, Boise State (Height: 6-0. Weight: 221.): Scouting report: He carried quite a heavy load while at Boise State, rushing for 1,823 yards (with 28 touchdowns) and catching 50 passes for 535 yards (with four touchdowns) last season. That should prove his versatility and his ability to be a No. 1 running back in the NFL — as long as he can convince teams his legs are fresh and he can handle a similar workload. Insider's take: "I felt like he was a big back with quick feet. Came downhill, finished runs. Pretty much liked everything about him as a really solid second-round guy," — NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock. Projected round: Second.) (4-29-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/29/running-back-prospects-melvin-gordon-wisconsin-todd-gurley/26578901/
Prospects who could be in for a draft-day slide (Jay Ajayi, RB, Boise State: One of the most prolific rushers in the nation in 2014, Ajayi finished his season with 1,823 yards and 28 carries on an NCAA-leading 347 carries. He looks every bit the picture of a future NFL running back, but as happens with so many at his position, Ajayi's workload could work against him—especially if the alleged concerns about his knee hold up. Ajayi tore his right ACL in 2011, and several legitimate insiders believe the league wonder how durable he'll be, though he wasn't asked to attend the combine's medical re-check. Ajayi is probably a second-round prospect without those issues, but if he slides, that's likely why.) (4-29-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/29/2015-nfl-draft-potential-sliders-shane-ray-randy-gregory
Injury Analysis for 2015 Draft (Jay Ajayi, Boise State: Injury History - Ajayi tore his ACL in 2011. Analysis - There is a lot of swirl around the state of the meniscus of Ajayi’s knee that was injured in 2011. The concern is that the cartilage has been damaged and his knee would require microfracture surgery to correct. The surgery is a roll of the dice and players struggle to come back from it (Reggie Bush and Marques Colston both made it back to form following the procedure). From the reports that we have studied there is nothing to suggest his knee at risk. Tears in the meniscus can be played through without surgery immediately being required to clean it up. MJD, Arian Foster and Chris Johnson played out a full season with torn cartilage and were no worse for wear. For Ajayi’s knee to be so severely damaged one would expect there to be: At least one report throughout his college career mentioning a knee issue of some kind. A reference to some form of off season arthroscopic surgery (siting’s of Ajayi on crutches that sort of thing). Missed games due to injury. On the surface this appears to be the 2015 version of the 2013 Lacy “fused-toe” rumor. Lacy has injury concerns but none that would suggest his career was at risk as a result of a procedure on his toe. From our view – Ajayi is one of the safer picks in the draft and if his stock continues to fall someone is going to get huge value at his reduced price.) (4-28-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/53796/468/injury-analysis-for-2015-draft
16 things we learned from Mike Mayock's media teleconference (Ajayi's health: There are some medical concerns about Boise State running back Jay Ajayi, though he remains a "solid" second-round pick. Some teams are more concerned than others, Mayock said, but the issues won't help him on Day 2.) (4-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000487750/article/16-things-we-learned-from-mike-mayocks-media-teleconference
2015 NFL Draft: Boise State RB Jay Ajayi's knee a concern for NFL teams (4-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25156179/nfl-draft-boise-state-rb-jay-ajayis-knee-a-concern-for-nfl-teams
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (3. Jay Ajayi, Boise State: There’s a good chance Ajayi will be this year’s Le’Veon Bell or Jeremy Hill, a first-round quality player who fell to the second because of his position. The 6-foot, 221-pound Ajayi can do everything NFL teams want from a back. He can run inside and outside, catch the ball and block. His footwork and physicality are tough to match in this class, but his seven fumbles last year are a negative.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
Greg Cosell's NFL draft preview: Examining the top RBs in a great class (Jay Ajayi, Boise State: Ajayi is another back in this class I really like. He has excellent size and build for an NFL running back. His body type is similar to Marshawn Lynch's. That’s not to say he’s Lynch, but he has that build. Ajayi showed some natural shiftiness and wiggle in confined space. He has quick feet for a 221-pound back. Loose hips, quick feet and easy acceleration define Ajayi’s running style – he has the feet and lateral agility of a smaller back. He is a smooth runner who at times glides with easy movement; a slasher with the ability to make defenders miss. Overall he has the traits of a foundation back in the NFL: Size, quick feet, lateral agility, short-area burst, natural power.) (4-12-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--examining-the-top-running-backs-in-a-great-class-184532748.html
Jay Ajayi dines with Dallas Cowboys, visits Baltimore Ravens (4-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484704/article/jay-ajayi-dines-with-dallas-cowboys-visits-baltimore-ravens
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (Jay Ajayi, Boise State (6-0, 221): He's not Gurley, but he is somewhat of a complete package when it comes to his skills. He can run with power and has speed on the outside despite a 4.57-second 40-yard dash time. He is a good pass catcher -- 73 career receptions -- but fumbling might be something to look at. He had 12 in three years, losing seven. His footwork is at a high-level, too, in part due to his background in soccer. He'd be a strong second round pick for Detroit.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (3/41. *Jay Ajayi, Boise State, 6-0, 221, 4.52, 2: --Nigerian import, via London: Born in London to Nigerian parents, Ajayi moved to the U.S. in 2000 and was an outstanding soccer player recruited by the Nigerian National team. But when the family moved to Texas, he showed serious talent at Frisco Liberty High School in both track and football of the American type. He was recruited by Boise State where he had a tough time in 2011 when he tore an ACL as a redshirt freshman and was arrested for stealing sweatpants. Time has healed and matured Ajayi and in 2014 he set school records for rushing yards (1,823), carries (347), all-purpose yardage (2,358), rushing touchdowns (28) and 100-yard rushing performances (10). He obviously benefitted from his days playing soccer as he runs with great balance at all times and can explode in any direction at any time. Although he added weight to his soccer body, Ajayi can use even more muscle up top and in his legs to avoid easy takedowns. For a guy who grew up depending on his feet, Ajayi is surprisingly effective as a receiver where he shows exceptional hand-eye coordination. --Measuring up: At the combine, Ajayi was exactly 5-feet - 11 3/4 inches tall. He ran 40 yards in 4.57 seconds (10 in 1.59), soared 39 inches in the vertical jump, 10-feet-1 inch in the broad jump and benched 225 pounds 19 times. At his March 18 pro day he stood on his combine numbers, but showed exceptional skill as a pass-catcher. --Notable quote "To be able to be on the field three downs you have to be good enough running the ball on first and second down and being capable of picking up blitzes on third down, catching the ball out of the backfield on third down. That's where a lot of these games are won, converting on those third downs and getting more first downs. You have to find running backs who are able to do that." - Ajayi on the value of an every-down back, which he considers himself to be. --Frankly: Ajayi is not a sure thing, but his natural abilities are tremendous. His instincts and moves as a runner cannot be taught and he seems comfortable as a receiver. But Ajayi will need to add muscle to pass block and he must prove he can use those big, 10-inch hands to keep the ball secure.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
2015 NFL Draft: Top five pass-catching running back prospects (2. Jay Ajayi, Boise State: Ajayi's role as a receiver in the Boise State offense exploded last year. He went from 20 receptions in 2013 to a whopping 50 last year. Only eight running backs in college football averaged more than Ajayi's 3.6 catches per game. His hands aren't as soft as Abdullah's, but he can generate first downs from the flat better than most backs his size (221 pounds). NFL fit: Dallas Cowboys. If the Cowboys don't invest their first-round pick in a running back, Ajayi should be a strong consideration. A Dallas-area native (Plano), Ajayi could be a nice hometown answer for a Cowboys team that just lost the NFL rushing champion to a division rival -- and Ajayi is well aware of the vacancy.) (4-8-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484193/article/2015-nfl-draft-top-five-passcatching-rb-prospects
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (4. Jay Ajayi, Boise State: Ajayi is an increasingly popular pick among analysts as the third-best running back in this draft, behind Gurley and Gordon. It's easy to envision him as a three-down back on an NFL team due both to his solid frame (6'0", 221 pounds) and his comfort level in all aspects of an offense. Ajayi accumulated a whopping 397 touches last season—a number that could be a positive or negative, depending on which team you ask. Fifty of those touches came on receptions for a total of 535 yards and four touchdowns. There's also little need for a short-yardage back if Ajayi's around, as his 28 rushing touchdowns last season proved. Projection: Mid- to late second round) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
NFL Draft Superlatives: Crowning the members of the class of 2015 (Running back most likely to keep the "feature back" label alive Le'Veon Bell Award: Boise State running back Jay Ajayi - The NFL has gone running back by committee crazy. The reason? To prolong running backs' careers. But hey, hold up. The older generation doesn't want the feature back to quietly fade away to nothing. The mumbling noise you just heard was today's American grandpa hollering "Pro football was built on star, center-of-the-offense running backs!!!" as he slammed his rocks glass onto the side table next to his rocking chair. In 2014, Le'Veon Bell's 2,215-yard, defense-destructing campaign made a strong case for an ultra-skilled running back to not have to share his carries with lesser talents. Jay Ajayi bears a striking resemblance to the Steelers stud. Remember though, Bell was a heavy, bruising back at Michigan State and really benefitted from shedding weight after making Pittsburgh his new home. Ajayi is a sturdy 6'0" and 220 pounds -- similar to Bell -- and is much more nimble than his size suggests. He can be patient behind his blockers when need be, but he showcased impressive suddenness bursting through lanes and after he reached the second level while in college. Like Bell, Ajayi doesn't have world-class speed and won't hit many "home runs." However, when he's not running through weak arm tackle attempts, he's making a linebacker miss down the field with sharp cuts that come from "smart" anticipatory vision.) (4-3-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25134444/nfl-draft-superlatives-clowning-the-members-of-the-class-of-2015
Film review: RB Ajayi would add dimensions to Lions (4-3-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/03/jay-ajayi-nfl-draft/70872860/
Nos. 49-45: Offensive weapons bound for Round 2 (49. Jay Ajayi, RB, Boise State: Bio: A tremendously productive player, Ajayi is the only person in FBS history to amass 1,800 rushing yards and 500 receiving yards in the same season, which he did in 2014. This wasn't a fluke, either—Ajayi rushed for 1,425 yards and added 222 receiving yards in '13. Boise State players tend to be undervalued for a number of reasons (such as a fallacious belief that the strength of competition is an issue), but he gained 229 yards against Utah State in 2014, and that defense ranked 24th in the nation in defensive efficiency, per Football Outsiders—and gained 86 yards against Mississippi, who ranked third in those same rankings. Ajayi is a top-class back ready for the NFL in many ways. Strengths: Has outstanding balance and jump-cut ability when bouncing outside—can move between two gaps in the time it takes other backs to hit one. Tough player who runs low to the ground for the most part and fights for extra yards after contact. Excellent vision, especially in the open field—uses agility to break plays open. Hits a different level of speed in the open field. Willing receiver with potential to expand his route tree. Not afraid to take a hit in traffic. Patient runner who has the potential to improve in this area. Could be a three-down franchise back with a few blocking classes. Weaknesses: Decisive for the most part, but there are times when Ajayi loses yardage because he's looking too hard for bigger gaps. High-cut runner (6'0", 221 pounds) who will take more hits because he's a bigger target. Blocking can be a real adventure for him—he seems to alternate between misdirected and disinterested. Has 11 fumbles over his last 600 carries. Serious workload over the last two seasons is a concern, and he was suspended in 2011 and '12 for an off-campus violation. Serious knee injury in 2011, though he recovered especially well from it. Conclusion: I've seen some compare Ajayi toMarshawn Lynch, and while Ajayi doesn't have Lynch's ability to create yardage out of nothing (few backs do, really), there's a lot to be said for a back with his balanced profile and extreme production against some top-quality defenses. People tend to forget that when Darren McFadden came out of Arkansas in the 2008 draft, he was also a strong inside runner—not just a speed guy. Ajayi has some of the same special characteristics, and the same possibility that he could get lost on the wrong team. He'll need to learn to run lower in the NFL, and will likely require openings from his offensive line, but in the right system, he could put up some seriously impressive stats. Pro Comparison: Darren McFadden, Cowboys(Round 1, 2008).) (4-2-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/02/2015-nfl-draft-ranking-si-64-jay-ajayi-carl-davis-nelson-agholor
Video - Boise State's Jay Ajayi could be type of back Lions pursue (4-2-15): http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=12569817
Cowboys will host five of 2015 draft's best running backs for visits (the 5 RBs are Gurley, Gordon, Coleman, Ajayi and Abdullah) (3-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481528/article/todd-gurley-among-five-running-backs-to-visit-dallas-cowboys
2015 NFL draft: this week in pro days (Boise State’s Jay Ayaji is known for his bruising running style but caught everything that was thrown to him at his pro day. He seems like a good fit for a team like San Diego, who could be in the running back market.) (3-20-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-this-week-in-pro-days-2.html
Boise State RB Ajayi interviewed with four NFL clubs at Broncos' pro day (3-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000480072/article/falcons-49ers-vikings-jaguars-interview-jay-ajayi
Boise State's Ajayi has stellar workout in front of RB coaches from three teams (Boise State running back Jay Ajayi (6-foot, 224 pounds) stood on his numbers from the NFL Scouting Combine, where he was a top performer among running backs in the vertical jump, broad jump, 20-yard short shuttle and 60-yard shuttle. At Boise State's pro day, Ajayi had an outstanding workout. He was really quick in his routes and cuts. He is a good receiver out of the backfield.) (3-18-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479886/article/rb-coaches-from-jags-chargers-seahawks-watch-jay-ajayi
Zierlein's top 10 RB prospects (4. Jay Ajayi, Boise State - Zierlein's bottom line: While a comparison to Marshawn Lynch might be a little much considering Lynch's exploits in the NFL, Ajayi's running style and body type are very similar to Lynch's and Ajayi features an improving stiff arm and physicality that has become Lynch's calling card. Ajayi has the ability to play all three downs while mashing in short yardage and near the goal line. Scouts have been quietly circling Ajayi as a second-tier running back who offers tremendous value on the second day (Rounds 2-3) of the draft.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479538/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-running-backs
Q&A with Jay Ajayi: Boise State RB on Cowboys, DeMarco Murray, pro day (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479562/article/jay-ajayi-playing-for-dallas-cowboys-would-be-awesome
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Ajayi's fumble rate is once in every 62.6 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
The NFL Draft’s 5 best Running Backs (5. Jay Ajayi – If you want a complete back, Ajayi just may be your guy. In 2014, he ran for over 1800 yards and had 50 receptions. He also scored 32 touchdowns. That’s production! At 6000 – 221, he has size to go along with adequate speed (4.57). While he may not be a burner, he is very quick with excellent change of direction and body control. He is productive both inside and out and is able to get yards after contact. He has good vision and is a good jump cutter and cutback runner. As a receiver, he has soft hands and does a good job getting open. Like many college backs, he has to improve his blocking skills. I can see Ajayi becoming a starter early in his career and becoming a productive NFL back.) (3-3-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/the-nfl-drafts-5-best-running-backs
NFL Draft Top 50, Nos. 41-50: Devin Funchess talented but flawed player (45. Boise State RB Jay Ajayi
6-0, 221: A well-built, forceful runner who plays with emotion and fights for extra yards, Ajayi has quick feet, runs low for his build and can break arm tackles. A three-down back with receiving and pass-blocking ability, Ajayi might be as complete a back as there is in this draft, but he can be frustrating to watch at times, too often trying to bounce runs outside and not trusting his blocks and vision. Fumbling has been a problem, and character red flags are out there after a 2011 arrest. Ajayi also has endured a heavy workload and might have a short but brilliant career. NFL comparison: Style compares to Marshawn Lynch, even if few backs match his total package. Draft range: Second round, maybe early third.) (3-2-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-draft-top-50--nos--41-50--devin-funchess-talented-but-polarizing-prospect-205430152.html
Top Combine Performers at Lions position of need (Jay Ajayi, 6-0, 221-Boise St.: Ajayi showed remarkable quickness and agility for a back at 221 pounds. He finished in top three among running backs in the 20- and 60-yard shuttle and also performed well in the vertical (39 inches) and broad jump (10'1'').) (2-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473997/article/marcus-peters-paul-dawson-among-combine-duds-with-promise
Lions Combine Gleanings (Jay Ajayi from Boise State is a very real possibility in the third round. He’s a power back at 221 pounds with big hands (10″) and is an accomplished receiver with 50 catches last fall. Keep an eye on him.) (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/02/lions-combine-gleanings/
RBs 2015 Combine Field Drill Recaps (Boise State Jay Ajayi had some draft momentum building, but he didn't help it with a 40 time of 4.57 seconds, unofficially. It wasn't bad, but Ajayi would have helped himself if he could have posted a faster time. Ajayi (6-0, 221) did fine in the field work, but didn't really stand out.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutRB.php
RBs 2015 Combine Bench Press Analysis (Boise State running back Jay Ajayi (6-0, 221) runs with power, but he had only 19 reps on the bench press. It was surprising that Ajayi didn't produce more.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchRB.php
Ajayi arrives at Combine (2-20-14): http://www.idahostatesman.com/2015/02/20/3654519_jay-train-arrives-at-nfl-scouting.html
2015 NFL Combine: RB Weigh-In Analysis (Boise State running back Jay Ajayi is a hot prospect who could end up rising even higher with an impressive Combine. Ajayi (6-0, 221) is thickly built with 10-inch hands. It wouldn't be surprising if Ajayi is one of the stars of the Combine, as he has a unique blend of size, speed, and athleticism.) (2-19-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015weighinRB.php
2015 Combine: Winners and losers from Day 2 Media Session (Ajayi is picked as a loser. The well-spoken Boise State tailback had the unfortunate timing of going to the podium at the same time as Marcus Mariota, virtually ensuring that nobody heard what he had to say. That's tough.) (2-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000472334/article/2015-combine-winners-and-losers-from-day-2s-media-session
2015 NFL Combine: Five things to know (Growing up in North Texas, Boise State RB Jay Ajayi watched Emmitt Smith when he was younger and mentioned four current NFL running backs that he patterns his game after, including 2014 rushing champ DeMarco Murray of the Dallas Cowboys. And with Murray's future in Dallas up in the air, Ajayi fits the mold of a three-down back that the Cowboys wants for the offense.)(2-19-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25074274/nfl-combine-five-things-to-know-dgb-passes-the-eye-test
2015 NFL Combine - Tuesday (Right now I’m told there’s a wide opinion on where Jay Ajayi ranks amongst ball carriers. Some teams grade the Boise State junior as the second or third rated running back on their board while others have him listed as low as the eight or ninth back. For the record Ajayi is our third rated running back.) (2-17-15): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10435
NFL Combine options wide open for the Lions (Likely a second-rounder, the 5-foot-11 Ajayi is another every-down back. He's not a hot name because he's not the fastest back, but he had 1,823 rushing yards, 535 receiving yards and 32 total touchdowns in 2014.) (2-16-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-cedric-ogbuehi-and-brandon-scherff/
Ajayi trains for the NFL with Melvin Gordan (2-13-15): http://www.idahostatesman.com/2015/02/13/3643246/boise-states-jay-ajayi-trains.html
What we're hearing about top prospects (The scoop: "Of all the backs in this draft, Ajayi might be my favorite because he can do everything you want from a back and you don't have to find a complementary back to pick up the slack for him in any one area." -- AFC scout in charge of grading running backs on Boise State RB Jay Ajayi. The skinny: In addition to having a physical running style that brings to mind Seattle Seahawks star Marshawn Lynch, Ajayi stands out for his ability to play all three downs and mash in short yardage and near the goal line. He's also a true weapon out of the backfield, with adequate hands and a good feel for maximizing each catch in space. His pass-protection technique needs improvement, but scouts have quietly been circling Ajayi as a second-tier running back who offers tremendous value on Day 2 of the draft.) (2-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000469399/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-draft-prospects
Lions NFL Combine Preview: RBs (Jay Ajayi, Boise State (6-0, 216): Rated as the No. 4 running back and No. 67 player overall by ESPN. He carried the ball 678 times for 3,796 yards and 50 touchdowns in his career. He has receiving skills as well with 73 catches for 771 yards and five touchdowns. He is listed as above average by ESPN/Scouts Inc. in most categories and exceptional in the passing game. His footwork is also going to be good due to his soccer background growing up in England and potentially having a chance to try out for the Nigerian national team. He could be a nice mid-round pick for Detroit.) (2-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/15161/lions-nfl-combine-preview-running-backs
Davis: I like Ajayi better than Doug Martin ("Jay Ajayi is a player I didn't really know much about when I put on the tape, but I loved the way he ran the football," Daniel Jeremiah said. "The power he had was impressive, the vision was impressive. Overall, his balance is what makes him rare." Charles Davis added: "He's going to be one of those kids who, as soon as we talk about him, people will go, 'What is the comparison?' Immediately, people are going to compare him to the Muscle Hamster, who also came out of Boise State, in Doug Martin. I don't think (Ajayi) is Doug Martin -- I like him better than Martin coming out, and Martin hit the league like a bomb but has had some injury trouble since then. "I think (Ajayi) is a complete back who developed real quickly at Boise State, and I thought his one year under (coach) Bryan Harsin was a godsend because he had him doing everything.") (2-9-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000469642/article/davis-i-like-jay-ajayi-better-than-buccaneers-doug-martin
Most fascinating pro comps for prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Jay Ajayi, RB, Boise State - The NFL comp: Marshawn Lynch. The skinny: Ajayi (6-foot, 216 pounds) is about the same size as Lynch was entering the league, but what really catches my eye is that Ajayi has the same wide base as he approaches the line of scrimmage. He has a wide, powerful base, and he runs very aggressively like Lynch. I'm not saying he's as good as Lynch is right now, but his running style is very similar.) (2-4-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000468159/article/most-fascinating-pro-comps-for-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
Running angry is working for Ajayi (12-28-14): http://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/college/2014/12/27/running-angry-working-boise-state-rb-jay-ajayi/20952167/
Ajayi declares for draft (12-21-14): http://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/12/21/boise-state-running-back-jay-ajayi-declares-for-nfl-draft/
Inside the Pocket: 2014 College Football All-Underrated Team (RB Jay Ajayi, Boise State: Ajayi was snubbed for the Doak Walker, the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year and a number of other honors, but don't worry, he earns a place on this list because of his terrific season in powering the Broncos to the league title and a Fiesta Bowl berth. He had a streak of seven straight games with 100-plus yards rushing and is not just a workhorse but a complete back with ability to pick up blocks and catch the ball out of the backfield. He's somewhat well-known but doesn't get the love other backs do around the country.) (12-14-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000444843/article/inside-the-pocket-2014-college-football-allunderrated-team
Prospect Watch: Top players to watch in upcoming conference title games (Jay Ajayi, RB, Boise State: Running backs face a little different situation when deciding whether or not to turn pro. Few, if any, are drawing first-round picks these days and teams are extremely wary of drafting running backs who had heavy collegiate workloads. So there may not be a better opportunity for Ajayi, a junior, to head to the NFL than now -- he has more than 2,100 yards from scrimmage and 28 touchdowns this season. Ajayi really sees the holes well, then explodes through them to the second level.) (12-5-14): http://www.si.com/nfl/2014/12/05/nfl-draft-prospect-watch-landon-collins-jake-fisher
Ajayi generating buzz (Most of the national attention on the running back position has been directed towards Melvin Gordon, Telvin Coleman and James Conner for their spectacular efforts, but Ajayi is beginning to generate some buzz on the West Coast with his sensational production as the Broncos' workhorse runner. The junior standout has notched seven straight games with 100-plus rushing yards, including a 229-yard effort against Utah State that clinched the team's berth in the Mountain West Championship Game. The "J-Train" has been a monster running between the tackles for the Broncos, exhibiting outstanding vision, pitter-pat and toughness. With Ajayi also displaying home-run speed and acceleration, scouts should pay close attention to the burgeoning superstar who is running rampant in the Mountain West.) (12-1-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000437358/article/scouts-take-boise-states-jay-ajayi-generating-buzz
Ajayi leads Boise State football team to blowout of Utah State (11-29-14): http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/11/29/3515432/live-coverage-boise-state-utah.html
Ajayi carries Boise State past Nevada, 51-46 (10-6-14): http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/11/29/3515432/live-coverage-boise-state-utah.html
Ajayi's fumbles and other Boise State Notes (10-3-14): http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/10/03/3408015/ajayis-fumbles-bells-captaincy.html
Week 2 scouting report (If you don't know the name, make sure you learn it because Ajayi (pronounced uh-JYE-ee) has exciting skills at the running back position that translate well to the NFL. Watching tape of him over the summer, it became evident quickly that he was the real deal and so far through two games in 2014, he has appeared to get even better. This past Saturday vs. Colorado State, he was the best player on the field as he finished with 33 carries for 219 yards (6.6 average) and two touchdowns, helping lead Boise State to its first victory on the season. Ajayi has electric feet to make athletic lateral cuts and escape trouble easily, bouncing runs outside and finding space to be effective. He doesn't have the physical build to consistently pound the rock inside, but he is still effective between the tackles, mostly due to his patience to allow blocks to develop and work through the chaos. Ajayi has springs in his legs with outstanding balance to pick up yards after initial contact, displaying natural burst to turn on the jets and change his gears well at the second level. So far through two games in 2014, he is averaging 35 touches per game, mostly due to the fact that he is the engine that makes the Broncos' offense go, but it's hard to imagine he lasts a full season with that high volume workload. Due to that punishment and proven punishment and talent, it's hard to imagine Ajayi sticking around for his senior season. He probably won't ascend into that top tier with other running back prospects like Todd Gurley, but Ajayi isn't far behind and could be great value somewhere in the top-80 picks.) (9-9-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24702638/nfl-draft-week-two-stock-report
Ajayi a man on a mission (8-26-14): http://www.idahostatesman.com/2014/08/26/3341645/man-on-a-mission.html
2015 NFL Draft: Mountain West Preview (The Boise State program has produced two running backs drafted in the top-40 picks, most recently Doug Martin 31st overall in 2012. And rising redshirt junior Jay Ajayi is hoping to add his name to that list. The top returning rusher in the conference, Ajayi put his name on the NFL radar with 1,425 rushing yards and 18 rushing scores last season, averaging 5.7 yards per carry. He has quick feet and controls his acceleration well with the explosive qualities needed for the next level. Ajayi has a limber, flexible body type with rubber joints and nimble lateral moves to juke, flashing the balance to makes defenders miss or brush off contact. He plays fast, but sometimes too fast and will run into his own blockers and needs to improve his ability in pass protection. But above all, Ajayi needs to eliminate the fumbles and improve his ball security to be viewed as a viable early round pick. Based on tape study, it wouldn't surprise me if he earns second and third round grades from NFL scouts.) (7-14-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24620491/nfl-draft-mountain-west-preview
RB Javorius Allen:
Scouting Reports:
USC Profile Page: http://www.usctrojans.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/javorius_allen_756278.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/javorius-allen?id=2552631
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1851113/javorius-allen
Articles:
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (9. Javorius "Buck" Allen, USC: Allen doesn’t have the gaudy numbers of some of the other top backs, but he fits what most NFL teams look for at the position. At 6-foot, 221-pounds, he can run with power and burst, and he had 41 catches for 458 yards in 2014. He had some drops and needs to improve his vision, but he could slip into Round 3 or go early Day 3.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
Greg Cosell's NFL draft preview: Examining the top RBs in a great class (Javorius “Buck” Allen, USC: Allen is not a naturally powerful runner for a 221-pound back. He is a little stiff and a little too upright. Too many times he slowed his feet and prepared for contact, and you can’t run like that in the NFL. However, there’s a lot to like about Allen with his desirable combination of size and running ability. Those who like him will see similarities to Matt Forte. I wavered on him, but there were times I saw that. He strikes me as a runner that could be very effective behind a quality offensive line.) (4-12-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--examining-the-top-running-backs-in-a-great-class-184532748.html
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (10/90. *Javorius Allen, Southern Cal, 6-0, 221, 4.50, 3: --The Buck stops here: A dedicated weight-room fanatic, "Buck" Allen is probably a work-in-progress, but we will list him here because he has toughness that may work at the next level. After a redshirt season and a freshman year with only six carries, Allen was still riding the bench at the beginning of his sophomore season. After battling his way up the depth chart, Allen started four games in 2013 and in 2014 was the only player in the nation with 12 games of 100-plus yards from scrimmage (rushing and receiving). Overall, Allen appeared in 30 games, with 17 starts and rushed 416 times for 2,295 yards (5.52-yard average) with 25 touchdowns. Allen caught 63 passes for 710 yards (11.27-yard average) and two touchdowns. --Measuring up: At 6-feet-1/2 inch tall and 221 pounds, Allen ran 40 yards at the combine in 4.53 seconds (10 in 1.58). His explosion was good in the vertical jump (35.5 inches) and broad jump (10-feet-1-inch), but for a guy who is known as a weight-room junkie, 11 reps on the bench with 225 pounds is very disappointing. --Notable quote: "I'm very unique. I have great hands, and I can be a workhorse for a team. You're going to have to drag me off the field because I love the game of football." -- Allen at combine, when asked what he wanted teams to know about him. --Frankly: As a running back prospect, Allen is a jack of all traits and the master of none, which may be credentials for some team looking for somebody to control the clock at the end of a game or help play defense on offense, ala journeyman NFL back LeGarrette Blount (with no aspersions to PED use here), minus about 25 pounds.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
2015 NFL Draft: This Week In Pro Days (One of my favorite players in this class is the Trojans’ Buck Allen. The running back stood on his numbers from the combine, and answered scouts questions by running extra routes to show he can be an every down running back.) (3-13-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-this-week-in-pro-days.html
Tavai ups draft stock, Williams off the charts at USC's pro day (Running back Javorius "Buck" Allen (6-0 1/2, 219) and wide receiver Nelson Agholor (6-0, 194) did a positional workout together that was scripted. Allen showed that he has a lot of desirable skills from a running back, catching the ball well out of the backfield.) (3-12-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000478572/article/uscs-williams-impressive-tavai-boosts-draft-stock-at-pro-day
USC pro day: Williams says he has workout scheduled with only one team (Tailback Javorius "Buck" Allen opted to stand on his combine numbers, but did participate in position-specific drills. He was asked by a number of scouts to run extra routes after the day's script was over, something he was happy to do. He noted that his first private workout will be on Friday with the Carolina Panthers.) (3-11-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000478340/article/leonard-williams-stars-with-titans-on-hand-for-usc-pro-day
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Ajayi's fumble rate is once in every 80.0 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
Lions Combine Gleanings (USC’s Buck Allen is a player I know the Lions have scouted intently. He also impressed with a 1.58 10-yard split at 221 pounds. An added plus in his column is that he was part of a backfield-by-committee and had just 416 carries in the last three years. That’s 200 fewer than guys like Jeremy Langford or David Cobb, other 4th or 5th round candidates. Personally I prefer Cobb of that trio.) (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/02/lions-combine-gleanings/
2015 Combine: Day 4 (Southern California’s Buck Allen showed a nice burst with 10 yard split times of 1.61 and 1.58 to go with his 4.55 and 4.53 40 times.) (2-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-4-news-notes.html
RBs 2015 Combine Field Drill Recaps (USC running back Buck Allen (6-0, 221) did terribly in the bench press with 11 reps, tied for dead last among running backs. However, he bounced back in the field drills. He had a quality 40 time of 4.53 seconds for a back his size. He also did well in the field drills. Allen needed that after his Friday performance.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutRB.php
RBs 2015 Combine Bench Press Analysis (USC running back Buck Allen tied for the worst performance on the bench press. He had only 11 reps. At 6-foot, 221 pounds, he should have more and it makes one question how dedicated Allen was to the weight room.
) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchRB.php
Allen, Agholor will test their skills at the Combine (Allen has the skillset of an every down back -- he can also block and catch out of the backfield. Mayock says the USC tailback can go in the fourth or fifth round but could hear his name earlier "because he's so big and strong." The draft analyst calls him a "big kid" and a "downhill" runner. Allen, who weighed in at 6-feet and 221 pounds in Indy this week, totaled 1,489 yards on the ground and averaged 11.2 yards per catch in 2014. ) (2-20-15): http://www.foxsports.com/west/story/buck-allen-nelson-agholor-forner-usc-trojans-will-test-skills-at-nfl-combine-022015
After slow start, Allen could be late gem in NFL draft (2-20-15): http://jacksonville.com/sports/football/jaguars/2015-02-20/story/after-slow-start-trojans-rb-could-be-late-gem-nfl-draft
2015 NFL Combine Weigh-In Analysis: RBs (USC running back Buck Allen (6-0, 221) is another back who had a big 2014 season, but is having a hard time standing out in a talented running back class. Allen is put together well, and he needs a fast 40 time to get more teams to take notice of him.) (1-19-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015weighinRB.php
2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Offense (He quietly piled up 1,489 yards this season and added 41 receptions in USC's pro-style offense. Most see him as an early third-day pick. NFL Media analyst Lance Zierlein touts his "ability to cut on a dime," and Allen will be hoping to impress in the drills at the combine. In doing so, he could move into the second-day discussion.) (2-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470692/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-players-to-watch-offense
Allen projected as mid round pick (2-16-15): http://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/uscnow/la-sp-usc-javorius-buck-allen-nfl-draft-20150216-story.html
What we're hearing about top prospects (The scoop: "Right off the bat, his draft value has a ceiling because he's a slot receiver. At least that is how I see it. I don't think he has the speed to get open outside. He's a good value in the middle rounds, though, because of his return-game potential." -- NFC South scout on USC WR Nelson Agholor. The skinny: Agholor is an intelligent, instinctive receiver with an advanced feel for getting himself open against zone coverage, but he lacks a speed component to force cornerbacks to respect him over the top and might not be physical enough to play outside. Those weaknesses combined with his lean frame (6-foot-1, 190 pounds) mean his best position could be working from the slot as a reliable possession receiver. He's also a dangerous punt returner who can step right into that job on Day 1. That's a valuable player, but one this NFC scout believes will be a mid-round draft pick.) (2-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000469399/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-draft-prospects
Agholor prepares for the NFL (1-28-15): http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/27964986/agholor-prepares-for-the-nfl
Top 2014 performances: Nelson Agholor (1-27-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/83825/top-2014-performances-nelson-agholor
USC beats Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl (Javorius Allen rushed for 152 yards and two scores for the Trojans.) (12-27-14): http://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/uscnow/la-sp-usc-nebraska-holiday-bowl-updates-20141227-story.html
Allen wants strong finish to regular season (11-27-14): http://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/la-sp-usc-football-20141128-story.html
NFL scouts share notes on USC and UCLA draft prospects (JAVORIUS "Buck" ALLEN, USC running back — Allen, a junior, had a streak of six consecutive 100-yard games this season, the first USC player to accomplish that since Marcus Allen (no relation) when he won the Heisman Trophy in 1981. Scout 1: He's a well-rounded back. He can be your starting running back, catches the ball well out of the backfield, decent in pass protection. He's really good in the open field as a runner, whether it's at the second level running the ball or just out in space catching it. The one thing we wanted to see this year with him coming back is to see him finish runs. He's done that. Potentially he'll go in the second or third round. Scout 3: He doesn't have breakaway speed, not overly elusive. But he's a good, tough, downhill runner. I wouldn't say he's going to be an upper-echelon guy but he could be a No. 1 back for a team. More of a singles and doubles hitter than a home-run guy.) (11-20-14): http://www.latimes.com/sports/football/nfl/la-sp-usc-ucla-nfl-prospects-20141121-story.html#page=1
Allen's 100 yd rushing streak ends against Cal (Allen rushed for 114 yards in 19 carries against Washington State on Nov. 1 to become the first USC player since Marcus Allen to rush for more than 100 yards in six consecutive games.) (11-13-14): http://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/la-sp-usc-football-20141114-story.html
Allen is making history at Tailback U (11-10-14): http://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/uscs-buck-allen-is-making-history-at-tailback-u-111014
Agholor catches 3 TDs in route of Colorado (Tailback Javorius Allen rushed for 128 yards and a touchdown, the sixth time in seven games he has eclipsed 100 yards. Allen scored on a 39-yard run late in the third quarter to give USC a 56-21 lead. Allen was coming off a career-best 205-yard rushing effort against Arizona. The junior from Florida has rushed for 909 yards and eight touchdowns.) (10-18-14): http://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/la-sp-usc-notes-20141019-story.html
Allen is compared to Bishop Sankey (10-16-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000411744/article/uscs-javorius-allen-is-compared-to-titans-bishop-sankey
Allen is coming on strong for USC (10-16-14): http://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/la-sp-usc-buck-allen-20141017-story.html
Five RB prospects to keep an eye on (Allen rescued USC's season last year when he became the featured runner, and he's been the No. 1 guy from the get-go this season. He's playing the Bishop Sankey role in Steve Sarkisian's offense, and his production has been impressive all season -- it was especially so Saturday (26 carries for 208 yards and three TDs) as he keyed a road win over then-No. 10 Arizona.) (10-14-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000410978/article/todd-gurley-puts-nfl-drafts-firstround-rb-drought-in-jeopardy
Trojans hold off wildcats 28-26 (Javorius Allen ran for 205 yards and three touchdowns, and USC escaped with a 28-26 victory over No. 10 Arizona on Saturday night when Casey Skowron pushed a last-second 36-yard field goal wide right.) (10-12-14): http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/gametracker/recap/NCAAF_20141011_USC@ARIZ/trojans-hold-off-no-10-wildcats-28-26
Get to know Javorius "Buck" Allen (10-8-14): https://news.usc.edu/69442/get-to-know-star-tailback-javorius-buck-allen/
Draft Stock Week 3 (Allen didn't have a big game on the ground against Boston College, but he gave NFL evaluators a tape to get excited about with his receiving ability. Allen hauled in nine receptions for 118 yards with a touchdown. He had a long catch of 51 yards. On the ground, Allen was held to 31 yards on 15 carries, but his ability to contribute to the passing game helps him stand out among a talented group of draft-eligible running backs. The 6-foot-1, 220-pound Allen has been a physical load this year and a consistent producer for the USC offense. Through three games, he has 318 rush yards with an average of 5.3 yards per carry with a touchdown. As a receiver, Allen has 10 receptions for 141 yards and a touchdown. The junior from Tallahassee, Florida is making the case to be a second-day pick and warrant consideration as a three-down starter.) (9-15-15): http://walterfootball.com/draft2015stock_03.php
Allen will not let shoulder bruise slow him down (8-15-14): http://www.latimes.com/sports/usc/uscnow/la-sp-sn-usc-football-javorius-allen-will-not-let-shoulder-bruise-slow-him-down-20140815-story.html
2015 NFL Draft: USC Preview ("Buck" Allen entered the 2013 season with just six carries to his credit but emerged as Southern Cal's most dependable back as the year went on, eclipsing the 100 yard mark four times and scoring a total of 12 touchdowns in their final six games. Allen has a high-cut frame and a gliding, deceptively powerful running style and offers help in the passing game as both a receiver and blocker.) (6-25-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24597322/nfl-draft-usc-preview
RB Malcolm Brown:
Scouting Reports:
Texas profile page: http://texassports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5116
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/malcolm-brown?id=2552382
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1852916/malcolm-brown
Articles:
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (Malcolm Brown, Texas (5-11, 224): He would be a low round selection if the team is looking for a fill-in third back replacement in the sixth or seventh round. He's more of a power back -- hence his size -- but only had three games in his career where he had a run of 30 yards or longer. He's not going to be a game-changer and he isn't a dynamic pass catcher. He's the No. 17 back and No. 199 player in the draft.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
Brown has intense workout, Hicks boosts draft stock at Texas' pro day (Running back Malcolm Brown (5-11 1/2, 219) ran the 40-yard dash in 4.52 and 4.5 seconds, and then stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine, where he was a top performer in his position group in the three-cone drill and 60-yard shuttle. Brown had a really good pro day positional workout. He went through his workout with the wide receivers and caught the ball well coming out of the backfield, leaving everybody pleased with his performance.) (3-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481301/article/malcom-brown-of-texas-put-through-intense-pro-day-workout
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Brown's fumble rate is the best. His fumble rate is once in every 619.0 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
Big Ten RBs turn on the jets for 40s (Brown ran a 4.67 and a 4.62.) (2-21-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-02-21/nfl-combine-2015-running-backs-40-times-melvin-gordon-duke-johnson-ameer-abdullah-todd-gurley-draft-first-round
Five Texas players invited to Combine (RB Malcolm Brown: Finished his career ranked ninth on the school’s all-time rushing list with 2,678 yards. He had 11 career 100-yard rushing games. (2-15-14): http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-texas/article10375517.html
How Big 12's top recruits in 2011 panned out (Brown had a hard time playing up to his five-star hype, but he gave Texas four solid seasons while sharing carries throughout. He rushed for 2,678 yards and 24 touchdowns in 44 games and twice earned second-team All-Big 12 honors. His best stretch came in the second half of 2013 (five 100-plus yard games), but O-line woes slowed Brown down as a senior and he never produced a 1,000-yard season.) (2-2-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/big12/post/_/id/95651/how-big-12s-top-recruits-in-2011-panned-out
Shrine Review (RB Malcolm Brown, Texas - Running backs rarely shine at all star events due to practice rules. It is difficult to see their ability to break first contact, which I viewed as Brown’s strength along with vision and decisiveness behind slanting or zone blocking lines.) (1-15-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51648/351/norris-e-w-shrine-review
2015 Shrine Game: Day Two West Practice Notes (Malcolm Brown of Texas also had a solid day for the group. At six feet and 230 lbs, Brown shows a nice amount of quickness and cutting ability. He also brings a workmanlike attitude and a certain amount of consistency to his work in practice. Overall this position should be a source of strength during the game Saturday.) (1-14-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-shrine-game-day-two-west-practice-notes.html
2015 Shrine Game: Day One West Practice Notes (Texas ball carrier Malcolm Brown looked a little slow trying to reach the edge of the field, however he showed good vision and cutting ability.) (1-12-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-shrine-game-day-one-west-practice-notes.html
2015 East-West Shrine Game: Top 15 NFL prospects to watch (One of the best one-cut power runners in the 2015 NFL Draft, Brown has phenomenal plant and cut speed, along with balance once he picks up speed. With ideal size and built, he does a great job of finishing broken tackles and adjusting his upper half to take on more tacklers. He lacks great initial speed, and struggles to adjust laterally after the first cut, but his explosive cut upfield and size give him the tools to emerge as the Shrine’s best runner.) (1-12-15) : http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-01-12/2015-shrine-game-nfl-prospects-mock-draft-tyeler-davison-kasen-williams-malcolm-brown
Rotoworld's Shrine Preview (Texas Longhorn Malcolm Brown was a highly coveted high school recruit. He then made an immediate impact in 2011. Perhaps the situation around him impacted the results, but Brown still has plenty of talent. When asked to make zone cuts, Brown was able to work frontside to backside with little wasted movement. He picked up yards blocked for him by finding lanes. Brown was able to be first contact with low pad level, aggression and leg drive. This means he created yards for himself, behind and beyond the line of scrimmage. That is the combination evaluators look for.) (1-11-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51538/351/2015-east-west-shrine-preview
Texas senior RB Malcolm Brown rushed for 72 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 19 carries in Texas' 45-42 escape against Iowa State on Saturday. (Brown hasn't yet exceeded 100 yards in a game during this long, disappointing season. He's rushed for 396 yards and four touchdowns on 103 carries, a 3.8 YPC average. CBS Sports' Dane Brugler wrote over the summer that Brown "runs physical" and "low to the ground." Brown had 904 yards and nine touchdowns on 214 attempts and hauled in 17 receptions for 195 yards and two TD last season, numbers he isn't likely to match as a senior.) (10-19-14): http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=130810&line=35594&spln=1
Futures: Malcolm Brown (10-19-14): http://www.footballoutsiders.com/futures/2014/futures-texas-rb-malcolm-brown
Brown out for West Virginia game with ankle injury (10-3-14): http://www.si.com/si-wire/2012/10/03/texas-malcolm-brown-out-ankle-injury
2015 NFL Draft: Texas Preview (Considered the Nation's top running back out of high school four years ago, Brown led the Longhorns in rushing yards last season (904), but he hasn't exactly lived up to the monumental hype. Nonetheless, his talent is obvious and was on display late last season when he finished the 2013 season strong with three straight 100-yard performances (128, 131, 130). Brown looks the part with NFL build, running square to the line of scrimmage with the body strength to shake off single defenders and play with lower pad level than most on the field. He doesn't have dynamic elusiveness, but shows effective plant-and-go quickness with excellent play speed, always looking to get north-south in a hurry. Brown follows his blocks well with good feel and vision to find openings and get to the second level. Although he doesn't have ideal power and explosive traits, Brown runs physical, low to the ground and always seems to be picking up positive yardage.) (6-10-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24584674/nfl-draft-texas-preview
Telvin Coleman:
Scouting Reports:
Indiana Profile Page: http://www.iuhoosiers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/tevin_coleman_808916.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/tevin-coleman?id=2552453
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/2001839/tevin-coleman
Detroit Lions 2015 NFL draft prospect: Indiana running back Tevin Coleman: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/03/detroit_lions_2015_nfl_draft_p_3.html
Bob Sturm's Telvin Coleman profile: cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/2015/02/2015-nfl-draft-profile-tevin-coleman-rb-indiana.html/
NFL Draft Preview 2015: RB Tevin Coleman: http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfl-draft-preview-2015-rb-tevin-coleman/
Articles:
Players being overrated in the lead-up to the draft (Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana: Before we get too far into this, allow me to just mention that I like Tevin Coleman as a player. A lot. On an Indiana team that has one bowl berth since 1994, Coleman stood out week to week with his big-play ability—he turned nothing into something as much as maybe any college running back. Those breakthroughs will be fewer and further between in the NFL. Coleman does not find his way into space so much as he plows through defenders, which is a tough way to make a pro living. This RB class is a crap shoot, and a run realistically could start at the position anywhere from early Round 2 onward. Coleman deserves to be mentioned among the second-tier group, after Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley. There just might not be as much potential here as his 2,036 yards last season indicate.) (4-29-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/29/2015-nfl-draft-overrated-prospects-breshad-perriman-arik-armstead
Second round preview: Detroit Lions could add speed to offense in NFL draft (The Lions already have expressed their interest in Coleman, hosting him on one of their 30 pre-draft visits. He is a one-step-and-burn kind of guy, capable of accelerating to top speed in a flash. He hits the hole with as much speed as any back in this draft. As McShay points out, Coleman led the nation in 30-, 40-, 50- and 60-yard runs, and tied for the lead at 70, 80 and 90 yards. He averaged 169.7 rushing yards per game, which was more than 70 teams, and a preposterous 7.54 yards per attempt. His average TD distance was 40.3 yards. Coleman also returned kicks at Indiana and could offer some possibilities on special teams. "I don't think Coleman is a complete back, as he doesn't have ideal power and balance and he's a little bit high-cut," McShay said. "But he's an elite breakaway threat that a team would do well to draft later on Day 2." Detroit, which returns Bell as its No. 1 tailback, doesn't necessarily need a three-down tailback. It just needs someone who is a threat to take it the distance. Coleman could be that guy.) (4-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_could_add_speed.html
Winston, Gregory are among biggest boom-or-bust 2015 draft prospects (Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana: Coleman's blazing open-field speed allowed him to punish Big Ten defenders, finishing with 2,036 yards rushing at 7.5 yards per carry. In the NFL, running backs are either creators or tackle breakers, and according to STATS data Coleman was neither. Coleman broke a tackle or made someone miss on just 12.2 percent of his carries. Melvin Gordon, Jay Ajayi and Todd Gurley all finished at just over 21 percent, while Duke Johnson clocked in at 19 percent. If Coleman gets in the right scheme, he has a chance to become an electric ball carrier with home-run potential on any given carry. However, if he doesn't show more wiggle or physicality through contact, scheme won't matter.) (4-27-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488295/article/2015-nfl-drafts-biggest-boomorbust-prospects
The Lions sent RBs coach Curtis Modkins to Indiana RB Tevin Coleman's personal Pro Day on April 15 (4-25-15): https://twitter.com/davebirkett/status/592318823522377729
Pat Caputo - Ideally, this is what the 2015 NFL Draft will look like for Detroit Lions (As for running back, it would not surprise me if Indiana's Tevin Coleman is a better NFL player than Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon. Coleman is an extraordinarily hard runner with home run speed. What he did at Indiana rushing for 2,000 yards was incredible given how generally overwhelmed the Hoosiers are against most of their competition, and that they were playing quarterbacks far down the depth chart much of the season because of injury.) (4-22-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com//sports/20150422/pat-caputo-ideally-this-is-what-the-2015-nfl-draft-will-look-like-for-detroit-lions
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (4. Tevin Coleman, Indiana: If speed is the desire, Coleman could be a top target. The 5-foot-11, 206-pound prospect ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at his pro day, and he’s a flat-out burner on tape. He also has experience returning kickoffs. As much of a threat as Coleman is, he doesn’t do much to dodge or break tacklers, and he isn’t as proven as a receiver.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
Indiana's Coleman posts impressive 40 time (4-15-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485586/article/tevin-coleman-of-indiana-runs-439-40-at-his-pro-day
Possible Lions draft targets 3.0 (Indiana RB Tevin Coleman is another home-run guy, like Todd Gurley is, but there is concern about whether his violent running style can lead to an extended NFL career, according to NFL.com's draft site. He's a game-changer, though.) (4-14-15): http://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/14/possible-lions-draft-targets-30/25766415/
Greg Cosell's NFL draft preview: Examining the top RBs in a great class (Tevin Coleman, Indiana: Overall Coleman has the look of an NFL runner with his size, run strength and deceptive agility and burst, but he may not have the complete running skills and the needed size to be a foundation back in the NFL. He is a good-sized back with a downhill slashing style, good pad level and toughness, but he’s not a strong and powerful runner. Coleman has good combination of size and movement but no special qualities as a runner in patience, vision and elusiveness. Can Coleman effectively and consistently work in the confined space that NFL backs must control?) (4-12-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--examining-the-top-running-backs-in-a-great-class-184532748.html
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (Tevin Coleman, Indiana (5-11, 206): He's a tough runner with speed, but there are injury concerns for the No. 5 running back and No. 59 overall player in the draft. He had almost as many runs of 10 yards or more last season (47) as he did negative or zero-gain rushes (51). He has good hands and is a smart player. The worry for the Lions -- and other teams -- will be his durability. Otherwise, he's a good back.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (6/62. *Tevin Coleman, Indiana, 5-11, 206, 4.59, 2: --The Rock: Coleman displayed athleticism to spare at Oak Forest High School where he spread the wealth as a dynamic running back, wide receiver, cornerback, kickoff and punt returner and was a champion long-jumper (23-feet-0.25 inches). Not bad for a kid born three months early and given only a 20 percent chance to live. Coleman is a rare combination of wild athletic ability and religious leader who is so solidly grounded his nickname is Rock. As a junior at Indiana last year, Coleman became the 18th player in FBS history to reach 2,000 rushing yards in a single season (2,036) and his 7.5 average per carry is the fifth-highest among those 18 2k rushers. Except for lacking impressive power and a problem with fumbling, Coleman is exceptional at all tasks required of a running back. Dane Brugler of NFLDraftScout.com compares Coleman to former Dallas Cowboys star DeMarco Murray in terms of body type, running style, toughness and home-run ability.
--Measuring up: Actually his height is 5-feet-11 3/8th inches, and at 206 pounds he looks lean. Small hands (8-5/8th inches) may explain fumble problems. Toe injury prevented full combine workout, but Coleman did bench 225 pounds 22 times. He scheduled his own pro day for April 15, which should be easy to remember for everybody procrastinating on their taxes. --Notable quote: "It was my toe. He took a sesamoid bone out and attached a tendon to the other bone. It happened in the fifth game of the season. I played through it, had surgery after the season. It was definitely painful." -- Coleman at the combine, when asked about his injury. --Frankly: Some scouts feel that he may be one of the best three-down backs in the draft because he can block and catch as well as run. But, although he was prolific -- reaching the 2,000-yard rushing mark in only 264 carries -- Coleman's running style is not smooth and he bloated his stats against weaker teams.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (8. Tevin Coleman, Indiana: A 2,000-yard rusher himself last season, Coleman might be the prime example of how difficult it is to predict how far this group will fall after Gurley and Gordon. As early as, say, the second round, a team could fall in love with Coleman's physical style and penchant for turning short gains into game-changing plays. The league also might decide Coleman doesn't have the NFL-caliber instincts several other backs feature, leaving the Indiana product available on the draft's third day. Ask five different people for their expectations of Coleman's rookie season and it's quite possible you'll get five very different answers. Projection: Early fourth round) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
Cowboys will host five of 2015 draft's best running backs for visits (the 5 RBs are Gurley, Gordon, Coleman, Ajayi and Abdullah) (3-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481528/article/todd-gurley-among-five-running-backs-to-visit-dallas-cowboys
Zierlein's top 10 RB prospects (3. Tevin Coleman, Indiana - Zierlein's bottom line: His violent running style is a joy to watch, but might have to be tempered to extend his career. He is a "race car in the red" on just about every snap and refuses to give in, which leads to many big runs. Zone, gap, power ... it doesn't really matter because Coleman can fit all schemes. Has the burst and top-end speed to be a game-changing running back for a team looking for a workhorse.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479538/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-running-backs
Film review: How IU's Tevin Coleman could boost Lions (3-16-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/03/16/detroit-lions-indiana-tevin-coleman/24853963/
Indiana RB Tevin Coleman visits Detroit Lions (scouting report - "Strengths: Doak Walker Award winner Melvin Gordon played for a better Big Ten team, but Coleman often showed just as much or more explosiveness, particularly in the open field. He recorded four 200-yard rushing performances, three against Big Ten opponents, and had a career-high 307 rush yards against Rutgers. Coleman is a big-play machine and shows both power and elusiveness between the tackles. He ran behind an underrated Hoosiers line but produced at an extremely high level despite playing alongside a freshman quarterback Zander Diamont who no one expected to play going into the season. His yards-per-carry average (7.5) obviously jumps also, but he also rarely lost yardage (just 26 yards for the season). "Weaknesses: The only potential knock on Coleman is durability at the NFL level. He has good size but doesn't fit the power-back mold. He missed the final three games in 2013 with an ankle injury. Toughness isn't a question, though, as Coleman played the second half of the season with a broken toe."): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/15643/indiana-rb-tevin-coleman-visits-the-detroit-lions
Lions host Coleman for a pre-draft visit (3-5-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Lions-host-big-play-RB-Tevin-Coleman/95ed3e31-182f-4cbc-a326-af06e775be32
Video - Pre-Draft Visit: Telvin Coleman (3-5-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Pre-draft-visit-RB-Tevin-Coleman/1eccd154-578c-48bb-bc03-3e071d4ddd99
Make-or-break pro days ahead for many prospects (Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana (April 15): The man played through a foot injury that required surgery and still needed only 264 carries to reach 2,000 yards last season (he finished with 2,036 on 270 carries). That surgery kept him out of the combine, and he’ll do an individual pro day on April 15, two weeks after Indiana’s team workouts on March 30. Coleman is most effective as an outside runner with a lot of burst in and out of cuts. Can he replicate that explosiveness post-surgery and solidify himself as a second rounder? Phil’s take: “There are a lot of blanks to be filled in. Very few people have seen him live. He’s got a good reputation and was productive on an average team when everyone on defense was concentrating on him.”) (3-5-15): http://mmqb.si.com/2015/03/05/nfl-draft-clemson-pro-day/
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Coleman's fumble rate is once in every 72.3 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
The NFL Draft's 5 best RBs (1. Tevin Coleman – Indiana: I know the majority of you will have Melvin Gordon in this slot. I have Gordon as my number two. My thinking is that if Coleman played behind the Wisconsin line he may have run for over 2500 yards. As it was, he ran for 2036 yards, a 7.5 average per carry, 15 touchdowns and 25 receptions. Coleman has a complete game. He can run with power between the tackles, is creative, and consistently gets yards after contact. He has the speed to turn the corner and is elusive in the open field. As a receiver, he is very reliable, runs good routes and has very good hands. Add to that the fact that he can already pass protect and is a dangerous kickoff returner. Coleman did not workout at the Combine, but when he does, he can solidify his status as the draft’s top running back.) (3-3-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/the-nfl-drafts-5-best-running-backs/
2015 NFL Draft Prospects facing pivotal pro days (Todd Gurley and Melvin Gordon seem certain to be the first running backs off the board, but who will be the third guy? No one truly staked claim to that designation at the combine. Coleman is in the mix, along with Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah, Boise State's Jay Ajayi, Miami's Duke Johnson, Alabama's T.J. Yeldon and maybe Northern Iowa's David Johnson. Coleman's 40 time will be interesting. None of the aforementioned guys broke 4.5, and Abdullah was at 4.6 and Yeldon at 4.61.) (2-26-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000474163/article/2015-nfl-draft-prospects-facing-pivotal-pro-days
Are Colts a perfect fit for Coleman (2-20-15): http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2015/02/20/tevin-coleman-nfl-scouting-combine-indiana-iu-running-back/23741899/
Coleman
won't workout at Combine (Coleman, who also suffered an
ankle injury that cost him the final three games last year, apparently
suffered the foot injury this past season. DraftInsider.net's Tony
Pauline reported last month that Coleman had surgery to correct the
injury in December. A 6-foot-1, 210-pounder, Coleman turned heads
during his final
collegiate season by rushing for 2,036 yards and 15 touchdowns despite a
sub-par offensive line and the team having to turn to a walk-on at
quarterback. NFL Media analyst Mike Mayock recently compared Coleman to
former Raiders first-round pick Darren McFadden
because of his burst and scoring ability, but it's unknown how the
injury could hamper Coleman's draft stock going forward. Mayock
considers Coleman to be the fifth-best back in the 2015 NFL Draft
heading into the Combine.
"He is a home-run hitter, he is a pile-mover, he's effective out
of the backfield and he has a terrific nose for the end zone," NFL Media
analyst Lance Zierlein added.
"He shows no hesitation between the tackles and has a great feel for
where the running lanes are in tight quarters. He turns missed or broken
tackles into long touchdowns, and he's the type of runner who can
instantly change direction without having to gear down. His running
style reminds me of DeMarco Murray's." Coleman was expected to go as early as the second round of the
draft, but the injury concerns -- particularly his second lower leg
injury in as many years -- could cause him to fall behind others on many
teams' draft boards.) (2-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470804/article/tevin-coleman-wont-work-out-at-nfl-scouting-combineMayock compares Coleman to McFadden (2-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470752/article/mayock-rgiii-trade-impacts-2015-nfl-drafts-top-quarterbacks
2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Six RBs under scrutiny (Tevin Coleman, Indiana: He was overshadowed in his own league by Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon, but Coleman had a phenomenal year, especially considering Indiana didn't have a legitimate passing attack in the second half of the season. Coleman rushed for 2,036 yards and was a big-play machine, and he certainly is in the running to be the third back selected. He has a background in a pass-oriented offense; the Hoosiers threw a lot in 2013 and in the first half of the '14 season. Comparing his 40 time to the other backs will be fun, especially considering Coleman is 6-1 and 210 pounds.) (2-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000469375/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-six-running-backs-under-scrutiny
Most fascinating pro comps for prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Tevin Coleman, RB, Indiana - The NFL comp: Darren McFadden. The skinny: They're both upright runners with home-run speed. They can both catch it out of the backfield and make you pay. Neither has great wiggle -- they don't make you miss very often.) (2-4-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000468159/article/most-fascinating-pro-comps-for-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
Coleman bolting Indiana for draft (12-29-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24921571/nfl-draft-rb-tevin-coleman-bolting-indiana-for-nfl
Heisman watch: How does Coleman stack up? (12-5-14): http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2014/12/04/heisman-trophy-watch-iu-indiana-tevin-coleman/19884485/
Coleman surpasses the 2000 yd mark (11-29-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000435880/article/indianas-tevin-coleman-surpasses-2000yard-mark
Inside Read (NFL scouts expect Saturday to be Indiana running back Tevin Coleman’s final collegiate game. The 6-1, 210-pound junior has quietly had a phenomenal season (1,906 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 241 carries) for a 3-8 team that is in the midst of a six-game losing streak. His latest gem was his 228 rushing yards and three touchdowns, one of which was a 90-yarder, in last Saturday’s 42-27 loss at Ohio State. Coleman has been held under 100 yards once this season despite being the focal point of opposing defenses. “You don’t reel off that many long runs behind a suspect offensive line like that and have the production he has,” a scout told The Inside Read. “He should be in the Heisman conversation. He doesn’t have a lot around him.” The scout believes Coleman has a shot to work his way into the late first round, but is likely an early second-round selection if he leaves for the NFL Draft after this season as expected. “The one thing with him though is is he going to be consistently able to give you the three-, four-, five-yard runs that sustain drives?” the scout said. “If he’s hitting this many long runs, there’s just not many guys like that in the league like the Chris Johnson when he first got in the league or the Reggie Bush or the LeSean McCoys. Those guys are all more elusive than him per se as far as make-miss ability, but this guy is good.”)(11-26-14): http://www.si.com/college-football/2014/11/26/frank-beamer-virginia-tech-amari-cooper-inside-read
2015 NFL Draft Stock Report (Ohio State limited Coleman to just 2.9 yards per rush in the first half on Saturday, but the Indiana running back exploded in the second half, finishing with 228 rushing yards and three touchdowns in Columbus. The match-up showed Coleman's strengths as a running back, using his combination of vision, power and long-striding acceleration to find room to operate. He often faced stacked boxes from the Buckeyes, but Coleman found room to work, lowering his pads and breaking half-hearted tackle attempts. Seeing the field very well, Coleman has the see-yah speed to break off long runs when he finds those holes, something he did several times against Ohio State, including a career-long 90-yard touchdown run in the third quarter (untouched). Coleman is now just 94 rushing yards shy of joining Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon in the 2,000-yard club on the season.) (11-25-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24839573/nfl-draft-stock-report-zack-hodges-tevin-coleman-moving-up
Two College football players to watch (Indiana RB Tevin Coleman: Of the nation's top backs, the guy who's largely unknown might well be putting up the best season of them all. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound junior has rushed for 1,678 yards and 12 touchdowns on just 214 carries through 10 games, and he has grabbed the attention of just about everyone in the college scouting community. This week gives him a chance to shine on the first piece of tape most evaluators will pop in. "This is a showcase game for him against a great defensive line and fast linebackers," an AFC college scouting director said. "Big-soled player, with solid size and good hands." And an AFC GM, still waiting to get a better look at the tape, added, "He's definitely got skills, burst and the body, but you wonder about his stamina at the next level to be a bell cow. ... It'd be interesting if he was running behind the Wisconsin offensive line." The agreed-upon NFL comp I got here was Darren McFadden -- Coleman's a bigger back with fantastic straight-line speed.) (11-21-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000431852/article/jay-gruden-offers-honest-assessment-of-robert-griffin-iiis-play
Scout's take (Stock up - RB Tevin Coleman, Indiana: Whenever a running back tops the 300-yard mark against major college competition, scouts take notice. Coleman continues to generate a ton of buzz in NFL circles after running roughshod over Rutgers to the tune of 302 yards on 32 carries in a 45-23 loss. Although Coleman's production didn't help the Hoosiers get a conference win, the fact that he churned out so much production against a variety of loaded boxes suggests that he has the stuff needed to be a feature back at the next level. With nine 100-yard games this season, including three in which he rushed for at least 200 yards, Coleman has the production to match his spectacular skills (vision, speed and agility) as one of the top runners in the college game.) (11-17-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000429903/article/scouts-take-can-melvin-gordon-outshine-past-wisconsin-rbs
Coleman defies odds (11-12-14): http://espn.go.com/blog/bigten/post/_/id/110824/indianas-coleman-keeps-defying-the-odds
Coleman draws McFadden comparison (11-6-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000423870/article/indianas-tevin-coleman-draws-darren-mcfadden-comparison
Coleman learns to take, dish out hits as nation's top rusher (10-30-14): http://www.si.com/college-football/2014/10/30/tevin-coleman-indiana-hoosiers
Coleman holds his own with Big Ten Backs (10-30-14): http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/ct-tevin-coleman-indiana-big-ten-running-backs-spt-20141030-column.html
Secret success: Why Coleman deserves your Heisman vote (10-29-14): http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/story/2014-10-29/indiana-hoosiers-tevin-coleman-heisman-trophy-contenders-big-ten-rushing-record
What we're hearing about top prospects (The scoop: "Tevin Coleman is quickly playing his way into second-round consideration with his ability not just to run but also catch the football." -- NFC scout. The skinny: This is the second mention of Coleman by an NFL scout this week. Coleman has an FBS-best 1,192 rushing yards (he's played one more game than Gordon) and has caught 17 passes for 140 yards. He's also improved his pass protection, which bodes well for him at the next level if he wants to be considered a three-down back. Even with the improvement in that area, he might be smart to return for his senior season given that Gurley and Gordon are likely to leave early and there's no guarantee he'd even go in the second round.) (10-23-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000415883/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-nfl-prospects
Week 8 Stock Report (Only one FBS rusher has eclipsed the 100-yard rushing mark in each game this season: Indiana junior RB Tevin Coleman. The Hoosier back leads college football in rushing yards (1,192) and rushing yards per carry (8.8), ranking second behind Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon in rush yards per game (170.3). Coleman put his name on the NFL radar last year, but he has surpassed expectations in 2014 with his production, including his ninth straight 100-yard rushing performance Saturday against Michigan State's physical defense. Indiana's offense has some creative play-calling, but even with defensive coordinators game-planning for Coleman, he is able to gash defenses with his vision to find holes, body control to get skinny and burst to accelerate downfield. He has worked his way into the top-75 discussion as a NFL prospect if he decides to declare early for the 2015 NFL Draft, projecting as a mix of Darren McFadden and DeMarco Murray.) (10-20-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24761269/nfl-draft-week-8-stock-report
NFP prospect focus: Tevin Coleman (10-16-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-tevin-coleman/
Five RB prospects to keep an eye on (Indiana's Tevin Coleman: Coleman is on pace for a huge season, as he leads the FBS with 1,060 rushing yards (14 more than Gordon). He's also made 15 catches for 134 yards, and his pass-catching ability enhances his stock even more.) (10-14-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000410978/article/todd-gurley-puts-nfl-drafts-firstround-rb-drought-in-jeopardy
Scouts taking notice of hyperproductive Coleman (10-8-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000407517/article/nfl-scouts-taking-notice-of-hyperproductive-tevin-coleman
Week 4 Risers and Sliders (Tevin Coleman/RB/Indiana: Most of the running back talk in the scouting community centers on four underclassmen: Todd Gurley, Melvin Gordon, T.J. Yeldon and Jay Ajayi. Coleman, the next in line, has his supporters and is building momentum. Despite playing with an injured knee Saturday, he posted 132-yards rushing on 19 carries during the Hoosiers upset win over Missouri. In three games this season Coleman has totaled 569-yards on 66 caries for an average of 8.6-yards per handoff, not bad for a ball carrier that tips the scale just under 210-pounds.) (9-22-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10031
Stock Report (RB Tevin Coleman, Indiana: There is always a place in the NFL for a big running back capable of being a three-down player. Thus, scouts are excited about the potential of Coleman after watching the Indiana star rack up 189 total yards from scrimmage on 22 touches (19 rushing attempts, three receptions) Saturday in the Hoosiers' 31-27 win over Missouri. Although Coleman's production certainly stood out during the performance, it was the toughness and grit displayed by the 6-foot-1, 212-pound junior that stood out to me. Coleman sat out most of the first half nursing an injury, but came back to carry the Hoosiers' offense with the game on the line. Given how much evaluators value a "complete" running back with a tough disposition, Coleman is a prospect to watch going forward.) (9-22-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000398939/article/stock-report-shane-carden-rises-devin-gardner-declines
Coleman runs for 132 yds, a TD as Indiana stuns Mizzou (9-20-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000397535/article/tevin-coleman-runs-for-132-yards-a-td-as-indiana-stuns-mizzou
Bucky's Best (Coleman vs Missouri's D-Line: The Hoosiers are attempting to shed their "basketball" school reputation by leaning on an explosive, fast-paced offense that's been lighting up scoreboards across the Big Ten. While the pace and tempo wears opponents down, it's the electric running skills of Coleman that makes the Hoosiers' offense a nightmare to defend. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound speedster is a blur on the perimeter with outstanding stop-start quickness and burst. He slithers through cracks at the point of attack and shows the ability to take it to the house, as evidenced by his ridiculous 9.3 yards-per-carry average.) (9-19-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000397097/article/buckys-best-top-cfb-matchups-to-watch-in-week-4
2015 NFL Draft: Indiana Preview (Tevin Coleman: Indiana's big play threat on offense, Coleman led the Hoosiers in rushing last season with 958 yards over nine games, averaging an impressive 7.3 yards per carry. He finished with 1,275 all-purpose yards and became the first Indiana player to average over 100 yards rushing per game since 2001. Coleman had a lot of all or nothing plays ono tape, with several stops at or near the line of scrimmage, but he also recorded 14 runs of at least 20 yards. He has a wiry body type and lacks ideal bulk for the position with height that makes it tough for him to run with consistent pad level. Coleman has good vision to read blocks and find holes and is at his best in the open field when he can get his momentum going. He doesn't display dynamic explosion in his cuts, but picks up steam as he goes with a second gear to finish runs downfield. Coleman missed the final three games of 2013 due to an ankle injury and needs to stay health moving forward to show scouts he has NFL durability.) (7-22-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24632719/nfl-draft-indiana-preview
Tevin Coleman suffered an ankle sprain against Illinois (11-22-13): http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/9960857/tevin-coleman-indiana-hoosiers-likely-ankle-sprain
RB John Crockett:
Scouting Reports:
ND State Profile Page: http://gobison.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4579
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/john-crockett?id=2552465
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=106499&draftyear=2015&genpos=RB
Articles:
Source: North Dakota State running back John Crockett has worked out for Vikings, Texans, Titans, Falcons, Jaguars (4-23-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/source-north-dakota-state-running-back-john-crockett-has-worked-out-for-vikings-texans-titans-falcons-jaguars/
NFP Prospect Focus: David Johnson and John Crockett (John Crockett – RB – North Dakota St.: In the last three seasons, Crockett has rushed for over 4300 yards including 1,994 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2014. In that same time frame, he has 43 receptions for 485 yards. At 6’1 – 217, Crockett has adequate size to go along with adequate speed. He ran 4.62 at the Combine where he also had a 40” vertical jump, a 10’5” standing long jump and 7.15 and 4.25 times in the agility drills. When a player runs an average 40 time at the Combine, you would hope that he would run again at his pro day. That was not the case with Crockett which tells us that 4.62 is about the best he can do. As a runner, Crockett is an instinctive jump cutter with a burst. He is best as a between the tackles pounder, but he also has a burst to get outside. He runs with good lean and power and is consistently able to get yards after contact. In the open field, he can make the first man miss, but I wouldn’t say he has top elusiveness. As a receiver, he has good hands and is able to get open on the shorter routes. He is willing as a blocker but will need technique work. I see Crockett as a tough, physical inside runner and a reliable receiver. He is similar in style of play to Cleveland’s Terrance West. Like most small school players, he will need a period of adjustment, but he can become a solid NFL rotational back.) (4-21-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-david-johnson-and-john-crockett/
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (John Crockett, North Dakota State (6-0, 217): He could be worth taking in the sixth or seventh round, provided the Lions have not gone with a running back yet. He has decent-to-good speed and athleticism, but he won't be a power back. He had 1,994 yards last season, but that was on 368 carries. Unlike Zenner, he didn't take quite as much of a load earlier in his career as he was primarily the No. 2 back. Could be a good No. 3 or No. 4 back for the Lions to have.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
Linebacker from four-time FCS national champs draws interest from NFL teams (Running back John Crockett (6-0, 217) also stood on his numbers from the combine, where he was among the top performers in his position group in the vertical jump and broad jump. Crockett is another well-coached prospect who had a good pro day workout. Crockett tries hard all the time (he is nicknamed "Taz" after the Tasmanian Devil due to his non-stop movement.) (3-30-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000482545/article/kyle-emanuel-of-north-dakota-state-drawing-interest-from-teams
2015 NFL Draft Journal: John Crockett, Rb, North Dakota State (3-25-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-journal-john-crockett-rb-north-dakota-state-325.html
Big Ten RBs turn on the jets for 40s (Crockett ran a 4.63 and a 4.62.) (2-21-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-02-21/nfl-combine-2015-running-backs-40-times-melvin-gordon-duke-johnson-ameer-abdullah-todd-gurley-draft-first-round
RBs 2015 Combine Bench Press Analysis (Two power backs who were impressive in the all-star games had somewhat disappointing totals. North Dakota State's John Crockett (6-0, 217) had 15, while Minnesota's David Cobb (5-11, 229) notched 17. It was surprising that they didn't produce more.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchRB.php
Norris: E-W Shrine Review (Crockett is ranked 22) (1-15-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51648/351/norris-e-w-shrine-review
2015 Shrine Game: Day 3 West Practice Notes (Crockett performed solidly in pass protection drills against blitzing linebackers, and was virtually uncoverable during one-on-one coverage drills with linebackers. The linebackers had no idea how to handle his speed, and everything they did ended in abject failure. Between his stamina, demeanor, size, build, strength, speed, explosiveness and pass catching potential, Crockett is one of the most draftable players at the Shrine game in 2015.) (1-14-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-shrine-game-day-three-west-practice-notes.html
2015 Shrine Game: Five prospects who created buzz among NFL scouts (Crockett was picked as one of the 10 other prospects that shined) (1-15-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/24965202/shrine-game-five-prospects-who-created-buzz-among-nfl-scouts
Shrine Game Practice: Wednesday West Notes (Crockett is a sturdy 215 pounds, he is a (cue the Beastie Boys song) “hold it, now HIT it” sort of runner with good vision and patience that make him seem faster than he actually is. He innately sets up blocks and leverages his breaks off them similar to the way Michael Turner used to run.) (1-14-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2585/Shrine-Game-Practice-Wednesday-West-Notes
10 Things I’ve Learned from Shrine Game Practices (Crockett is the life and mouthpiece of the practice party. His effervescent persona and relentless positivity is very well-received by everyone from teammates to NFL decision-makers standing on the sidelines. It helps that he’s performed well in drills. While not a speedster, he’s proven fast enough to get through the hole and make moves coming out the other side. I’ve been impressed with how he presses the edge and then breaks off the blocks. He was also solid in pass protection drills.) (1-14-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/01/10-things-ive-learned-from-shrine-game-practices/
2015 East-West Shrine Game Practice Report - West Team (One of the most impressive players from Wednesday's practice was North Dakota State running back John Crockett. He ran the ball well and showed off a burst to go with size. Crockett also was impressive in the blitz-pickup drill. Sources indicated that they like Crockett as a potential third-day pick. He has good size and showed a nice burst at the East-West Shrine. Crockett definitely helped himself.) (1-14-15): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2015practice6.php
2015 shrine game: day two west practice notes (Crockett continued to flash a combination of build, physicality and speed. He may be faster than some people believe. His enthusiasm was also a source of entertainment.) (1-13-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-shrine-game-day-two-west-practice-notes.html
2015 East-West Shrine Game: Tuesday's West Team Practice Report (Crockett also had a quality day. He ripped off a long reception after running open on a wheel route. Crockett then darted downfield and weaved his way through defenders before anyone got close enough to touch him. Crockett ran well in the team scrimmage. He looks like a tough gritty player who could be a value pick as a late-rounder.) (1-13-15): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2015practice4.php
Notes from Shrine Game Day 1 and 2 (John Crockett was a standout. He and Keith Mumphrey were by far the most vocal of all athletes and they had decent showcases as well) (1-13-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/01/notes-from-shrine-game-day-1-and-2/
Shrine Bowl Practices: Monday, Tuesday Notes (Crockett has good size and quick feet. His routes and hands looked great on Monday, as did his ability to cut on sloppy turf. He’s a very vocal guy and is well-liked by his teammates and the coaches appreciate his attitude as well.) (1-13-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2583/Shrine-Bowl-Practices-Monday-Tuesday-Notes
2015 Shrine Game: Day One West Practice Notes (He had a costly, but could still be declared a winner for the day) (1-12-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-shrine-game-day-one-west-practice-notes.html
Mayock: 5 linemen impressive in first Shrine Game practices (Crockett is talkative and talented) (1-12-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000457376/article/mayock-5-linemen-impressive-on-first-day-of-shrine-game-practice
2015 East-West Shrine Game: Top 15 NFL prospects to watch (Crockett has carried the load for the past two seasons for the Bisons) (1-12-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-01-12/2015-shrine-game-nfl-prospects-mock-draft-tyeler-davison-kasen-williams-malcolm-brown
2015 East West Shrine Preview (Crockett flashed second level speed to make the most of what was blocked. I do question his vision and open field skills in terms of making defenders miss. I think he left yards on the field in this area.) (1-11-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51538/351/2015-east-west-shrine-preview
Reusse: Inner voice keeps Crockett running for NDSU (12-19-14): http://www.startribune.com/sports/gophers/286306641.html
RB Melvin Gordon:
Scouting Reports:
Wisconsin: http://www.uwbadgers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/melvin_gordon_764894.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/melvin-gordon?id=2552469
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1871347/melvin-gordon
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2015mgordon.php
NFL Draft Preview 2015: RB Melvin Gordon III: http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfl-draft-preview-2015-rb-melvin-gordon-iii/
Detroit Lions 2015 NFL draft prospect: Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_2015_nfl_draft_p_21.html
CFF Player Profile: Melvin Gordon, HB: https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/04/22/cff-player-profile-melvin-gordon-hb/
Articles:
Previewing the NFL draft's RB prospects - Melvin Gordon's breakout 2014 likely vaults him into Round 1 (4-29-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/29/running-back-prospects-melvin-gordon-wisconsin-todd-gurley/26578901/
Injury Analysis for 2015 Draft (Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: Injury History - Gordon suffered a severe tear in his groin in 2011. Analysis - No further recurrence throughout the rest of his college career means that this injury is most likely behind me. From an injury perspective he is one of the “safer” immediate impact players in the draft this year.) (4-28-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/53796/468/injury-analysis-for-2015-draft
Zierlien: 2015 NFL Draft's safest prospects (Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin: It's hard to label any running back as safe these days -- especially first-rounders -- but Gordon has an undeniable ability to create for himself when running room is limited. He also has the burst to run away from tacklers in tight spaces. Gordon's improvement in the passing game this past season only strengthens my contention that he is a safe prospect.) (4-28-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488373/article/brandon-scherff-amari-cooper-among-drafts-safest-prospects
2015 All-Draft Team (Running back: Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: Gordon is not the fastest back, but he has the ability to get into the open field very quickly. He's also a lot bigger than people seem to think he is; though he checks in at 215 pounds, he seems to be perceived more like a 190-pound guy. Gordon's game has really improved, and he looks like he'll be something special.) (4-28-15): http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000488359/2015-alldraft-team
Dan Leach's Top 3 Detroit Lions Possibilities At #23 In the 2015 NFL Draft (1-RB-MELVIN GORDON-WISCONSIN (6-1 215 POUNDS): I know some will say you have to build an offensive line or it doesn’t matter who is running behind it, but Gordon is simply too good to pass up on. Although it was short lived, Gordon broke the NCAA single game rushing record last season rushing for 408 yards … IN THREE QUARTERS, against Nebraska last season. He’s tremendously explosive with rare speed and a threat to score on any carry. Gordon alongside Joique Bell could end up being one of the sneaky best backfields in the league, if he is able to make the transition to the NFL’s size and speed shortly like I believe he can and then some.) (4-28-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/04/28/dan-leachs-top-3-detroit-lions-possibilities-at-23-in-the-2015-nfl-draft/
Coach: Four NFL teams set on drafting Wisconsin's Gordon if available (4-27-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488389/article/melvin-gordons-former-coach-told-four-clubs-want-badgers-star
Melvin Gordon says he's better than Todd Gurley, but nervous about going Round 1 (4-24-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/melvin-gordon-says-he-s-better-than-todd-gurley--but-nervous-about-going-round-1-185308831.html
Mike Mayock: It'd be hard for Detroit Lions to pass on RBs Todd Gurley, Melvin Gordon in draft (4-23-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/mike_mayock_will_be_hard_for_d.html
Video - The Call: Melvin Gordon (4-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/videos/the-call/0ap3000000486779/The-Call-Melvin-Gordon
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (1. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: Gordon was a joy to watch in college because he was a home-run threat each time he touched the ball. He plays with great balance and vision, and if he sees a hole, he accelerates through it and quickly reaches top speed. At 6-foot-1, 215 pounds, he’s big enough to take hits in the NFL. If he improves as a receiver, the Jamaal Charles comparisons will be valid.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
Melvin Gordon makes trip to Miami Dolphins (4-14-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485310/article/melvin-gordon-makes-trip-to-miami-dolphins
Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon to visit Cleveland Browns (4-14-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485333/article/wisconsin-rb-melvin-gordon-to-visit-cleveland-browns
Possible Lions draft targets 3.0 (The other Day 1 running back: Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon. His potential may not be as high as Gurley's, but Gordon showed at Wisconsin that he can be a home-run back who can catch passes out of the backfield. He could fill the Reggie Bush role on the Lions.) (4-14-15): http://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/14/possible-lions-draft-targets-30/25766415/
Report: Melvin Gordon won't last past Ravens in 2015 NFL Draft (4-13-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25147388/report-melvin-gordon-wont-last-past-ravens-in-2015-nfl-draft
Greg Cosell's NFL draft preview: Examining the top RBs in a great class (Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: Gordon is a tough analysis. It's difficult evaluating 60- or 70-yard touchdown runs when the back isn’t touched. That won’t happen in the NFL. Yet, Gordon had more big runs than anyone in college football last season; they were the bulk of his impressive production. It would be a lot if Gordon has one of those runs each season in the NFL. So what do those runs mean in the context of evaluation? I like Gordon but you have to be careful how you evaluate him. He does, of course, have outstanding acceleration. He can go from zero to 60 in a heartbeat. He also has lateral quickness and agility at the point of attack; he has deceptively quick feet with the ability to stick and go. He showed the ability on inside runs to get skinny and get through small cracks at the point of attack, an important RB attribute. The NFL is an inside-running game; to be successful you have to be good between the tackles. You could make an argument one of his best games was the Big Ten championship game against Ohio State, when the Buckeyes blew out Wisconsin. Gordon had to run really hard in that game, and he ran hard. That’s what the NFL is. Gordon, however, is not really a shifty and elusive open-field runner. He’s more of a slasher and a strider than a wiggle/make-you-miss runner. And he sometimes geared down on inside runs and slowed his feet when there was no defined hole. You can’t do that in the NFL. Too many times he was tentative when the point of attack was muddled. I like Gordon’s running mentality. He has the mindset of a feature back. Every yard had value. And with experience he can be effective in an NFL passing game. He showed the ability to catch with his hands, and made some tough grabs away from his body. He also showed the willingness and effort necessary to block blitzers. Overall Gordon is an explosive speed back with excellent size, enough wiggle and shiftiness, and a tough inside running mentality. He has a chance to be an impact runner who can change games with explosion plays. The main questions: Can Gordon be a foundation back in a run-first offense? Can Gordon consistently work and be effective in the middle of the defense when the point of attack is not clean? Can he carry 20-22 times a game in the NFL, and be consistent? These are things he’ll have to prove.) (4-12-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--examining-the-top-running-backs-in-a-great-class-184532748.html
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin (6-1, 215): He could be available at No. 23 as the No. 2 running back and No. 24 overall prospect. He's a speed runner and can get to the outside fast. He can also run inside and can pick up yards after contact. The biggest concerns with him might be his hands -- 22 career receptions at Wisconsin -- and his fumbling. He had 12 fumbles at Wisconsin, losing seven. Of those, seven fumbles -- six lost -- came in 2014.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
Nos. 24-20: Two of Round 1's biggest red flags (22. Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin: Bio: Gordon established himself as a first-round draft prospect when he ran for an incredible 408 yards and four touchdowns against Nebraska last November, but he certainly wasn't a one-game wonder. The Badger gained an NCAA-best 2,587 yards and scored 29 touchdowns on the ground last season, and that was after a 1,609-yard, 12-touchdown season in 2013. In the right NFL system, Gordon has the potential to transcend the iffy history of transition seen by Wisconsin backs in recent years, but his ideal NFL team will have to understand that he's more a speed back than a true franchise-defining headbanger. Strengths: Impressive speed to and through the hole. Accelerates to top speed quickly, which allows him to be very effective on draws and delays. Second gear has him moving smoothly pact linebackers and into the secondary in a big hurry. Has the speed and cutting ability to jump multiple gaps. Tremendous balance—doesn't lose his base when moving laterally; keeps his shoulders straight and the speed on. Home-run potential on nearly every play as long as he gets through an open gap at the line. Best as an outside rusher where he can utilize his acceleration to eat up huge chunks of yardage. Weaknesses: Reportedly held to zero or negative yards on nearly 20 percent of his carries, and that shows up on tape. Gordon is a fairly big back (6'1", 215 pounds), but he's not a power player who will consistently break through the first line if gaps aren't open. Not creative enough to get out of trash after first contact—needs to use his vision better to get out of trouble. Breaks tackles with acceleration more than raw power. Runs too upright at times and loses leverage. Could get lost in the NFL unless he learns to take advantage of smaller and quicker-closing gaps. Benefited from a physical, imposing line in college, and may need that at the next level. Average receiver who will need to improve this aspect of his game as a professional. Fumbled multiple times down the stretch in the 2014 season. Conclusion: While his lack of power and iffy pass-blocking will likely prevent him from getting every snap in a traditional sense, Gordon could be a tremendous asset in an offense where he's required to flare out of the backfield and get open in space, both as a runner and as a receiver. Like Charles in Kansas City, Gordon will be best-served by an NFL team that thinks outside the box—and prevents him from languishing in one. Pro Comparison: Jamaal Charles, Chiefs (Round 3, 2008).) (4-9-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/09/2015-nfl-draft-ranking-si-64-melvin-gordon-dorial-green-beckham
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (2/22. *Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin, 6-1, 215, 4.43, 1: --Flash Gordon: After Montee Ball and James White, Gordon is Wisconsin's latest and greatest running back contribution to pro football. In 2014, he showed agility and acceleration reminiscent of former temporary Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush and a jump cut that would make LaDainian Tomlinson proud while bursting for 2,587 yards rushing, only 42 yards short of Barry Sanders' FBS record 2,628 yards (Oklahoma State, 1988). Gordon doesn't have the power to push many piles, is still refining the art of receiving and may need to find true north more quickly in the NFL, where dancing should be limited to the end zone. But his natural abilities still make him a home-run threat whenever he touches the ball, such as those 17 runs of more than 40 yards last year. Gordon started 22-of-46 games, including his final 14, carrying 631 times for 4,915 yards (7.79 average per carry) and 45 touchdowns; he caught 22 passes for 228 yards (10.36 average) and four scores. Gordon finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting behind Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota. --Measuring up: At the combine, Gordon performed as expected with a 40-yard time of 4.52 seconds (10 in 1.62), a 35-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-six-inch broad jump and 19 reps with 225 pounds on the bench. At his March 11 pro day, Gordon impressed scouts with his receiving skills. --Notable quote: "It's a passing game. It's hard to say if we're a devalued position. Teams are just going with the picks they actually need. I don't know the thoughts that's going through their head. Maybe they didn't feel the running backs the last couple of years were first-round talent. ... We just have to change that this year and show people that we're capable of going in the first round." -- Gordon at the combine, when asked if the running back position was devalued in the NFL. --Frankly: Gordon's natural running ability is obvious and he is becoming comfortable as a receiver, which should make him a very potent weapon in the NFL.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
Duke vs. Wisconsin: Which school has better 2015 NFL Draft prospects? (1. Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin: The undisputed top prospect between these two schools, Gordon could be an instant impact in the backfield for a number of teams who are in need at the position, including the San Diego Chargers, Arizona Cardinals, and Dallas Cowboys. He's already made pre-draft visits to at least two of those teams. If Gordon goes ahead of Georgia's Todd Gurley, he'll be the first running back drafted in the first round since three were picked in 2012.) (4-6-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483598/article/duke-vs-wisconsin-who-has-better-2015-nfl-draft-prospects
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (2. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: How incredible was Gordon last season? He fell just 41 yards short of Barry Sanders's single-season NCAA rushing record (2,628 yards); he would have shattered that mark had Western Illinois not held Gordon, who was dealing with a nagging hip ailment, to 38 yards during an early-September matchup. Nevertheless, Gordon's 2014 performance was mesmerizing. Those numbers will mean nothing once his rookie season gets underway, of course, but the way in which Gordon made it to 2,500-plus yards still does. Behind Wisconsin's burly offensive line, Gordon showed patience in following his blocks and backed it with the speed to fire through a defense. What he did for the Badgers will not be repeatable as a pro (his 408 yards on 25 carries against Nebraska was a feat only college football could produce), but he still should be a Rookie of the Year favorite. Projection: Late first round to early second round) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
Casserly: Wisconsin's Gordon would be 1,500-yard RB with Cowboys (4-2-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483301/article/casserly-melvin-gordon-would-be-1500yard-rb-with-cowboys
Path to the Pros: Melvin Gordon says, 'I want to be the best back' (3-31-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/path-to-the-pros--melvin-gordon-says---i-want-to-be-the-best-back-172821940.html
Detroit Lions: Top 5 draft targets ( Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin: Gordon could easily be taken before the Lions at 23, but if he's available, it would be hard to pass. The Lions cut Reggie Bush last month, leaving the running back position with Joique Bell and Theo Riddick. Gordon could be a game changer in the NFL. He's an explosive playmaker, with great speed and agility, and he's also a pretty good pass catcher.) (3-30-15): http://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/football/detroit-lions-top-5-draft-targets/32086032
Five RB prospects with best game-breaking speed (2. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: The Heisman Trophy finalist didn't average an astounding 7.8 yards per carry for his entire college career because he dragged tacklers that far. He averaged that much because breakaway touchdowns were a regular Saturday occurrence. Gordon led the entire NCAA last year in runs of 30-plus yards (21), 40-plus (17) and 50-plus (10). If that's not an indicator of game-changing speed, nothing is. Gordon isn't the fastest player listed here on a track (see combine), but his football speed is proven beyond doubt. NFL fit: Dallas Cowboys. Bridges are for sale for those who believe the Cowboys won't pit free-agent signee Darren McFadden against significant rookie competition. The Dallas offensive line is too good to put a disappointing back behind it. Gordon is one of five high-profile backs who will have a pre-draft.) (3-26-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481389/article/five-rb-prospects-with-best-gamebreaking-speed
Cowboys will host five of 2015 draft's best running backs for visits (the 5 RBs are Gurley, Gordon, Coleman, Ajayi and Abdullah) (3-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481528/article/todd-gurley-among-five-running-backs-to-visit-dallas-cowboys
Report: One of the draft's top RBs will meet with the Jaguars (3-18-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479723/article/report-wisconsins-melvin-gordon-to-meet-with-jacksonville
Zierlein's top 10 RB prospects (2. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin - Zierlein's bottom line: Angular, talented open-field runner who combines outstanding burst with a long stride to gain separation and hit the home run. He won't be able to outrun NFL defenders like he did in college and must develop more feel between the tackles. Gordon shines when his track runs over tackle or around the end and can put a defense to sleep around the corner. Not trustworthy enough to be a three-down back, but his pass-catching improved enough to utilize him out of backfield as a receiver.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479538/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-running-backs
Wisconsin pro day: Gordon showing improvement as pass-catcher (Melvin Gordon was the main attraction at Wisconsin's pro day last Wednesday, when representatives from 17 NFL teams, including five running back coaches, were on hand. Gordon (6-foot 3/4, 215 pounds) stood on his combine numbers, but he worked out and looked pretty good catching the ball. Gordon's running style, along with his improvement as a receiver, reminds me a little of Jamaal Charles, the former Texas running back who is now a star for the Kansas City Chiefs. Gordon is likely to be a first-round pick, and I think he'll be a very good player in the NFL.) (3-15-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479101/article/wisconsin-pro-day-melvin-gordon-shows-off-receiving-skills
2015 NFL Draft: This Week In Pro Days (Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon has heard time and time again that his weakness is catching the football, so his pro day was all about catching the football. Gordon looked good doing, bringing in the majority of the balls thrown in his way while running a variety of routes.) (3-13-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-this-week-in-pro-days.html
What we learned from Wednesday's pro days (Gordon has already proved he can run the ball effectively, so his workout at the Badgers' pro day was focused on his ability to catch passes. Gordon looked good running a variety of routes Wednesday and was able haul in most of the passes.) (3-11-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000478381/article/2015-nfl-draft-what-we-learned-from-wednesdays-pro-days
Gordon motivated by not becoming a first-round bust (3-11-15): http://www.foxsports.com/wisconsin/story/former-wisconsin-badgers-rb-melvin-gordon-motivated-by-not-becoming-a-first-round-bust-031115
Melvin Gordon to NFL teams: Draft me, and you'll get a great player (3-11-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000478311/article/melvin-gordon-whoever-drafts-me-will-get-a-great-player
Would RB Gordon start or be project for Lions? (3-8-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/03/08/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-melvin-gordon/24601599/
NFL Draft Top 50, Nos. 21-30: Character hurts DGB, Marcus Peters (26. Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon 6-1, 215 - Big-play back with burst through the hole and surprising size and musculature. Gordon has his limitations in the passing game, both as a receiver and on blitz pickup, and has a fumbling issue that will give scouts pause. But Gordon has moves upon moves, sees holes before they open up, runs to space beautifully and is one carry away from a home run. Does he have blazing, pull-away speed? No, but Gordon has enough burst to be a great first- and second-down runner. But that's the debate scouts are having: Do you draft that kind of back — or any type of back, for that matter — in this day and age? NFL comparison: Lamar Miller. Draft range: Second round.) (3-4-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-draft-top-50--nos--21-30--character-issues-hurt-dgb--marcus-peters-195912659.html
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Gordon's fumble rate is once in every 54.4 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
The NFL Draft’s 5 best Running Backs (2. Melvin Gordon – Wisconsin: Gordon had as good a season as any running back has in years…maybe ever! He ran for 2587 yards, a 7.5 average per carry, and a whopping 29 touchdowns. He got a bit more involved in the passing game this year with 19 receptions. While Gordon only ran a 4.52 at Indy, he plays like a 4.40 guy. He has a great burst, and once he gets in the open field, he’s gone. He is quick and elusive and can make the first and sometimes the second man miss. He has top instincts and is a good decision maker. While he runs with power in space, I don’t always see that power inside. While he is good, he is not a great after contact runner. We saw that in the Big Ten Championship game and also in the Western Illinois game where an FCS school held Gordon to 2.9 yards per carry. I had questions about Gordon’s hands, but he showed at the Combine that he can catch the ball cleanly. The other area where there are questions is in pass protection. On tape, he is not only a very average blocker, but also lacks technique. Without question, Gordon will be the first or second back selected this year.) (3-3-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/the-nfl-drafts-5-best-running-backs
14 players that need to have strong pro days (Melvin Gordon – Wisconsin – The same holds true for Gordon. I think every scout in the league felt Gordon would break 4.45. When he ran 4.52 that was a bit disappointing.) (2-27-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/14-players-that-need-to-have-a-strong-pro-day/
Sources Tell Us: Scoop on top prospects (The scoop: "This draft class has some of the most intelligent prospects I've ever spoken with. Most of our interviews were great. My three favorite were probably Kevin White (WVU), Melvin Gordon (Wisconsin) and (Alex) Carter (Stanford)." -- AFC executive. The skinny: Most coaches and front-office types want to see great tape first, followed by good measurables and then a good interview. While draft and combine prep has included help with the interviewing process, prospects can't fake football or personal intelligence. White played just two seasons at West Virginia, but was asked to take on more routes and responsibilities this season and was up to the challenge. He was also very natural in every interview he had with media members. Gordon was two-time Academic All-Big Ten and interned at Merrill Lynch this summer. Carter is a psychology major at Stanford, and his father Tom Carter was a first-round draft pick out of Notre Dame and spent 10 seasons in the NFL.) (2-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000474067/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-draft-prospects
Top Combine Performers at Lions position of need (Melvin Gordon, 6-1, 215, Wisconsin: Gordon's tape is so good that all he really had to do was not flop to be considered the best back in the draft. His 4.52 40 was solid and he showed explosion and quickness as a top performer in the broad jump (third), 20-yard shuttle (second) and 60-yard shuttle (first).) (2-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473997/article/marcus-peters-paul-dawson-among-combine-duds-with-promise
Gordon may be drafted in Round 1, but is he worth it? (2-24-15): http://mmqb.si.com/2015/02/24/melvin-gordon-nfl-draft-film-breakdown/
The good, the bad and the ugly Scouting Combine Performances (60 yd shuttle - Solid effort: Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon had the second-fastest 60-yard shuttle, clocking 11.00 seconds. Gordon had great productivity in college, and at the Combine he showed he has the athleticism to match.) (2-23-15): http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/02/23/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-scouting-combine-performances/
Combine Notebook Part II (Melvin Gordon – I felt his workout wasn’t what was expected. He ran a 4.52 which is good, but most felt that he would be in the low to mid 4.4’s. His long jump was 10’6″, and that was very good but his 4.07 in the 3-cone was a little slower than expected. His bench of 19 reps, vertical jump of 35″, and 7.04 3-cone were good but not as good as what people expected. Don’t be surprised if he does some of those drills over at his pro day.) (2-22-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-nfl-combine-notebook-part-ii/
Video - Melvin Gordon Combine workout (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/2015-NFL-Combine-Melvin-Gordon-full-workout/f8497429-533f-44c1-9c82-865a118512b8
Gordon makes his case at the Combine (He ran a 4.52 and 4.53 in his two attempts in the 40 yd dash. In drills running around cones, Gordon showed the quick feet that helped him run for 2,587 yards and 19 touchdowns last season as Wisconsin. He wasn't called upon often as a receiver last season (19 catches, 153 yards and three touchdowns), but he showed his receiving skills in drills Saturday. In a short pass drill, he made a quick cut and caught the ball cleanly away from his body. He adjusted to the ball and hauled in a longer pass of about 35 yards. Gordon did 19 bench press reps, which was the average for running backs at the combine last year.) (2-21-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/02/21/analysis-melvin-gordon-makes-his-case-at-nfl-scouting-combine-running-backs/23803427/
Saturday at the Combine (Word on the street - Hall of Fame RB and current NFL Network broadcaster Marshall Faulk wasn't concerned by Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon's forty times of 4.52 and 4.53 on Saturday. "He has enough speed -- he can break the long run," Faulk said. Here, here. Any disappointment in Gordon’s time is probably a direct result of ubiquitous comparisons to Jamaal Charles (and his 4.36 wheels). Might be better to consider Gordon as more of a Robert Smith, a player who didn't look like a burner even as he long-strided into the open field past defensive backs.) (2-21-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/52333/351/saturday-at-the-nfl-combine
2015 Combine: Day 4 (Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon had solid 40 times of 4.52 and 4.53, both with 10 yard splits of 1.63.) (2-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-4-news-notes.html
RBs 2015 Combine Field Drill Recaps (The consensus top running back in the draft is Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon. He had a solid, but unspectacular Combine performance. His unofficial 40 time of 4.52 was fine, but many thought he would be in the high 4.4s. However, Gordon looked good in the field drills. For a 6-foot-1, 215-pound back, Gordon displayed a natural ability to sink his hips and bend at the knees while cutting. That keeps his pad level down and prevents him from running upright. Gordon also caught passes well in the receiving drills. While Gordon didn't blow the Combine away, he did well enough to secure his standing in the first round.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutRB.php
Melvin Gordon ran a disappointing 4.52 in the 40 (2-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473061/article/melvin-gordon-runs-a-452-in-the-40-at-combine
HS teammates Waynes, Gordon keeping Combine Competitive (2-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000472995/article/trae-waynes-melvin-gordon-keeping-combine-competitive
Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon confirms status as first-round prospect in NFL draft (2-21-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/02/melvin_gordon_detroit_lions.html
RBs 2015 Combine Bench Press Analysis (Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon is the favorite to be the first running back drafted. Gordon (6-1, 215) is known for his speed, and he had 19 reps on the bench press. It wasn't bad, but not all that impressive either.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchRB.php
AFC exec says Melvin Gordon just a runner, 'prefers TJ Yeldon (2-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000472409/article/afc-exec-says-melvin-gordon-just-a-runner-prefers-tj-yeldon
Could the Lions be looking to drafting a RB? (This year’s draft will also feature Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon who was spectacular for the Badgers. Gordon was unstoppable rushing for 2,587 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2014 including a game against Nebraska where he gained 408 yards and rushed for 4 TD’s. Gordon could easily be a first round pick and was actually seen wearing a Lions hat last month. “I like all NFL teams, I like the color so I just got the Lions hat” Gordon said. “A lot of people were giving me stuff on Twitter, this and that. I don’t have a favorite team; I have too many teammates that play on teams so I just go with whatever. I like the hat so I bought it.” Gordon expects to meet with the Lions over the weekend.) (2-19-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/02/19/could-the-lions-be-looking-to-draft-a-rb/
2015 NFL Combine: RB Weigh-In Analysis (The top back in the draft is Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon, and he checked in at 6-foot-1, 215 pounds with 9 3/4-inch hands. Those are excellent-size numbers for a speed back. Gordon has rare quickness and burst, yet has the size to be a workhorse back. Gordon has a rare skill set with his size and speed.) (2-19-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015weighinRB.php
2015 Combine: Winners and losers from Day 2 Media Session (Gordon is picked as a winner. Lessons learned from his time spent on the awards circuit during his final season at Wisconsin were on full display at the podium. He gave plenty of intelligent answers while also mixing in a laugh or two. Not only that, his confidence in his own abilities really came through.) (2-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000472334/article/2015-combine-winners-and-losers-from-day-2s-media-session
Five hits for Melvin Gordon (2-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000471858/article/melvin-gordons-nfl-fits-include-cardinals-ravens-cowboys
2015 NFL Scouting Combine players to watch: Offense (Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: With Georgia's Todd Gurley unlikely to participate in any individual events as he rehabs from a torn ACL, Gordon will get a lot of the running back spotlight. He seems likely to go in the first round, and Gurley's injury might mean Gordon will be the first back selected. Gordon deservedly received a ton of hype after rushing for 2,587 yards in 2014, second most in FBS history. He also showed more as a receiver and blocker, though there still are questions about those facets of his game. His 40 times and results in the shuttle and cone drills, if he chooses to do those, could be noteworthy.) (2-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470692/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-players-to-watch-offense
How Melvin Gordon gets fueled during draft process (2-15-15): http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/nfl-draft-wisconsin-melvin-gordon-keeps-fueled-during-draft-process-021615
NFL combine options wide open for Lions (Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: He and Todd Gurley are both likely first-round picks, and even though it's not the most pressing need, the highly-productive Gordon (6-foot) could be an every-down back that solves plenty of offensive problems.) (2-16-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/02/15/combine-options-wide-open-lions/23475107/
Who to watch at the scouting Combine (2-15-15): http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/photos/nfl-scouting-combine-jameis-winston-marcus-mariota-melvin-gordon-paul-dawson-021515#img_4
3 to watch at Combine: RBs (If the Lions are looking to move on from Reggie Bush, Gordon offers an immediate replacement as a home-run threat. The Wisconsin standout is extraordinary in the open field, averaging 7.8 yards per carry during his college career. The biggest concern is his limited effectiveness as a pass-catcher.) (2-13-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/02/3_to_watch_at_combine_running.html
Ajayi trains for the NFL with Melvin Gordan (2-13-15): http://www.idahostatesman.com/2015/02/13/3643246/boise-states-jay-ajayi-trains.html
Cian's Corner: Melvin Gordon (2-12-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/52176/349/cians-corner-melvin-gordon
2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Six running backs under scrutiny (Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin: With Georgia's Todd Gurley unlikely to participate in any individual events as he rehabs from a torn ACL, Gordon will get a lot of the running back spotlight. He seems likely to go in the first round, and Gurley's injury might mean Gordon will be the first back selected. Gordon deservedly received a ton of hype after rushing for 2,587 yards in 2014, second-most in FBS history. He also showed more as a receiver and blocker, though there still are questions about those facets of his game. His 40 times and results in the shuttle and cone drills, if he chooses to do those, could be noteworthy.) (2-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000469375/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-six-running-backs-under-scrutiny
Lions NFL combine preview: Running backs (Gordon is the No. 1 running back and No. 17 player overall by ESPN. He won the Doak Walker Award and was a Heisman finalist. His 2,587 yards in 2014 were the second-most in a single season in FBS history behind Barry Sanders in 1988. For a feature back doesn’t have a ton of mileage -- only 631 career carries for 4,915 yards and 45 touchdowns. ) (2-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/15161/lions-nfl-combine-preview-running-back
2015 Combine Preview: Running back (Best trait: Home run threat – Gordon averaged 7.6 yards per carry this past season and had 40 runs of 15-plus yards. He rushed for a staggering 2,587 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2014. Concern: Inside track – Some of the criticism on Gordon’s game from NFL talent evaluators is that he tries to bounce runs outside too much and isn’t a strong runner between the tackles. He’s not going to be faster than everyone at this level and needs to learn – much like Reggie Bush did when he came into the league – that often times a runner has to get what he can get until the opportunity for a big play presents itself. The skinny: Gordon will try to be the first running back taken in the first round of the draft since Trent Richardson in 2012. He has great size, speed and the collegiate production to be a great back at the next level.) (2-10-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/2015-Combine-Preview-Running-back/850078f5-6a7c-4022-9317-650198604ace
Three Players Lions Could Take In Draft (Since the NFL has become so pass-oriented and since the Lions rely heavily on the air attack, it is hard to imagine Detroit moving up to go after a running back, even though the Lions could use an upgrade at the position. However, Kiper stressed that Gordon will be worth some team’s investment. “Gordon … has the kind of game-changing talent that puts this position back into play this early,” Kiper wrote. “He was simply unstoppable even when everybody in the stadium knew he was getting the ball in 2014, and while he piled up the reps, he emerged healthy … Gordon is a home-run threat.”
The running game of Detroit struggled mightily last season, ranking 28th in the league in rushing yards per game. Reggie Bush battled injuries most of the season, and the 2015 season will be his 10th in the NFL. He maintains he will bounce back this season, but Lions general manager Martin Mayhew wants more balance in the offense, and if the Lions do not think Bush can provide it, maybe Gordon would be a consideration.)(2-10-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/02/11/three-players-other-than-malcolm-brown-lions-could-take-in-draft/
Todd Gurley vs. Melvin Gordon: 2015 NFL Draft comparison (2-9-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-02-09/nfl-draft-2015-melvin-gordon-todd-gurley-scouting-reports-comparisons-running-backs-injuries
Gordon or Gurley? LT reveals his pick (He thinks Gordon will go first because of Gurley's knee injury. Melvin Gordon reminds him of Jamaal Charles. Gordon's season became all that Gurley's was supposed to have been, rushing for a whopping 2,587 yards, including a then-record 408 against Nebraska on the very day Gurley was injured.) (1-28-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000464806/article/ladainian-tomlinson-melvin-gordon-to-be-first-back-drafted
Kiper: Gurley, Gordon could make sense for Lions (1-23-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/01/mel_kiper_todd_gurley_melvin_g.html
5 players who should've stayed in school (He was one of the 5 that made a good decision. Gordon (6-0 1/2, 215 pounds) reminds me a lot of St. Louis Rams RB Tre Mason; he's bigger and stronger, but he's got Mason's tremendous quickness. He's an interesting player because up until this season he had started only eight games. This year he started all 13 games -- 14 if you count the bowl game -- running for 2,587 yards, the second-highest total ever, and 29 touchdowns. Gordon improved in two key areas last season: He became a much better pass catcher, posting 26 catches after posting 16 in his three seasons before, and a more reliable player in pass protection. I think Gordon has enough strength to carry the ball 20 times a game in the NFL, and he should have a lot more success as a rookie than Mason did.) (1-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000459997/article/2015-nfl-draft-5-players-who-should-have-stayed-in-school
Who helped their draft stock most in bowl season (Gordon has now faced three SEC defenses over the last two years. He put up big numbers against South Carolina in last year's bowl game and also put up an impressive total against LSU to start the 2014 campaign. For his closing statement, he rushed for 251 yards against Auburn in the Outback Bowl. For scouts who favor Gordon over Gurley, you can bet those numbers will be brought up in draft meetings. ) (1-5-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000454513/article/instant-debate-who-helped-his-draft-stock-most-in-bowl-season
Gordon runs for 251 in Outback Bowl (Gordon moved into second place on the FBS single-season rushing list, finishing with 2,587 yards. That is 41 yards shy of Barry Sanders' single-season mark of 2,628 in 1988. Gordon was fourth heading into the day and passed USC's Marcus Allen (2,342 in 1981) and UCF's Kevin Smith (2,567 in 2007). Gordon averaged 7.54 yards per carry; Sanders was at 7.64. The two highest averages for a 2,000-yard rusher are 7.81 by Nebraska's Mike Rozier in 1983 and 7.70 by Penn State's Larry Johnson in 2002. Gordon also finished with 29 rushing TDs, one shy of becoming just the fifth player in history with 30 rushing TDs in a season. His second TD was a 53-yarder late in the third quarter; it was his 10th run of at least 50 yards this season, a figure that leads the nation.) (1-1-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000452707/article/wisconsins-melvin-gordon-runs-for-251-in-outback-bowl-win
NFL talent showcased in other New Year's Bowls (1-1-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24929327/nfl-draft-nfl-talent-showcased-in-other-new-years-bowls
Hundley leads prospects with most on line in bowl season (Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin Bowl game: Outback (vs. Auburn, Jan. 1) - Analysis: The Doak Walker Award winner, who announced this week he would enter the 2015 draft, was the biggest reason why the Badgers were labeled the favorite in the Big Ten Championship game. Things didn't work out too well in that contest, so he'll need a nice bounce-back game in the Outback Bowl to help his stock point back up. One thing scouts would love to see against Auburn? Gordon catching the ball more out of the backfield.) (12-12-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000442654/article/brett-hundley-leads-prospects-with-most-on-line-in-bowl-season
Projecting the 2014 Heisman Finalists to the NFL (Eclipsing the 2,000 yard mark faster than any running back ever has before, Gordon currently leads the FBS with 2,336 rushing yards and has scored 26 touchdowns in 13 games. Like the impressive slate of Wisconsin backs before him, Gordon has been aided by a talented offensive line, but make no mistake, he's an elite talent in his own right. He boasts elite acceleration and great lateral agility to make defenders miss, a combination that has earned comparisons to Kansas City Chiefs' star Jamaal Charles, though Gordon is bigger.) (12-11-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24881719/nfl-draft-projecting-the-2014-heisman-finalists-to-the-nfl
Breaking down Gordon's NFL draft prospects (12-10-14): http://www.si.com/college-football/2014/12/10/melvin-gordon-wisconsin-badgers-nfl-draft
Grading NFL prospects in conference title games (Gordon got a C+.) (12-8-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000440933/article/scouts-take-grading-star-players-in-conference-title-games?
Gordon runs for 151 yds vs Minnesota (Gordon limped off the field late in the game with what looked to be a right ankle injury, but before he left, he moved his season total to 2,260 rushing yards. That's the fourth-highest season total in FBS history, behind only Oklahoma State's Barry Sanders (2,628 in 1988), UCF's Kevin Smith (2,567 in 2007) and USC's Marcus Allen (2,342 in 1981).) (11-29-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000435939/article/wisconsins-melvin-gordon-runs-for-151-yards-vs-minnesota
Week 12 Stock Report (It was a special Saturday for the Badgers' back as he set a new FBS single game rushing record with 408 yards on the ground against Nebraska. Gordon broke the old mark of 406 rushing yards set by LaDainian Tomlinson in his TCU days and, amazingly enough, he broke the record on the final play of the third quarter. Scouts always pay more attention to skill-sets over stats, but gaudy production certainly doesn't hurt, especially against a physical Huskers run defense. Gordon showed off his above average balance and acceleration, running through arm tackles and hitting his top speed in a flash to quickly get to the second level and beyond. He reads his blocks very well and showed terrific burst out of his cuts with the light feet that suggest he could be a world-class dancer if he wanted to go that route. Gordon was already thought of as a borderline first round pick entering the season so he isn't all of a sudden a lock top-32 pick now. But it did help his Heisman chances and with Todd Gurley's injury, Gordon is the odds-on-favorite to be the first running back drafted in the 2015 class.) (11-18-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24818692/nfl-draft-week-12-stock-report-melvin-gordon-top-running-back
Scout's take: Can Mel Gordon outshine past Wisconsin RBs? (11-17-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000429903/article/scouts-take-can-melvin-gordon-outshine-past-wisconsin-rbs
Melvin Gordon sets FBS single-game rushing record with 408 yds against Nebraska (11-15-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000428405/article/badgers-melvin-gordon-sets-fbs-singlegame-rushing-record
Week 6 stock report (Few running backs in FBS history boast multiple 250-yard rushing performances, but Wisconsin RS junior RB Melvin Gordon has two in the past three games. Although it came in a loss to Northwestern, Gordon rushed for 259 yards on 27 carries Saturday and now leads the country in rushing yards per game (174.2). Without Michigan State or Ohio State on the schedule, Gordon should feast on porous run defenses in the second half of the season as he makes his case for first round consideration and the Heisman Trophy.) (10-6-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24740896/nfl-draft-week-six-stock-report
Week 2 scouting report (While his game-breaking ability as a ballcarrier is obvious, one of the criticisms with Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon is his unproven ability to be an effective pass-catcher out of the backfield. He entered Saturday's match-up against Western Illinois with only three career catches – one as a redshirt freshman and two last year as a sophomore. But Gordon recorded four catches on Saturday alone, finishing with a touchdown grab and 22 receiving yards, which almost matched his 33 yards rushing. He showed soft hands and the ability to reel-in tough grabs away from his body, both in the flat and the middle of the field. The thought among NFL scouts wasn't that he had poor receiving skills, but rather he didn't have the opportunity to show his ability as a pass catcher. That will change in 2014 as I expect Gordon to show he has all the requisite skills to be a feature NFL running back.) (9-9-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24702638/nfl-draft-week-two-stock-report
Gordon had hip injury vs LSU (9-1-14): http://espn.go.com/blog/bigten/post/_/id/106486/melvin-gordon-had-hip-injury-vs-lsu
RB Todd Gurley:
Scouting Reports:
Georgia: http://www.georgiadogs.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/todd_gurley_793117.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/todd-gurley?id=2552475
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/2000877/todd-gurley
Detroit Lions 2015 NFL draft prospect: Georgia running back Todd Gurley: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_2015_nfl_draft_p_13.html
Articles:
Previewing the NFL draft's RB prospects (Todd Gurley, Georgia (Height: 6-0. Weight: 220): Scouting report: He is widely viewed as the best running back prospect to enter the draft in years, but he comes with one huge question mark: his health, after surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in November. If Gurley's rehab continues according to schedule and without any setbacks, the best case scenario is he'll be ready to play by early September. The team that drafts him will be getting a powerful runner and a versatile player who is also ready to contribute in the passing game. Insider's take: "There's no question about his ability, no question about his work ethic, there's no question about anything football-wise. The question will be: 'Will the knee hold up over a five- to seven-year career?' " — ESPN draft analyst and former Indianapolis Colts general manager Bill Polian. Projected round: First.) (4-29-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/29/running-back-prospects-melvin-gordon-wisconsin-todd-gurley/26578901/
The Best Player In The NFL Draft - Todd Gurley (4-29-15): http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/121041976/nfl-draft-georgia-running-back-todd-gurley-best-player-available
Zierlein: 10 things to believe amid so much draft misinformation (3. Todd Gurley goes early: So is Gurley's draft stock truly rising, or is the talk of his ascending stock just more draft smoke? It is hard to tell at this juncture, but Gurley has just about every tool you want from a workhorse runner and it appears as though ACL injuries simply don't produce the fear they once did with NFL teams. Gurley and Melvin Gordon are head and shoulders above the rest of the running back prospects and teams looking for a first-round rusher might decide that this "deep running back class" isn't as appealing as taking the best back on the board early on.) (4-29-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488910/article/ten-believable-things-amid-so-much-nfl-draft-misinformation
Gurley progressing on long road back from torn ACL (4-29-15): http://mmqb.si.com/2015/04/29/nfl-draft-todd-gurley-recovery-acl/
Who will teams regret passing on in 2015 draft? Analysts say Gurley (4-29-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488933/article/analysts-teams-will-regret-passing-on-todd-gurley-in-2015-draft
At least one team has RB Gurley ranked No. 1 on its draft board (4-29-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488719/article/georgias-todd-gurley-no-1-player-on-one-teams-board
Injury Analysis for 2015 Draft (Todd Gurley, Georgia: Injury History - Gurley tore his ACL at the end of last year. He also sprained his ankle in 2013 and missed 3 games as a result. Analysis - The ACL is not the problem here. The chances of re-injury to that ACL is only 2% in professional athletes the fact that the injury occurred in November means that his rehab will only be complete round about August time. As a result he will miss all of the offseason work that will help condition him for the season. This exposes him to other conditioning related injuries such as hamstring pulls etc… His injury risk will be heightened if he is drafted as the lead back for a team like Dallas. The higher the workload the more opportunity he has to get injured.) (4-28-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/53796/468/injury-analysis-for-2015-draft
2015 All-Draft Team (Running back: Todd Gurley, Georgia: Like Gordon, Gurley is a complete back -- someone who can play all three downs, protect the passer, catch the ball and make big plays. Gurley also has experience returning kickoffs. Yes, he is coming off a torn ACL, but that injury doesn't worry you like it might have 15 years ago. With modern medicine being what it is, some of these guys end up being stronger than they were before they were hurt. Plus, I know Gurley, and I know he'll work hard to rehab.) (4-28-15): http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000488359/2015-alldraft-team
Gurley isn't running from NFL's questions (4-28-15): http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2015/story/_/id/12777918/georgia-todd-gurley-faces-questions-head-leading-2015-nfl-draft-espn-magazine
Top 10 options for Detroit Lions in first round of NFL draft (Todd Gurley: He's widely expected to break the first-round running back drought, and with good reason. He's the best tailback prospect in years. He once represented the U.S. in France on the U-19 hurdle team. Now he weighs 222 pounds, and is a home run waiting to happen anywhere on the field. I personally don't think Detroit uses its pick on a running back — but an exception would have to be made if this guy fell. Detroit has bigger needs, sure, but the word everyone uses with Gurley is "difference maker." The Lions could really use one of those on offense, and particularly in the backfield. He did tear his ACL in mid-November, and could miss the start of the season.) (4-27-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/top_10_options_for_detroit_liodraft;
Does Gurley's ACL Tear Take Him Off Lions' Draft Board? Not Necessarily, Mayhew Says (4-27-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/04/27/does-gurleys-acl-tear-take-him-off-lions-draft-board-not-necessarily-mayhew-says/
Why Todd Gurley was NFL Nation mock draft pick for Detroit Lions (4-27-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16819/why-todd-gurley-was-the-nfl-nation-mock-draft-pick-for-the-detroit-lions
Scouting the SEC: Georgia's Top Prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Todd Gurley, RB, Junior (6-1, 222, 4.52): NFLDraftScout.com Rank: #11 overall/#1 RB, Projection: 1st Round. Gurley (and perhaps Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon) will end the two-year drought on running backs selected in the first round of the NFL draft now that teams have received positive news regarding the back's recovery from the torn ACL which ended his junior season November 15. Durability is the big caveat with Gurley, who missed three games in 2013 due to an ankle injury. When healthy, however, there is no denying Gurley's raw ability. Boasting a combination of size, strength, balance and underrated acceleration, Gurley reminds of Seattle Seahawks' star Marshawn Lynch with his "Beast Mode" like ability to generate yards after contact. Boasting soft hands out of the backfield and even kick return ability, Gurley has the talent to become an NFL star.) (4-26-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25163820/scouting-the-sec-georgias-top-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
NFL draft: 5 players the Lions could take in first round (Todd Gurley, RB: College: Georgia. Vitals: 6 feet, 222 pounds. Scouting report: Gurley is the best running back prospect since at least Trent Richardson, and while that doesn't mean much considering Richardson's career, he is widely considered a difference-maker at a position that has had its value eroded in recent years. Gurley is an every-down back with good hands, better speed and the power to match, but he's coming off an anterior cruciate ligament injury that could drop his draft stock to the late teens or beyond. He said it: "He's just as good in terms of power as he is with straight-line burst through the line. Once he gets going with a head of steam, he's an absolute freight train as a runner. And I think the most underrated part of his game is in the passing game. He's good in protection, and he's so natural catching the football it really actually surprised me, to be honest, because I went and really studied him compared to a lot of the other running backs. I think he's one of the more natural pass catchers at the running back position in this class. Great hand-eye coordination, adjusts to balls thrown outside his frame. Can pluck it on the run, acceleration after the catch. I think he's really going to be productive in that part of the game." — ESPN analyst Todd McShay.) (4-25-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/25/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-first-round/26381459/
Is Georgia RB Gurley worth the gamble in NFL draft? (4-25-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/25/todd-gurley-nfl-draft/26382407/
Detroit Lions GM Martin Mayhew considering injury history of Todd Gurley, other first-round prospects (4-25-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/martin_mayhew_weighing_injury.html
Watch: Gurley shows off speed on treadmill (4-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488133/article/watch-georgias-todd-gurley-shows-off-speed-on-treadmill
Melvin Gordon says he's better than Todd Gurley, but nervous about going Round 1 (4-24-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/melvin-gordon-says-he-s-better-than-todd-gurley--but-nervous-about-going-round-1-185308831.html
2015 NFL Draft: WR Tre McBride among 2015 Firstborn Favorites (Early Rounds (Top-100 picks) - Todd Gurley, Georgia (6-1, 222, 4.52) -- It's tough to find someone who doesn't like Gurley, but I'm not sure enough people recognize just how special his skill set is on the football field. It's tough to find flaws in his game and the only obstacle keeping Gurley from NFL success is the injury bug.) (4-24-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25161990/nfl-draft-wr-tre-mcbride-among-2015-firstborn-favorites
NFP Prospect Focus: Todd Gurley (4-23-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-todd-gurley/
Mike Mayock: It'd be hard for Detroit Lions to pass on RBs Todd Gurley, Melvin Gordon in draft (4-23-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/mike_mayock_will_be_hard_for_d.html
At least five teams think Gurley has great shot to play in Week 1 (4-22-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000487501/article/nfl-teams-todd-gurley-has-great-shot-to-play-in-week-1
Tomlinson: Georgia's Gurley best RB prospect since Peterson (4-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000487038/article/tomlinson-todd-gurley-best-rb-prospect-since-adrian-peterson
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (2. Todd Gurley, Georgia: The margin between Gurley and Gordon is small, but Gurley should be a first-round pick, even after tearing his ACL in November. Gurley proved in college he could be an all-around player with some ability as a receiver and kick returner. He’s 6-foot-1, 222 pounds and runs with both power and speed. If he stays healthy, he’ll be one of the top backs in the NFL.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
Super Bowl champions set up pre-draft visit with Georgia's Gurley (4-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000486307/article/new-england-patriots-to-host-todd-gurley-for-visit
Report: RB Todd Gurley's ACL checks out at medical rechecks (4-18-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25153796/report-rb-todd-gurleys-acl-checks-out-at-medical-rechecks
Some Potentially Risky Selections in the 2015 NFL Draft (Todd Gurley – RB – Georgia: As we all know, Gurley suffered a severe knee injury last fall. He had surgery to repair an ACL, and when at the Combine, he wouldn’t let team doctors examine his knee. He did have an MRI, and according to two different sources, he also had at least one other MRI on another part of his body. Tomorrow, he will return to Indianapolis for the medical rechecks. How his knee checks out will go a long way towards where he is drafted. Don’t look for any team to leak the results of the exam. Even when healthy, running backs have relatively short careers, so if the exam shows potential problems going forward, Gurley could drop on draft day. Things the doctors will be looking for are the strength and stability of the knee joint as well as checking if any arthritis has taken place. Arthritic conditions cannot be cured, only the pain can be monitored. When any player has an arthritic condition, it only gets worse over time and can shorten a player’s career.) (4-17-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/some-potentially-risky-selections-in-the-2015-nfl-draft/
Jeremiah: Vikings could land special back in Gurley if they trade Peterson (4-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000486129/article/jeremiah-vikings-could-land-special-back-in-todd-gurley
2015 NFL Draft positional overviews: Running backs (Biggest upside: Georgia's Todd Gurley. He suffered a torn ACL in late November and still is seen as a lock to go in the first round. That should say it all about his perceived abilities. He has good size (6-foot-1, 222 pounds) and excellent speed and agility; he was a nationally ranked hurdler in high school. In addition to his speed, he runs with power -- violence, even. He is able to both turn the corner and run through contact. Gurley also is a good receiver with soft hands. In short, he has it all. He might not be 100 percent on his first day of camp, but assuming he does return to full health, he has All-Pro talent, not just Pro Bowl talent.) (4-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485602/article/2015-nfl-draft-the-skinny-on-this-years-running-backs
Detroit Lions, NFL Draft, need for a running back and what they should do (By far the best running back in this NFL Draft, and the top talent at the position in several years, is Todd Gurley from Georgia. The comparisons to Marshawn Lynch and Adrian Peterson are not an exaggeration.
But his knee injury (ACL), suffered late last season, should keep the Lions from drafting him. They need a fast running back after finishing near the bottom of the NFL in rushing last year, even with defenses loading up to stop their passing attack, and displaying light boxes up front literally daring the Lions to run the ball. But Gurley's progress is unknown, and will still largely be even after a scheduled evaluation by teams this week in Indianapolis (he wasn't examined at the combine). This is known: Gurley is going to be, at best, limited for the off season program and likely training camp. His impact, which could be extreme, is likely to come down the road. The Lions need to win now. They can't afford to wait, and even if Gurley is there at 23rd overall, it doesn't make sense to take him.) (4-16-15): http://patcaputo.blogspot.com/2015/04/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-need-for.html
Medical recheck Gurley’s last hurdle to stardom? (4-16-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/15/todd-gurley-medical-recheck-indianapolis-combine-marcus-lattimore-adrian-peterson/25844105/
Gordon handicaps the draft race for RBs: 'It's me against Todd right now' (4-14-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485245/article/melvin-gordon-makes-his-case-against-todd-gurley
Jeremiah: Gurley more likely to go top 10 than end of Round 1 (4-14-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485391/article/jeremiah-gurley-more-likely-to-go-top-10-than-end-of-round-1
Possible Lions draft targets 3.0 (Running backs, anyone? Georgia RB Todd Gurley is a bit of a risk coming off a major ACL injury with the Bulldogs but, if he can fully recover, he could on day be one of the NFL's top running backs.) (4-14-15): http://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/14/possible-lions-draft-targets-30/25766415/
TIM AND MIKE: What will Lions do with 23rd pick? (Mike: OK, my GM hat is on. And with a little more than two weeks left before the draft – I’m not telling you my plan!!! Switching hats, though, from GM to writer, the dream pick at No. 23 is Todd Gurley, the running back from Georgia. It isn’t realistic that Gurley will still be on the board, and I know he’s recovering from a torn knee ligament he sustained in November, but I don’t care if he walks to the podium with a slight limp on April 30. And I don’t care if he’s still recovering all the way through the offseason, training camp, preseason games and the start of the season. If he’s healthy for the stretch run – the last 10 to 12 games – that’s enough. The combination of Joique Bell, Theo Riddick and Gurley would give the Lions the best backfield depth in 17 years – since the 1998 season when Barry Sanders carried the load himself. Am I oversold on Gurley, or just plain delusional, period? Tim: Not oversold. I met with him when he visited Allen Park on a pre-draft visit last month and the kid is impressive. Do you know what else is impressive? His tape. I’ve said all along that he’s the best back in the draft. He's a terrific blend of size and speed. He might be the best back available since Adrian Peterson in 2007. I think he’s that good.) (4-14-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/TIM-AND-MIKE-What-will-Lions-do-with-23rd-pick/89116c24-f9f6-489b-84eb-f05e70feb902
CBSSports.com Players of the Week (Offensive Player of the Week: Georgia RB Todd Gurley: Gurley was the star of Saturday, pounding the Clemson defense for 198 yards (13.2 yards per carry) and three touchdowns on the ground while adding a 100-yard kickoff return score. Mark Richt called Gurley "the best player in America" after the 45-21 win, and as long as he stays healthy he should continue to be in that conversation.) (9-1-14): http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/eye-on-college-football/24690382/cbssportscom-players-of-the-week-sept-1
2015 NFL draft: The five safest picks of the first round (5. Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia. So there’s talk about teams just going with Melvin Gordon III as the top running back because of concerns about Gurley’s recovery from knee surgery. That would be a mistake. Of the two, Gurley (6-1, 221) is better built to be an elite, explosive workhorse. Really, if he didn’t have that ACL, he would be a top-10 consideration. SN learned right before the Combine that Gurley is worth what’s becoming more minimal risk by the day, which keeps raising his reward. As the rare special all-around back, a team can just feature Gurley and expect to see the next great one. Because of the injury hesitation for some teams, he is more of a “luxury” pick for playoff-caliber team picking in the second half of the first round.) (4-13-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-04-13/2015-nfl-draft-safest-picks-amari-cooper-leonard-williams-todd-gurley-scherff-parker-jameis-winston-marcus-mariota
No. 16: Gurley's injury will test faith in his rare talent (4-13-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/13/nfl-draft-rankings-si-64-todd-gurley-georgia
2015 NFL Draft: Health re-check crucial for RB Todd Gurley, others (4-13-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25147597/nfl-draft-combine-re-check-crucial-for-prospects-like-rb-todd-gurley
Detroit Lions top 5 possible first-round draft picks (Running back Todd Gurley(Georgia) could fill Reggie Bush’s shoes. Gurley, is coming off ACL surgery in November, which makes him a bit of a risk. But from all indications, he is worthy of first-round consideration and would go higher if not for the injury. ACL injuries are not as career-threatening as they once were. Gurley (in photo at right) is built for the NFL at 6-foot-1 and 222 pounds. Rob Rang of CBSsports.com compares him to Marshawn Lynch. He’s one of two running backs who the Lions brought in for a pre-draft visit. (The other was Indiana’s Tevin Coleman.)) (4-11-15): http://oplions.blogspot.com/2015/04/detroit-lions-top-5-possible-first.html
Top 'Dawg: Gurley a man among boys in draft (4-11-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--todd-gurley-may-be-best-prospect-in-class-180456535.html
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (Todd Gurley, Georgia (6-1, 222): He is the least likely of all the backs to be around at No. 23. He's the top running back in the draft and the No. 11 prospect overall. The Lions had him in for a pre-draft visit as well, probably in part to look at his knee. He has a very good combination of speed and power and can be a returner as well. He's the most complete back in this draft and if he's there at No. 23, Detroit needs to think hard about him.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (1/18. *Todd Gurley, Georgia, 6-1, 222, 4.52, 1: --Caveat Emptor: Gurley was on track to be a top-10 draft pick until Nov. 15, 2014 when he tore the ACL in his left knee, which was surgically repaired Nov. 26 and the ETA for a return approximately the time of his 21st birthday on August 3. Gurley was a leading Heisman Trophy candidate, but that disappeared even before the ACL injury when, on October 9, he was suspended indefinitely -- which became four games -- for accepting $3,000 to autograph memorabilia. In his first game back, Gurley blew out the ACL, leaving his yards rushing for the year at an ominous total of 911. When healthy, Gurley is a big back with a fearless, in-your-face style that is similar to Seattle Seahawk Marshawn Lynch's Beast Mode. --More red flags: Gurley missed three games with an ankle injury in 2013 and after his departure last season, his replacement, Nick Chubb, was so productive that some scouts wonder if Georgia's offensive line should get more credit. Gurley started 27-of-30 games during his college career, ranking second in Georgia record books with 4,322 all-purpose yards and 3,285 yards on the ground. His average of 6.44 yards per rushing attempt established the Bulldogs' record and his average gain of 109.5 rushing yards per game is second only to the great Herschel Walker in Georgia history. --Measuring up: Gurley was unable to work out at the combine or his March 18 pro day, but in 2013 he ran on the indoor track at Georgia with a 120 meter hurdles best of 8.12 seconds. In the spring of 2014, scouts timed him in 4.52 seconds for 40 yards (1.56 for 10) and he added a 36.5-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot broad jump and benched 225 pounds 22 times. --Notable quote: "Just man up to my mistakes. I made a dumb mistake and I suffered the consequences. I had to move on from that, but just show them that I'm a great person at the end of the day." -- Gurley on how he responds when teams ask about his NCAA violation. --Frankly: Optimism aside, Gurley is a gamble. Odds are he will be physically good to go by the end of the year and probably should not play until 2016. That said, nothing is for sure. Willis McGahee, Frank Gore and Adrian Peterson each overcame one or more horrific knee injuries and went on to a productive, if not sensational, career. However, there is also Marcus Lattimore, a remarkable runner who had surgery on both knees at South Carolina, was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round in 2013, but never played a game in the NFL and retired last November.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
Gurley Makes RBs A First-round Commodity Again (4-6-15): http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/tsnform.aspx?c=sportsnetwork&page=nfl/writers/extrapoints/archive/extrapoints_040615.htm
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (1. Todd Gurley, Georgia: The Gurley conversation has centered on his knee, and rightfully so. Playing a position with a short expected NFL shelf life, Gurley will turn pro mere months removed from a major injury. Surely, teams took notice of Marcus Lattimore's recent retirement, three years after his own devastating knee injury. (A key date for Gurley comes later this month during medical rechecks in Indianapolis, where Gurley declined an exam from combine doctors.). Here's the thing, though: When healthy, Gurley could be as explosive and dominant as any college player in recent memory. There were a few games during his Georgia career—Doug Farrar recently tweeted his amazement over his performance against Clemson's stout defense—where Gurley was downright unstoppable. Playing at 6'1" and somewhere between 220 and 230 pounds, Gurley can plow through tackles but also has the speed to turn the corner and go the distance. If he can come all the way back from his injury, Gurley has the talent to join the rarified air of Le'Veon Bell, DeMarco Murray and other members of the league's upper echelon. Projection: Mid- to late first round) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
Baldinger: Todd Gurley most talented player in 2015 NFL Draft (4-2-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483102/article/baldinger-todd-gurley-most-talented-player-in-2015-nfl-draft
NFL scout: Gurley best running back in draft since Vikings' Peterson (4-2-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483229/article/scout-todd-gurley-best-rb-in-draft-since-adrian-peterson
'Todd Gurley bill' overwhelmingly passed by Georgia Senate (4-2-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483194/article/todd-gurley-bill-overwhelmingly-passed-by-georgia-senate
Five prospects worth trading up for (Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia: It's crazy to consider an injured prospect as one of the hottest commodities in the draft, but scouts universally view Gurley as a top-10 talent when healthy. Before tearing his ACL last November, the 6-1, 222-pound back thrashed SEC defenses with a rugged running style built on toughness and physicality. Gurley routinely ran through contact at the point of attack, yet displayed the speed, quickness and burst to blow by defenders on the second level. With Gurley also exhibiting exceptional balance and body control in the hole, several teams are salivating over the possibility of adding a Marshawn Lynch-like playmaker to the lineup. If Gurley gets a clean bill of health from the medical personnel at the NFL combine re-check in a few weeks, the ex-Georgia standout could come off the board sooner than expected in Round 1.) (3-30-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000482454/article/five-most-instinctive-linebackers-in-2015-nfl-draft
Five RB prospects with best game-breaking speed (1. Todd Gurley, Georgia: Power and size are the Gurley traits we think of first, but he's also proved to be fast enough to beat SEC defensive backs in footraces that start on his own half of the 50-yard line. At 232 pounds, he is as much of a big-play threat as any back in the draft. Gurley's explosiveness as a kickoff returner (11 career returns, 422 yards, 38.4 avg., 2 TDs) validate his speed as well. With a full ACL recovery and given a solid offensive line, he will be a big play waiting to happen as a rookie. NFL fit: San Diego Chargers. For a club nicknamed the Bolts, this backfield is severely lacking electricity. Gurley could not only take over the job, but help quarterback Philip Rivers in play-action as well.) (3-26-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481389/article/five-rb-prospects-with-best-gamebreaking-speed
Don't sleep on this star: Todd Gurley's NFL fits (3-26-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481638/article/todd-gurleys-nfl-fits-include-chargers-ravens-cowboys
Cowboys will host five of 2015 draft's best running backs for visits (the 5 RBs are Gurley, Gordon, Coleman, Ajayi and Abdullah) (3-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481528/article/todd-gurley-among-five-running-backs-to-visit-dallas-cowboys
Davis: Todd Gurley could have Odell Beckham Jr.-like impact (3-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000480985/article/davis-todd-gurley-could-have-odell-beckham-jrlike-in-2015
UGA's Gurley and Conley having different draft experiences (While most Georgia NFL draft prospects showed scouts why they should be drafted, Todd Gurley could only tell them. His knee injury in November still has him sidelined from football. “With my situation, I can't do the physical part,” Gurley said. “Good thing I got a little film to prove a little something. I'm just keeping them updated with my rehab and telling them what kind of person I am.” Gurley says he has had to defend his character as teams ask about his suspension for selling his autograph last season. “I made a dumb mistake, something I did my freshman and sophomore year. I should have never done it. I knew the rules. I still broke them. I'm definitely ready to move on and get on with my life. It's still going to be something that is brought up. It's something I learned from,” said Gurley.) (3-18-15): http://www.wrbl.com/story/28554828/ugas-gurley-and-conley-having-different-draft-experiences
Gurley says he has meeting set up with Panthers, who would seem to need a RB (3-18-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479759/article/georgias-todd-gurley-says-hell-meet-with-carolina-panthers
Zierlein's top 10 RB prospects (1. Todd Gurley, Georgia - Zierlein's bottom line: The rehab work and medical evaluations will be extremely important for Gurley's draft stock as teams assess his potential durability as an NFL running back. He played less than 40 percent of his team's offensive snaps over the last three years, so there is plenty of tread still on the tires. Has the talent to be a top-five NFL running back, but ACL tear clouds the short-term picture.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479538/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-running-backs
Davis: Gurley obvious choice for AFC West team, if he's available (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479645/article/davis-todd-gurley-obvious-choice-for-chargers-at-no-17
Detroit Lions hosting star Georgia RB Todd Gurley on pre-draft visit (3-16-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/03/detroit_lions_hosting_star_geo.html
Video - Pre-draft Visit: RB Todd Gurley (3-16-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Pre-draft-visit-RB-Todd-Gurley/841397fd-2923-42fc-82d1-737491b2987a
Video - 2015 Combine Sound: Todd Gurley (3-16-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/2015-Combine-Sound-Todd-Gurley/b4d4c656-564a-4002-9f0b-ef7d437eeb1e
Jeremiah: Lot of love around the NFL for RB Todd Gurley (3-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479400/article/jeremiah-lot-of-love-around-the-nfl-for-rb-todd-gurley
NFL Draft Top 50, Nos. 1-10: Winston flawed but ranks ahead of Mariota (10. Georgia RB Todd Gurley 6-1, 222: Yards-after-contact runner with all the hallmarks of the great backs: size, speed, shiftiness, determination and three-down ability to fit the modern game. Gurley churns his way through traffic, has subtle and deceptive moves and glides with ease in the open field. Will drop his shoulder and take on a defender and almost never seeks the sideline. A torn ACL in November could leave teams unsure where he's at physically in Year 1, and critics say that Gurley does have a bit of a monotone running style that could use a few more shades of gray. He also has a bad habit of running up into the backs of his blockers, but that can be corrected. Even if Gurley doesn't regain his top form immediately, he has the makings of a great NFL back capable of being a load-bearer and the kind of player defenses scheme to stop. NFL comparison: DeMarco Murray. Draft range: Top 40 pick.) (3-7-15): https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-draft-top-50--nos--1-10--winston-flawed-but-ahead-of-mariota-231136889.html
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Gurley's fumble rate is once in every 191.7 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
Davis: Eagles would be fortunate to land Gurley with 20th overall pick (Gurley is rehabbing from surgery to repair a torn ACL suffered in November, but he still is seen as a first-round pick by most analysts: Four NFL Media analysts -- Davis, as well as Bucky Brooks, Daniel Jeremiah and Lance Zierlein -- have Gurley going in the first round in their mock drafts. "To me, without the knee injury, there's no question in my mind that he's the No. 1 runner in the draft," Davis said of Gurley. So, what if Gurley were there when the Eagles make their first selection? "If (Kelly is) fortunate to get Todd Gurley from Georgia at 20 ... he fits everything that you're going to want," Davis said on Eisen's show. "A heavy, strong runner who can catch the ball out of the backfield and can make any play into a huge one.") (3-4-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000476405/article/davis-eagles-would-be-fortunate-to-get-todd-gurley-at-no-20
The NFL Draft’s 5 best Running Backs (3. Todd Gurley – Georgia: Had Gurley not torn an ACL, there is no question as to who the best back would be in this draft. Before he got hurt, Gurley showed that he was head and shoulders ahead of the rest of the class. He has both size and speed and top run instincts. He can run inside and out and run with power. Once in the open field, he is without question the toughest back in this class to bring down. As a receiver, he has great hands, can adjust to the ball, and consistently gets yards after the catch. He also is a very accomplished kick returner. Because of his injury, Gurley is a “wild card” pick. He wouldn’t let team physicians examine him, and because of that, no doctor outside of the one who performed his surgery has any idea as to the seriousness of the injury and how well the surgery was performed. Until those questions are answered, I have no idea where Gurley goes in this draft. There are many teams who are wondering if he will be able to play this year.) (3-3-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/the-nfl-drafts-5-best-running-backs
March madness: 10 burning pro day questions (Will Todd Gurley show scouts that he is healthy enough to play in 2015? Georgia pro day: March 18, OK, I'm kind of cheating here. Gurley, who suffered a torn ACL in November, isn't expected to do much of anything at Georgia's pro day -- but that doesn't mean he lacks a vital appointment in the coming weeks. Gurley wasn't able to take part in the athletic aspects of the combine, but he will return to Indianapolis for a medical recheck prior to the draft. That examination will be critical for his draft stock. Despite the injury, Gurley remains one of the most coveted prospects in the draft due to his exceptional combination of size, speed, vision and physicality. It is uncommon for a big back to display explosive pitter-pat in the hole while also flashing strong hands and superb ball skills. As a result, teams are willing to gamble on Gurley's talent and potential despite his lengthy recovery from a serious knee injury -- if he gets a positive review at the combine recheck. That could alleviate concerns about his availability in 2015.) (3-2-15): http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/0ap3000000475769/article/marcus-mariota-shane-ray-hit-center-stage-in-pro-day-season
NFL Draft film study: Todd Gurley, Georgia (3-1-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/03/01/todd-gurley-film-study/24213475/
RBs 2015 Combine Stock Report (Todd Gurley wasn't going to work out at the Combine because he's recently removed from his knee injury. However, his trip to Indianapolis was still extremely important for him because of the medical check. According to reports, Gurley is ahead of his recovery schedule, and multiple teams are all happy with his progress. Gurley would be a top-10 selection if he were healthy - probably slotted No. 6 overall to the Jets - but he may still go in the top half of the opening round.) (2-24-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015stockRB.php
21 prospect takeaways from Combine (Gurley needs a second look: A lot of people consider Georgia tailback Todd Gurley to be a potential All-Pro, but his ACL rehab remains a mystery and one reason why he's unlikely to go in the top half of the first round. He'll have to do a recheck later, but teams will not be sure what they're getting out of Gurley any time soon.) (2-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473788/article/21-prospect-takeaways-from-2015-nfl-scouting-combine
2015 Combine Notebook - Part 1 (Todd Gurley opts out of medical exam - I know for the fans, the purpose of the Combine is to see how their favorite players workout. Ask the 32 NFL clubs what the main purpose of the Combine is and they will tell you it is the medical exams. That was why the Combine was started back in 1985. The league could bring in 300+ players to one place and have all of those players go through a very thorough medical examination. If a player needed certain tests, MRI’s or X-Rays, he would only have to have those things done once instead of multiple times by visiting each team’s head quarters. This is the 31st Combine, and I have been involved with 29 of them as a member of a club. Until Thursday, I had never heard of a player opting out of his medical exam. It just doesn’t make sense. Georgia running back Todd Gurley became that first player. As you recall, Gurley suffered an ACL injury in November and had surgery shortly thereafter. It’d been roughly three months since that surgery, and I’m sure every teams’ medical staff wanted to know the result of the surgery. The reasons are simple. They want to know if it was a good, clean procedure, how the healing process went, and what the prognosis is for the future. By Gurley opting out of the medical exams, the doctors will know nothing about his surgery. The first thought will be “what is he hiding”? I have read statements like “he didn’t want all those doctors pulling at his knee just a few months after the surgery”. That’s nonsense, as a group the NFL team orthopedic surgeons are among the best in the world at what they do. They were not about to “damage” a surgically repaired knee. They wanted to examine it and get an MRI on it. The MRI can tell a lot as to how the knee has healed since surgery. The doctors can also compare that MRI to a follow-up MRI at the medical rechecks in April. This is all very important information a team needs before making a multi-million dollar investment in a player. For Gurley to opt out was just plain stupid! No matter who made the decision, Gurley himself or his agents, it was the wrong decision to make and will just raise a red flag for all teams interested.) (2-21-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-nfl-combine-notebook-part-i/
Gordon makes his case at the Combine (Gurley, who watched the on-field tests and drills in a sweat suit, had surgery in November to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. He participated in just one combine test – the bench press. He did 17 repetitions with 225 pounds. Gurley declined to let team doctors examine his knee on the advice of his doctor, a person with knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports. Gurley did undergo MRIs and will return to Indianapolis for a medical recheck before the April draft. Gurley and Gordon are the two running backs with first-round potential.) (2-21-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/02/21/analysis-melvin-gordon-makes-his-case-at-nfl-scouting-combine-running-backs/23803427/
Dr. James Andrew says knee ahead of schedule (2-21-15): http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/02/21/dr-james-andrews-says-todd-gurleys-knee-is-ahead-of-schedule/
RBs 2015 Combine Bench Press Analysis (Georgia running back Todd Gurley won't be running the 40-yard dash because of his ACL injury. Gurley did take part in the bench press and had 17 reps. It was moderately disappointing for Gurley (6-1, 222), but he also is focused on knee rehab, so he deserves some understanding on the bench press total.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchRB.php
2015 NFL Combine: Day 3 News and Notes (Georgia running back Todd Gurley will not let teams examine and evaluate his recently surgically repaired ACL. If this causes Gurley to drop out of the first round, he would only get a four year contract instead of a five year. This would allow him to enter the free agency market a year sooner due to the CBA rules.) (2-20-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-3-news-notes.html
2015 Combine: Patient Todd Gurley passes on full examination of knee (2-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25075477/combine-patient-todd-gurley-passes-on-medical-exam-of-knee
Gurley on autograph scandal: I made a dumb mistake (2-20-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/20/todd-gurley-autograph-suspension-georgia-nfl-combine
Video - 2015 Combine Sound: Todd Gurley (2-19-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/2015-Combine-Sound-Todd-Gurley/b4d4c656-564a-4002-9f0b-ef7d437eeb1e
Gurley's best case scenario for return could be rookie mini-camp (2-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000472056/article/todd-gurleys-knee-rehabilitation-to-take-six-to-nine-months
2015 NFL Combine: Five things to know (Georgia RB Todd Gurley won't run in Indianapolis and won't be ready for Georgia's pro day either, but it's still a busy week for him with 24 meetings already set up, he said Thursday. Gurley tore his ACL in November and isn't expected to return to field form until the summer. "It feels great," Gurley responded when asked about his injury. "I'm taking it day-by-day, doing some light jogging." Gurley said he lost his post-surgery limp and is starting to do lateral agility drills. Despite the injury, he hasn't lost his confidence, saying he has anger to take out once he returns to the field. Gurley also doesn't regret returning to the field after his four-game suspension for accepting money for autographs. "I'm a strong-minded person," Gurley said. "I came back because I love football. I manned up to my mistakes, suffered the consequences. Teams know I'm a great person at the end of the day.") (2-19-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25074274/nfl-combine-five-things-to-know-dgb-passes-the-eye-test
2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Takeaways from Day 2 (Gurley not expecting a Peterson-like recovery. Todd Gurley appears to be on track with his recovery from an ACL tear he suffered last year, but is not expecting a miracle when it comes to racing back. "I'm not Adrian Peterson. That guy is a freak of nature," Gurley said. Gurley was asked about how he will explain his four-game suspension last season for profiting from autographed memorabilia when he interviews with NFL clubs this week. He pointed a thumb rather than a finger.) (2-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000471879/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-prospect-takeaways-from-day-2
Could the Lions be looking to drafting a RB? (Georgia’s Todd Gurley might be drafted higher than Gordon but also is recovering from an injury. Gurley tore his ACL back in November and has just started light jogging; he likely will not be available for Georgia’s pro day. Gurley declared that he wanted to be taken first overall at the Combine but then again who doesn’t? While it is not known if Gurley is scheduled to meet with the Lions, he said he has 24 interviews lined up in the next couple days so odds are very good. Gurley, if not injured would likely be taken higher than Gordon but considering the Bulldog rusher has had 2 major injuries in the previous two seasons, it’s anybody’s guess.) (2-19-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/02/19/could-the-lions-be-looking-to-draft-a-rb/
2015 NFL Combine: RB Weigh-In Analysis (Georgia running back Todd Gurley is another back who passed the eyeball test. Gurley (6-1, 221) had 10-inch hands, and he won't work out at the Combine as he rehabs from his mid-season ACL tear. A source said that weighed more in the past, so it looks like he has dropped some weight during rehab. If Gurley had stayed healthy, he'd be in the discussion as a top-10 pick.) (2-19-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015weighinRB.php
NFL Draft Combine: Five Prospects to watch (RB Todd Gurley, Georgia: No running back has gone in the first round of the draft since 2012, when Trent Richardson went third overall (how'd that work out?), but this could be the year that streak ends. It is a deep class of talented runners, led by Gurley and Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon. Gurley was the best running back in college football until he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament, and all eyes will be on his medical reports this week.) (2-13-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/02/14/nfl-scouting-combine/23414139/
Combine prospects with the most to gain or lose (Gurley is a special talent and should snap the two-year drought of first-round running backs, but his draft projection is up in the air after his ACL tear in November. Nonetheless, as long as his rehab proves to be on track when trainers examine his knee in Indianapolis, Gurley should still hear his name in the top 32 picks and be ready for game action in August.) (2-12-15); http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25067278/nfl-combine-prospects-with-the-most-to-gain-or-lose
2015 Combine Preview: Running back (Best trait: Versatility – Gurley is a rare blend of both speed and power. He can break arm tackles and also take it to the house. This past season 61.9 percent of his yards came after contact, according to NFL.com. Concern: Injuries – He missed three games in 2013 (ankle) and tore his ACL this past season. Will he be the same runner he was at Georgia once he's back from the ACL injury? The skinny: A very talented runner who will have to pass all the medical evaluations at the Combine. He’s got all the talent in the world, but there are some concerns about his health.) (2-10-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/2015-Combine-Preview-Running-back/850078f5-6a7c-4022-9317-650198604ace
NFL Scouting Combine: Under the radar storylines to watch (RB Todd Gurley, Georgia: Gurley, who had been considered the top running back in the nation, suffered a torn ACL in mid-November and missed the Bulldogs' final three games.) (2-6-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000469174/article/nfl-scouting-combine-undertheradar-storylines-to-watch
Todd Gurley vs. Melvin Gordon: 2015 NFL Draft comparison (2-9-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-02-09/nfl-draft-2015-melvin-gordon-todd-gurley-scouting-reports-comparisons-running-backs-injuries
Gordon or Gurley? LT reveals his pick (He thinks Gordon will go first because of Gurley's knee injury. Gurley, too, was in contention for the Heisman early in the season before a suspension -- initiated by Georgia but lengthened by the NCAA -- cost him four games and derailed his Heisman campaign. In the game he returned to action, Nov. 15 against Auburn, he tore the ACL in his left knee and has been rehabilitating ever since. "If it hadn't been for that injury, those guys would be neck and neck for the No. 1 running back coming off the board," Tomlinson added. "Todd Gurley, with the size he possesses, the athletic ability, the guy returns kicks -- are you kidding me? He's a phenomenal player. (If he returns healthy) he is going to be a steal.")
(1-28-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000464806/article/ladainian-tomlinson-melvin-gordon-to-be-first-back-drafted
Kiper: Gurley, Gordon could make sense for Lions (1-23-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/01/mel_kiper_todd_gurley_melvin_g.html
Devaluing of RBs greatest threat to Todd Gurley's draft stock (12-3-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000438189/article/devaluing-of-rbs-greatest-threat-to-todd-gurleys-draft-stock
Gurley has knee surgery (11-26-14): http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/11884316/todd-gurley-hurts-knee-return-georgia-bulldogs
Is Gurley still a first round pick after injury (11-20-14): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2014/11/is_todd_gurley_still_a_first-r.html
Week 12 Stock Report (After serving a four game suspension, Georgia junior RB Todd Gurley returned to the field on Saturday. But in an unfortunate turn of events, the Bulldogs' back tore his ACL late in the game, ending his season and likely his collegiate career. Gurley was projected as a first round prospect and one of the top draft-eligible talents in the country, but the injury now clouds his future. While not quite the same situation as Marcus Lattimore a few years ago, Gurley will almost certainly fall on draft weekend, but how far? Second round? Third round? Only time will tell, but as long as his rehab over the next few months go wel, I'll bet he's still a top-100 pick.) (11-18-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24818692/nfl-draft-week-12-stock-report
Gurley hurt knee in return (11-16-14): http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/11884316/todd-gurley-hurts-knee-return-georgia-bulldogs
Gurley suspended 4 games by NCAA (10-29-14): http://sports.yahoo.com/news/georgias-todd-gurley-suspended-4-133220180--ncaaf.html
Five RB prospects to keep an eye on (I think Gurley is a first-round back. Gordon, who, like Gurley, will have eligibility remaining after this season, is pressing to be a first-rounder. Of course, Gurley has been suspended indefinitely as an investigation into signed memorabilia continues, but that only becomes a concern for NFL teams if they discover a pattern of issues with Gurley when doing their due diligence. In fact, sitting out is probably better for Gurley and his pro situation because he'll take fewer hits; scouts have already seen all they need to see to evaluate his on-field ability.) (10-14-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000410978/article/todd-gurley-puts-nfl-drafts-firstround-rb-drought-in-jeopardy
Gurley suspended indefinitely after alleged rules violation (10-14-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000408153/article/todd-gurley-suspended-indefinitely-after-alleged-rules-violation
Week 5 Stock Report (It was another dominant performance for Georgia RB Todd Gurley, who rushed for a career-best 208 yards and tied for the team-high in catches with four. He average 7.4 yards on the ground and had two touchdowns, including a 51-yard scamper down the middle of the field. There simply aren't many holes in this prospect, and as long as he stays healthy, Gurley is destined for the first round next spring.) (9-30-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24731545/nfl-draft-week-five-stock-report
Week 1 Risers and Sliders (Todd Gurley was dominant on Saturday for Georgia, finishing with 198-yards rushing and returning a kick 100-yards for a score. It was an impressive performance for the junior, though Clemson’s porous defense made it a bit easier. Word from sources in Athens is this will be Gurley’s final season playing college ball.) (9-1-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9996
2015 NFL Draft: Georgia Preview (With the NFL increasingly favoring the running back-by-committee approach, some have theorized that the days of runners earning first round selections has passed; certainly the fact that no backs have earned a top 32 pick the past two years provides evidence of this. It is worth noting, however, that there hasn't been a back with Gurley's talent available the past two years. Boasting a combination of power, balance and underrated agility that helped Marshawn Lynch Beast-Mode his Seattle Seahawks to their first title, Gurley has dominated the SEC the past two seasons, rushing for a combined 2,374 yards and 27 touchdowns, while chipping in another 558 yards and five scores (all last year) as a receiver. Like Lynch, Gurley is best known for simply bowling over defenders, but each back's success is also a testament to good vision, surprisingly light feet and balance to bounce off would-be tacklers. Gurley accelerates quickly when he has an opening, ruining angles from oncoming defenders and frequently grinding extra yardage after contact by falling forward. Gurley has soft, natural hands out of the backfield and is a willing, cognizant blocker in pass protection. Like most backs in the highly physical SEC, the concern with Gurley will almost surely be the punishment he's absorbed at the collegiate level. Gurley missed all of the Tennessee, Missouri and Vanderbilt games a year ago after sustaining an ankle injury against LSU and must remain healthy as a junior to earn the high selection his talent warrants. Accomplishing this will be even more difficult now that defenses can focus on stopping him with Murray now in the NFL.) (8-24-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24660625/nfl-draft-georgia-preview
RB David Johnson:
Scouting Reports:
Northern Iowa Profile Page: http://www.unipanthers.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=26200&ATCLID=205206017
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/david-johnson?id=2552377
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1137327/david-johnson
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=109078&draftyear=2015&genpos=RB
Articles:
Unsung draft prospects lead All-Underrated Team (Running Back: David Johnson, Northern Iowa: Johnson is a very interesting player. At 6'1" and 224 pounds, he doesn't fit the modern running back prototype, and he might be seen as more of an H-back prospect. The Northern Iowa product runs with surprising speed and agility, and he can add estimable receiving skills to his palette. Johnson washed away a lot of strength of competition concerns with a great week at the Senior Bowl, and he blew it up at the combine with a 4.5 40-yard dash and a 41.5-inch vertical jump. Ideally, he'll be drafted by a team with a creative offensive coordinator who realizes his multi-positional potential.) (4-28-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/28/2015-NFL-draft-underrated-prospects-garrett-grayson-david-johnson
NFP Prospect Focus: David Johnson and John Crockett (David Johnson – RB – Northern Iowa: Johnson is fifth year senior and a very productive two and a half year starter at Northern Iowa. He ran for over 1000 yards in each of his last three seasons including 1,286 yards in 2013 and 1,553 in 2014. He also had 76 receptions for 929 yards and 4 touchdowns over the last two seasons. At 6’1 – 224, Johnson has excellent running back size to go along with top athleticism. At the Combine, he had one of the better overall workouts in the running back group. He ran the 40 in 4.50, had a 41” vertical jump, a 10’7” standing long jump and shuttle times of 4.13 and 7.09. He also did 25 reps in the bench which is equivalent to a 400 pound bench press. As a runner, Johnson can be a bit upright, but he has good vision and instincts and can be creative. He does a good job setting up and following blocks. He runs behind his pads and shows power. He consistently gets yards after contact. He has burst to turn the corner and get outside, and when in space, he can make a defender miss. He is excellent as a receiver with soft hands and top ability to adjust to the ball in the air. He consistently gets yards after the catch with his run skills. Like most college backs, he will need to improve his pass blocking but showed at the Senior Bowl that he can get this done. Overall, I see Johnson as a back who will be a role player early on and eventually be a consistent rotational type back. He can also be used as a kickoff return man. He may never be the “bell cow”, but most teams will be very happy to have him.) (4-21-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-david-johnson-and-john-crockett/
2014 NFL Draft: DT Grady Jarrett headlines my Better-Than Team (David Johnson, RB, Northern Iowa: The coaches I talked with at the combine raved about him, and now I know why. He is a complete back. He can run it, catch it and he's a willing blocker. He doesn't have great speed, but he ran 4.50, which is good enough.) (4-16-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/pete-prisco/25151739/nfl-draft-smallish-dt-grady-jarrett-headlines-my-better-than-team
2015 NFL Draft positional overviews: Running backs (Top small-school prospect: Northern Iowa's David Johnson. Johnson was a three-year starter for the FCS-level Panthers after being a part-time starter as a redshirt freshman in 2011. Johnson (6-1, 224) has a nice size/speed combo (4.5 in the 40) and ran for 4,687 yards and 49 TDs in his career. He also is a good receiver, finishing with 141 receptions and 14 TDs. He could go in the second round and seems likely to be off the board by the end of the third round. Keep an eye on Southern Illinois' Malcolm Agnew, who spent his first two seasons at Oregon State; he is another FCS player who is a solid prospect.) (4-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485602/article/2015-nfl-draft-the-skinny-on-this-years-running-backs
2015 NFL Draft: Rang's Diamonds in the Rough (David Johnson, Northern Iowa, 6-1, 224, 4.50:South Alabama's Bridge played his collegiate ball just outside of Mobile, Ala. -- where Johnson truly caught the attention of NFL scouts, showing the combination of power, burst, balance, vision and hands out of the backfield at the Senior Bowl to prove that his string of three consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons at UNI were no fluke. Johnson's receiving skills are perhaps his most intriguing asset, as he shows terrific hand-eye coordination, focus and flexibility to easily catch passes away from his body and quickly turn upfield. In a terrific class of running backs, Johnson remains relatively anonymous among fans but his ability to play on all three downs should earn him a mid-round selection and early playing time.) (4-13-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25147084/nfl-draft-rangs-diamonds-in-the-rough
Looking at running back prospects for Detroit Lions in 2015 draft (David Johnson, Northern Iowa (6-2, 224): Had an excellent combine, listing among the top running back performers in almost every category. He gained 1,553 yards with 17 touchdowns and also caught 39 passes last season. He's the No. 8 running back and No. 96 overall player in the class, meaning he could be a third round pick for the Lions. He rates above average in almost every are on his scouting profile and could fit as a smart complement to Joique Bell.) (4-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16480/looking-at-running-back-prospects-for-the-detroit-lions-in-the-2015-draft?ex_cid=espnapi_public
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (7/65. David Johnson, Northern Iowa, 6-1, 224, 4.40, 2-3: --First drafted UNI RB since?: Johnson is the only running back in school history to rush for more than 1,000 yards in each of three seasons (after rushing 822 yards as freshman). And NFL scouts appreciate even more that he is only the third UNI athlete to gain at least 1,000 yards rushing and another 1,000 yards receiving during a career. A strong, cut-and-go runner with a heavy stiff-arm, Johnson rushed 4,687 yards on 866 carries (5.41 average) with 49 scores, and caught 141 tosses for 1,734 yards (12.3 average) and 13 more touchdowns. And, to answer the initial question, he will be the first Northern Iowa running back to be drafted since 1966, when Randy Schultz was taken by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round, which was still No. 75 overall back then. To best Schultz's NFL career, Johnson will need to last more than three years or gain more than 301 yards rushing. --Measuring up: Johnson is exactly 6-feet-5/8th of an inch and a muscular-looking 224 pounds. At the combine, he ran 40 yards in 4.50 seconds (10 in 1.57). He demonstrated why his straight-arm is a weapon by benching 225 pounds 25 times and showed great explosion with a 41.5-inch vertical jump. His quickness and agility were better than expected with a short shuttle time of 4.27 seconds and a three-cone of 6.82 seconds. --Notable quote: "I was probably a late bloomer because of my height. I was tall and lanky. I was 190 with clothes on. I wasn't the biggest back coming out. I was able to catch. And with me playing receiver in high school, a lot of teams were projecting me to play receiver." - Johnson explaining why only two schools offered him a scholarship as a running back (the other was Illinois State). --Frankly: He isn't always a pretty sight to see running, but Johnson is a tough, no-nonsense hombre who is compared to Matt Forte in terms of his ability as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. The medics should check how much tread he has left after being battered like an off-road SUV four years at UNI.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
2015 NFL Draft: Top five pass-catching running back prospects (4. David Johnson, Northern Iowa: Who better than a former wide receiver to throw to out of the backfield? Johnson broke several school receiving records in high school, but quickly outgrew the position and is now a 225-pound rusher whose hands are as soft as any back in the draft. Johnson impressed NFL coaches and scouts at the Senior Bowl in January with his ability to catch the ball. Look for Johnson to be picked in the middle rounds, ahead of bigger names from bigger schools. NFL fit: San Diego Chargers. There is a reasonable chance the Chargers address the running back position in the first round with Todd Gurley or Melvin Gordon. If they don't, watch for Johnson as a strong value pick later in the draft.) (4-8-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484193/article/2015-nfl-draft-top-five-passcatching-rb-prospects
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (9. David Johnson, Northern Iowa: Johnson excelled all week at a competitive Senior Bowl, then capped it off by totaling 141 yards in the game (82 on kick returns). At 6'1" and 224 pounds, with 4.5 40 speed, Johnson combines durability and athleticism into a package that could catapult him up a draft board or two. If he starts using that 224-pound build to become more of a hammer, both as a runner and in pass protection, it would not be a stretch to see him leading an NFL running game within the next couple of seasons. Projection: Early to mid-fourth round.) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
2015 NFL Draft: This Week In Pro Days (Northern Iowa RB David Johnson continues to see his stock rise, this time with his pass catching ability. Johnson stood on his combine numbers and only did the position work. Johnson is creeping towards the second round, and could be the third running back selected, behind Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley.) (3-27-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-this-week-in-pro-days-3.html
What we learned from Tuesday's pro days (Johnson impressed many in attendance with his movement skills during a variety of running and pass-catching drills. He stood on his numbers from the combine and elected to do only position work.) (3-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481228/article/state-of-iowa-takes-center-stage-jaxon-shipley-emerges-at-pro-day
Zierlein's top 10 RB prospects (8. David Johnson, Northern Iowa - Zierlein's bottom line: Johnson lacks the short-area quickness to be a consistently effective every-down running back, but he has good size, speed and hands so he can't just be dismissed. He doesn't run routes well enough and isn't sudden enough to be a wide receiver, so he might have to be a third-down back with kick-return potential.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479538/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-running-backs
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (David Johnson's fumble rate is once in every 77.5 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
Top Combine Performers at Lions position of need (David Johnson, 6-1, 224, Northern Iowa: Johnson had a good combine posting a 40 at 4.5 seconds and benching 225 pounds 25 times. He finished in the top five among running backs in the 40, bench press, vertical and broad jump.) (2-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473997/article/marcus-peters-paul-dawson-among-combine-duds-with-promise
RBs 2015 Combine Stock Report (David Johnson had an excellent Senior Bowl, and he continued his positive momentum in Indianapolis with a strong showing at the Combine. Johnson ran a 4.50 in the 40-yard dash, and while that doesn't exactly seem very impressive, it must be considered that he did so at 6-1, 224. Also, his 10-yard split (1.57) was the second-fastest behind Jeremy Langford at his position. Johnson then performed well in the field drills, particularly in terms of catching the football. He could sneak into Round 2.) (2-24-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015stockRB.php
2015 NFL Combine: 25 Takeaways (5 most intriguing players - David Johnson, RB, Northern Iowa: Johnson followed up a sterling week at the Senior Bowl by finishing among this year's most explosive running backs in several drills, including the 40-yard dash (4.50 seconds) and vertical jump (41.5") at 6-1, 224 pounds. A former wide receiver, Johnson also may be the draft's most reliable pass-catcher among running backs.) (2-23-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25079684/nfl-combine-25-takeaways-include-risersfallerspro-days
10 prospects who helped themselves at the Combine (David Johnson - What he proved: Johnson's stock continues to rise. He followed up a strong week of practice at the Senior Bowl with an equally impressive combine. He ranked in the top five at his position in the 40 (4.50 seconds), bench press (25 reps), vertical leap (41.5), broad jump (127 inches) and three-cone drill. Already viewed as an exceptional receiver out of the backfield, he solidified his status as a Day 2 choice by showcasing his athleticism.) (2-23-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/02/10_prospects_who_helped_their.html#8
Combine Notebook Part II (David Johnson – The Northern Iowa running back really helped himself. At 6’1 – 224, he ran 4.50, did 25 reps and jumped out of the building with a 41.5″ vertical. His 6.82 3-cone was also very good. You can bet a number of running back coaches will be off to Northern Iowa over the next five to six weeks.) (2-22-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-nfl-combine-notebook-part-ii/
Combine Musings (One player who seems to be gaining some traction is Northern Iowa running back David Johnson. I talked with several coaches and personnel men who mentioned him before he worked out. Then he went out and had a heck of a day in his workout Saturday. He is 6-1, 224 pounds and he ran a 4.50 40. He is also a capable receiver. So while Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley are getting a lot of the early hype, keep an eye on this runner.) (2-22-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/pete-prisco/25078215/combine-musings-winston-goes-no-1-would-eagles-move-up-for-mariota
Lions Combine Gleanings (Northern Iowa’s David Johnson has a lot of similarities to Joique Bell: small school, consistent production as both a runner and receiver in college, impressive Senior Bowl, well-liked personality. Johnson has had a better Combine, however. At 6′ and a solid 224 pounds, Johnson ran consecutive 4.5 40s with a great 1.58 10-yard split and put up 25 reps on the bench. Legit 2nd round option.) (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/02/lions-combine-gleanings/
2015 Combine: Day 4 (Northern Iowa’s David Johnson measured in at 6’1 and 224 pounds and then ran back to back 4.50s. After solid Senior Bowl and combine performances, Johnson could hear his name called on Day 2.) (2-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-4-news-notes.html
RBs 2015 Combine Field Drill Recaps (One of the most impressive backs at the Senior Bowl was Northern Iowa's David Johnson. His Combine continued his excellent postseason. Johnson (6-1, 224) did well in the bench press on Friday before looking good on the field a day later. He ran the 40 in an impressive time of 4.50, unofficially. He also caught the ball well in receiving drills. Johnson looks like he could be a mid-round steal.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutRB.php
RBs 2015 Combine Bench Press Analysis (One power back who was a standout of the Senior Bowl and didn't disappoint was Northern Iowa's David Johnson. Johnson (6-1, 224) ripped off 25 reps and that illustrates his power. Don't be surprised if Johnson ends up being this year's Alfred Morris or Zac Stacy.) (2-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchRB.php
Mayock sounds off on 21 prospects prior to the Combine (On Northern Iowa RB David Johnson: "Intriguing kid, tremendous size at running back, combined with an ability to catch the football. ... My one nitpick with him would be given his size at 225, 230 pounds, I'd like him to be more consistently physical instead of just kind of bracing for contact. I'd like to see him embrace contact. I'd like to see him be more physical and finish. But I think at this point I've got a third-round grade on him, and he could go even higher." Combine workout day: Saturday.) (2-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470842/article/mike-mayock-nebraskas-randy-gregory-needs-to-add-weight
Small school players look to raise profile at combine (Johnson is the only player in school history to gain over 1,000 yards three straight seasons in a row, and he really impressed at the Senior Bowl as a power runner and receiver out of the backfield. If he can continue to live up to his physical characteristic, the 6'1", 224-pound Johnson, who's currently a mid-round prospect based on production and potential, could get a lot of draft traction as a running back/H-back at the next level.) (2-16-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/16/nfl-combine-small-school-players-shane-carden-david-johnson-lynden-trail
3 to watch at Combine: RBs (Johnson has a good build at 6-foot-1, 229 pounds and runs with ferocity when going north-south. But where he excels is coming out of the backfield. He can run routes to the intermediate levels and has shown excellent hands. The closest thing the Lions have to Joique Bell insurance is George Winn and Johnson's size and skill set would allow him to better fill that role.) (2-13-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/02/3_to_watch_at_combine_running.html
Debate: Which under-the-radar player created most buzz at Senior Bowl? (Northern Iowa running back David Johnson turned plenty of scouting heads during the practice week with an outstanding combination of vision and power. A panel of scouts also named Johnson as the Senior Bowl's top back during the practice week. He supported that decision in the game, rushing 10 times for 43 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown and a 16-yard reception. He needs to learn to run behind his pads better -- his upright style makes him too easy a target for defenders -- but no small-school player helped himself more in Mobile.)(1-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000463559/article/which-undertheradar-player-created-most-buzz-at-senior-bowl
Recapping the best and worst of Senior Bowl week (David Johnson made the all-pro Senior Bowl Team. (Cobb and Johnson were examples 1 and 1a this week of why it might be tough for teams to pull the trigger on a running back early. At 220-plus pounds, both guys are built to withstand an NFL workload and showed off versatility out of the backfield. Late in the fourth quarter, Johnson pinballed his way to a long kick return, then caught a pass out of the backfield for a nice gain.) (1-24-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/01/24/senior-bowl-recap
2015 Senior Bowl Stock Report: Ten who stood out in mobile (While Abdullah may have been the flashiest back, the most impressive overall was Johnson, whose combination of size, sharp-cutting and terrific hands out of the backfield made him a mismatch in the running and receiving game. The vision, balance and determination Johnson demonstrated in the 19-yard touchdown to spark the game's scoring ranks among the most impressive individual plays.)(1-24-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24989754/senior-bowl-stock-report-ten-who-stood-out-in-mobile
Senior Bowl: NFL prospects who helped, hurt their draft stock in Mobile (One small-school prospect who flashed all week was Johnson. Johnson, whose 6-foot-1, 224-pound frame resembles Darren McFadden, is an upright runner and put his patience and burst on display. Winning the most outstanding running back award over notable players like Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah and Michigan State's Jeremy Langford speaks for itself. Johnson coupled his strong week with a very solid performance in the game, including an impressive 19-yard touchdown run.)(1-24-15): http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/senior-bowl-which-nfl-prospects-made-the-most-of-their-time-in-mobile-012415
Senior Bowl Review: Offense (David Johnson, Northern Iowa - I know Johnson had a great game performance, exhibiting patience and vision along the sideline to read blocks. I am much more sold on his receiving and in space ability than instincts behind coupled with fluidity behind the line of scrimmage. Yes, I know his run in the actual game counters that. That same cut he made was successful on this occurrence, but I am not sold it will more than it won’t. We project position switches more often than they actually happen, however, I could see Johnson thriving as an H-back or passing down specialist.)(1-24-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51877/351/senior-bowl-review-offense
2015 Senior Bowl: 10 prospects who helped themselves (Looking like a linebacker during the weigh-ins, Johnson was another small school player who immediately proved that he belonged, especially as pass catcher out of the backfield. He doesn't have the traditional frame for the position and might be best suited as a hybrid H-back role, utilizing his ability as a receiver and blocker in pass pro. But regardless, he's a versatile prospect teams would love to add to the depth chart.) (1-23-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/24986379/senior-bowl-10-prospects-who-helped-themselves
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Thursday South Practice Notes (Northern Iowa running back David Johnson had a good showing. He’s not a shifty back, so his carries might be limited at the next level. But, he’s strong and a great third down player. He is a weapon for an offense and compares favorably to Miami Dolphins hybrid TE/H-Back Charles Clay, who ran the ball at Tulsa but excelled as a pass catcher.)(1-22-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-thursday-south-practice-notes.html
2015 Senior Bowl Thursday's South Practice Report (Northern Iowa running back David Johnson helped himself in Mobile. He finished the week with a good practice on Thursday. In the red zone scrimmage, Johnson charged hard up the middle a few times to score some touchdown runs. He followed his blocks well while working his way through the defense. Johnson looks like he could be a physical back and a mid-round steal.)(1-22-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice7.php
Optimum Scouting's 2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Wednesday South Practice Notes (Northern Iowa running back David Johnson is a tough runner downfield, but he is incredibly stiff laterally. His hips have no give to them at all, and his jukes are more like jokes. The positive for Johnson is that he has terrific receiving ability and is a functional pass blocker.) (1-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-wednesday-south-practice-notes.html
Senior Bowl: Wednesday South Notes (RB David Johnson is helping himself here. He displayed great vision to bounce a run outside and continues to excel in the passing game. One thing which stood out: he was coached up about shortening his sidestep and keeping his eyes up doing an agility drill. On the very next rep he did both and received heaping praise from the Jaguars coaching staff.)(1-21-15):http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2591/Senior-Bowl-Wed-South-Notes
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Tuesday North Practice Notes (Northern Iowa’s David Johnson continued to display the third down skills to be an immediate impact, as both a blocker and pass catcher. He was the most polished pass protector among South running backs, understanding how to set his base, take away the rusher’s angle and deliver a punch. Johnson runs smoothly for a 6’0, 224 lbs. ball carrier and is one of the better backs here at the Senior Bowl.) (1-20-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-tuesday-south-practice-notes.html
2015 Senior Bowl: Sammie Coates steals show during South team weigh-in (Northern Iowa RB David Johnson looked like a linebacker during his weigh-ins with a tall (6-0 (3/4”) tapered frame with good length (31 3/8”) and hand size (9 5/8”). As a productive pass catcher, Johnson is a candidate to play a hybrid H-back role at the next level.)(1-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24980468/senior-bowl-sammie-coates-steals-show-during-south-team-weigh-in
Mayhew eager to see Senior Bowl stars; 5 prospects to watch (Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah is the top name among running backs in Mobile, but Johnson could be a sneaky pick for a Lions team in need of a long-term solution at running back. He has great size at 6-1, 215 pounds but is agile and can hurt teams out of the backfield. He had 1,625 rushing yards, 536 receiving yards and 20 total touchdowns in 2014 and has a chance this week to prove he can hang with top-tier talent.) (1-20-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/01/19/lions-gm-mayhew-gets-ready-gauge-senior-bowl-stars/22029643/
2015 Senior Bowl Preview (Northern Iowa’s David Johnson is inline for a bit of a position switch, as he is potentially the best receiving back in this class. His body control to adjust to catches is receiver-esque. A team projecting Johnson as an H-back might be his best fit.)(1-19-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51714/351/2015-senior-bowl-preview
Senior Bowl South Team Diary: RB David Johnson sees week as chance to learn, show off skills (1-19-15): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2015/01/senior_bowl_south_team_diary_n.html
2015 Senior Bowl: 10 offensive prospects to watch (Johnson is a stout runner with strong, decisive strides as an athlete, forcing defenders to bring their big boy pants to bring him down. But where he really shines is as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, using his focus and open field vision to be a threat on third down. Johnson projects as a bigger version of Charles Sims, who was a Senior Bowl standout last year.)(1-18-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/24975640/senior-bowl-10-offensive-prospects-to-watch
2015 Senior Bowl: South Offense Scouting Preview (One of the best pass-catching running backs in the 2015 class, David Johnson boasts ideal size, NFL-ready pass-catching ability and route development, and a power-burst combination as a runner that should allow him to have a very intriguing week. If he leaves the Senior Bowl showing he can thrive in both areas, he could emerge as a safe running back option for teams to consider in the latter part of the top-100 overall picks.)(1-17-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-south-offense-scouting-preview.html
Mayock: Northern Iowa's David Johnson similar to Charles Sims (12-19-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000446050/article/mayock-northern-iowas-david-johnson-similar-to-charles-sims
Meet the Prospect: RB David Johnson (11-19-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24820807/meet-the-prospect-northern-iowa-rb-david-johnson
Week 11 risers and sliders (Each week I highlight a small school prospect that’s creating a buzz in the scouting world. Northern Iowa running back David Johnson has been purposely left out as he’s a big named player from a small school who entered the season well known. That doesn’t means he’s not creating a buzz. I’m told Johnson, who helped the Panthers snap North Dakota State’s consecutive win streak at 33 this weekend with a 23-3 victory (138-yards rushing on 28 carries), has been receiving grades which range between the second-to-fourth round. Teams love his size, speed and strength and feel Johnson could develop into a feature runner for the next level.) (11-10-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10166
2015 NFL Draft: Week One Stock Report (Northern Iowa RB David Johnson (6-1 | 215 | 4.57) didn't have a 100-yard rushing game against Iowa, managing only 34 yards on the ground for a 2.6 average, but he did finish with an astounding 203 yards receiving on only five receptions, recording catches of 53, 60 and 70 yards.) (9-2-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24691476/nfl-draft-week-one-stock-report
RB Duke Johnson:
Scouting Reports:
Miami Profile page: http://www.hurricanesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205558729
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/duke-johnson?id=2552461
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1998316/duke-johnson
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=123705&draftyear=2015&genpos=RB
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2015dukejohnson.php
2015 NFL Draft Profile: Duke Johnson: http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/1/20/7558275/2015-nfl-draft-profile-duke-johnson
NFL Draft Preview 2015: RB Duke Johnson: http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfl-draft-preview-2015-rb-duke-johnson/
Detroit Lions 2015 NFL draft prospect: Miami running back Duke Johnson: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_2015_nfl_draft_p_18.html
Articles:
Previewing the NFL draft's RB prospects (Duke Johnson, Miami (Fla.) (Height: 5-9 Weight: 207): Scouting report: He capped a productive career at Miami, in which he became the school's all-time leading rusher, with more than 1,600 rushing yards last fall as he rebounded from a season-ending ankle injury in 2013. Johnson's strength is in his outside running, and he has added value because he is an experienced kick returner. Insider's take: "Duke can run outside, he's got that burst. He can catch the ball. A heck of a player." — Kiper. Projected round: Second/third.) (4-29-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/29/running-back-prospects-melvin-gordon-wisconsin-todd-gurley/26578901/
Injury Analysis for 2015 Draft (Duke Johnson, Miami: Injury History - Duke Johnson had a tough time in 2013 missing time with a concussion and then ultimately fracturing his ankle which ended his season and required surgery. He then went on to re-injure the same ankle in the last game of 2014 in which he had to be carted off the field. Analysis - The injury concerns around Johnson are legitimate. The ankle injury is more than likely going to crop up this season.) (4-28-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/53796/468/injury-analysis-for-2015-draft
Duke Johnson rewrote history at Miami, plans to do the same in NFL (4-23-15): http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/duke-johnson-rewrote-history-at-miami-plans-to-do-the-same-nfl-042315
Draft Prospecting: Miami Hurricanes (Duke Johnson--the natural comparison when first watching Duke Johnson is that he is the type of running back everyone desperately wanted Reggie Bush to become in the NFL. They are very similar in both build (though Bush is taller), quickness and speed. The rare agility, the ankle-breaking ability to cut and then explode, even the soft hands and excellent work on screens and flares as a receiver, they all echo the former USC star. The trick for Johnson will be to avoid the pitfalls which have continually dogged Bush as a pro. The fumbles. The incessant dancing instead of just getting the ball and attacking the hole. The alligator arms when covered tightly. The litany of nagging injuries and the unwillingness to soldier through them all the time. The running away from contact at the end of runs instead of lowering the shoulder and fighting for extra yardage. None of those are readily evident in Johnson’s game, but there are hints from time to time. Scary hints. Bush went #2 overall because he masked those negative traits with so many explosive, impressive plays. Johnson has all of those too. He is exceptional at narrowing himself through small creases and exploding out the other side, and once he gets daylight there are few--if any--better at turning a 4-yard gain into a 40-yarder. He’s shown decisiveness and good judgment in attacking holes. He’s shown toughness as a receiver, able to pluck awkward throws and instantly transition from receiver to runner. He’s one of the most exciting players in the last handful of drafts to watch. Again, Reggie Bush was once that guy too. As long as Johnson continues to be the explosive, engaged dynamo we’ve seen during his Miami career, he will thrive beyond what Bush--who has probably been underappreciated at this point--has accomplished in the NFL. That will require deploying him smartly, not asking him to run between the tackles as a bell-cow back or run a lot of routes right at closing linebackers. Don’t ask him to try and anchor as a pass protector, or touch the ball four times in seven plays. Johnson isn’t that kind of player. He’s not quite Jamaal Charles as a running back, and overworking him won’t make him any closer to that level either. At best, Duke Johnson could be the best “lightning” portion in the league of a thunder & lightning backfield. At worst, he’s Reggie Bush 2.0. That’s not all that bad, and I’d be very comfortable spending a top 45 pick on him. Current projection: 2nd-3rd round.) (4-20-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2610/Draft-Prospecting-Miami-Hurricanes
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (6. Duke Johnson, Miami: The 5-foot-9, 207-pound Johnson is yet another explosive player who is proven as a runner, receiver and returner. He’s not nearly as polished as an inside runner as other prospects and struggles in pass protection. He also doesn’t make the big play every time it’s there. He ran a 4.5-second 40 at his pro day and should be a Day 2 pick.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
Miami RB Duke Johnson says he fits Dallas' scheme: 'I can run it in my sleep' (4-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000486541/article/miami-rb-duke-johnson-i-fit-dallas-offensive-scheme
Detroit Lions, NFL Draft, need for a running back and what they should do (An ideal back to combat what defenses are doing against the Lions appears to be Duke Johnson from Miami. He has good breakaway speed. He ran a 4.51 40 at the combine. He isn't a top inside runner, but the Lions have Bell to do that. Johnson's initial burst is what separates him. They need a back more threatening in space than Bell and Riddick to gash the creases that are naturally wide with the five- and six-man fronts they see. Johnson is the best fit for the Lions in that regard in a what is a deep draft for running backs.) (4-16-15): http://patcaputo.blogspot.com/2015/04/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-need-for.html
Greg Cosell's NFL draft preview: Examining the top RBs in a great class (Duke Johnson, Miami (Fla.): Johnson is somewhat reminiscent of Thurman Thomas as a runner-receiver combination back. I’m not saying he will be on the same level of Thomas, just that he plays the same style. Johnson showed short-area burst and explosion on downhill runs; he has a second gear. Johnson also showed very good lateral agility and quickness in confined space, an important trait. He has light feet with smooth agility and change of direction. He’s a better runner with more quick twitch than Bishop Sankey, the first back taken in last year’s draft. Johnson has easy fluidity and change of direction, an easy accelerator, smooth and explosive with a great feel for cutback lanes. He would fit zone schemes very well.) (4-12-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--examining-the-top-running-backs-in-a-great-class-184532748.html
Q and A with Duke Johnson: Miami RB talks draft, Shady McCoy comp, more (4-9-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484530/article/duke-johnson-on-nfl-draft-lesean-mccoy-comparisons-more
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (5/57. *Duke Johnson, Miami (FL), 5-09, 207, 4.50, 2: --2k Duke: Randy "Duke" Johnson created high expectations early when he came out of Miami Norland High as the No. 1 rated running back prospect and was being compared to the fleet Chris Johnson, who was then known for his 2,000-yard season for the Tennessee Titans. Duke didn't disappoint at Miami when he finally stayed healthy last season, playing in all 13 games as he rushed for 1,652 yards and emerged as a receiving threat out of the backfield leading the league in all-purpose yards with 2,073, averaging 7.4 yards every time he touched the ball. That gave him some redemption after a 2013 season in which injuries allowed him to play only eight games, although he averaged 174.1 all-purpose yards per before an ankle injury ended his season. After his family lived out of a car for a while with his mother, Cassandra Mitchell, Johnson is driven to become a provider. --Measuring up: After a 40-yard dash electronic time at the combine of 4.54 seconds, Johnson came back with an April 1 pro day hand-held time of 4.48 (equivalent to 4.55 electronic). Combine vertical jump was 33.5 inches, broad jump was 10-feet-1 inch. Exact height is 5-foot-9 1/8th inches and he has short arms (30 3/8ths inches). --Notable quote: "Being able to receive out of the backfield is the No. 1 thing. I'm a mismatch with linebackers. I can catch the ball really well." -- Johnson at combine, when asked to name his best trait. --Frankly: Johnson is an entertaining back who can explode in any direction at any time, sometimes a bit out of control and in haste. He can be a game-breaker with his talent or a back-breaker with his fumbles. He is certainly worth a shot, but is not the guy to carry an NFL team on his back.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
Basketball player turned tight end worked out at Miami's pro day (Running back Duke Johnson (5-9 1/8, 203) ran the 40 in 4.5 and 4.51 seconds. He had a 35-inch vertical jump. He did the short shuttle in 4.16 seconds and the three-cone drill in 6.88 seconds. He also performed 18 strength lifts. Johnson has really good hands to go along with his good running skills (he finished the 2014 season with 1,652 yards rushing).) (4-6-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483659/article/converted-hoops-player-akpejiori-works-out-at-miamis-pro-day
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (5. Duke Johnson, Miami: Johnson can plant and go with the best of them, consistently displaying the big-play ability that NFL teams crave. Those featuring zone-blocking schemes will be particularly interested thanks to Johnson's decisive one-cut style. The rub here is that Johnson may project better within a committee than set up as a full-time No. 1 back—he cannot yet be trusted as a pass blocker and may struggle to grind for yards between the tackles. Even so, his wait on draft weekend should not be all that long. Projection: Early third round) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
Phillip Dorsett clocks a blistering 4.2 40-yard dash at Miami pro day (Running back Duke Johnson improved his 40-yard dash time at Miami's pro day (4.48) from the Combine (4.54), adding a 34-inch vertical leap. He also impressed catching the ball out of the backfield, plucking the ball with quick hands and reliable focus. Johnson doesn't have an ideal build for the NFL game, but he will be a nice consolation prize in the second round for a team that passes or misses on a running back in the first round.) (4-2-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25131794/phillip-dorsett-clocks-a-blistering-42-40-yard-dash-at-miami-pro-day
Nos. 59-55: Enticing edge rushers found in Round 2 (57. Duke Johnson, RB, Miami: Bio: Johnson leaves Miami as the team's all-time leader in all-purpose yardage, proving over three seasons that he is one of the most impressive and versatile backs in this draft class. Despite injuries throughout his time with the Hurricanes, Johnson averaged an amazing 6.7 yards per carry and scored 32 total touchdowns. While he doesn't fit the profile of an every-down back in the NFL, teams with unique ways of using running backs should be watching his tape very closely. Strengths: Ideally-sized speed back (5'9", 207 pounds) with outstanding acceleration as his primary attribute. Ran a 4.54 40 at the combine, but is much faster than that on the field. Once he gets past the first point of contact, he hits another gear entirely. True one-cut-and-go runner. Very agile in trash and has the raw power to escape arm tackles. Stronger than his size may indicate. Has speed to the edge and the ability to cut back quickly into other gaps. Good receiver with multi-route awareness; can make plays everywhere from out of the backfield to the slot to out wide. Dynamic return man when given the opportunity, averaging 33 yards per kick return and scoring two touchdowns in 2012. Weaknesses: Not a downhill runner; limited when facing inside contact and struggles to create in short spaces. Not an outstanding blocker and needs to square up and do the dirty work instead of dithering at times. Injury concerns throughout his career. Not likely to be an every-down back, but a creative coaching staff could bring out his best. Conclusion: The extent to which Johnson will be seen as valuable to NFL teams is tied to the needs those teams may have. No, he's not scheme-transcendent, and no, he's not an every-down back—unless you're a team that defines "every-down back" as a player who can be used all over the field. The Bush comparison makes sense because Bush was at his best when the Saints used him as a hybrid back/receiver weapon who frequently shifted out of the backfield to the slot, creating major disadvantages for opposing base defenses. And this is not to say that Johnson will dry up and blow away every time a linebacker lays a hit on him—he's strong enough to deal with that. Ideally, Johnson would be both a rotational player and an every-down weapon—rotated around the formation to set defenses up for failure. Pro Comparison: Reggie Bush, 49ers (Round 1, 2006).) (3-31-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/03/31/2015-nfl-draft-ranking-si-64-phillip-dorsett-tyler-lockett
Pro Day Weekly Preview (Despite the 6-7 record last year, Miami (Fla.) has an intriguing batch of NFL prospects this year, including running back Duke Johnson, who is one of a handful of running backs who could be drafted in the top two rounds. He plans to be a full participant and improve his 40-yard dash, after running a somewhat disappointing 4.54 in Indianapolis. Johnson didn't run the shuttles or three cone drills at the Combine due to a right hamstring strain, but is fully healthy now.) (3-30-15): Jameis takes the stage: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25128528/pro-day-weekly-preview-jameis-takes-the-stage
Film review: Miami RB Duke Johnson would complement Lions well (3-25-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/03/26/detroit-lions-film-review-nfl-draft-duke-johnson/70471204/
Miami's Johnson has no doubt he can change doubters' minds (3-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481023/article/miami-rb-duke-johnson-touts-his-own-durability
Zierlein's top 10 RB prospects (5. Duke Johnson, Miami - Zierlein's bottom line: One of the most explosive runners in college football during his time at Miami, Johnson doesn't need much of a crease to make defenses pay. His explosive quickness and elusiveness should help him adapt quickly to NFL speed and his feel and courage as a one-cut runner should earn him instant playing time. Johnson's lack of protection skills and his injury concerns could force him into a committee situation.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479538/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-running-backs
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Duke Johnson's fumble rate is once in every 85.0 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
NFL Draft Top 50, Nos. 41-50: Devin Funchess talented but flawed player (46. Miami (Fla.) RB Duke Johnson 5-9, 207: In the right offense, Johnson could be a Darren Sproles-like performer. He has exceptional quickness and burst, and runs with purpose, inside and out. Johnson is a natural receiver and can pull away from defenders, even after an injury-plagued college career. Fumbling also has been an issue, and his size doesn't allow him to be a three-down, 20-touch back. He also has limitations in pass protection, which could concern a pass-heavy team. Still, even after a gruesome knee injury, Johnson plays with a warrior's mentality and doesn't appear to have lost a ton of juice. NFL comparison: Somewhere between Felix Jones and Tre Mason. Draft range: Late second to early third round.) (3-2-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-draft-top-50--nos--41-50--devin-funchess-talented-but-polarizing-prospect-205430152.html
14 players that need to have strong pro days (Duke Johnson – Miami – He is another running back who ran slower than expected. He may also want to try and improve on his 33.5″ vertical jump. Johnson did not run any of the agilities, so he needs to run those also.) (2-27-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/14-players-that-need-to-have-a-strong-pro-day/
Combine Notebook Part II (Duke Johnson – I thought his overall performance was not as good as was expected. Most thought he would run in the 4.4’s and he ran 4.54, His vertical jump was a disappointing 33.5″, but his long jump was good, leaping 10’1″. He did not do any of the agility drills and will perform those at the Miami pro day.) (2-22-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-nfl-combine-notebook-part-ii/
Video - Duke Johnson runs the 40 (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Duke-Johnson-runs-the-40-yard-dash/9cdc6d5d-e470-47a8-9e9e-530ea3cdf0fe
Lions Combine Gleanings (Miami’s Duke Johnson ran poorly with a 4.60 40 and a lousy 10-yard split. I haven’t seen the tape but several viewers advised me he looked awkward in getting out of the blocks. His game tape screams otherwise, but his bad day in Indy might actually help him fall to Detroit in the third round. The consensus on him is that he’s in the 60-80 overall draft range and he would be a reach at #54.) (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/02/lions-combine-gleanings/
2015 Combine: Day 4 (Duke Johnson may have disappointed some with 40 times of 4.55 and 4.60 but he’s also about telephone booth quickness and making guys miss. His football speed is much better than his combine speed. Johnson destroyed the cone drill with his footwork. Just textbook cuts and drew high praise from Marshall Faulk.) (2-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-4-news-notes.html
RBs 2015 Combine Field Drill Recaps (Miami running back Duke Johnson (5-9, 207) clocked an unofficial 40 of 4.55 seconds. While that time was rather average, he did well in the field drills and displayed excellent feet to change direction. He also was very solid as a receiver. Johnson looks secure as a second-round pick.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutRB.php
2015 NFL Combine: RB Weigh-In Analysis (Miami running back Duke Johnson (5-9, 207) is known as a speedy slasher, and it helped him to show up over 200 pounds. He had been listed below 200 entering his junior year when he added weight in the offseason to top two bills. Johnson has the speed to be a Combine standout in the 40.) (2-19-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015weighinRB.php
Could the Lions be looking to drafting a RB? (Duke Johnson is scheduled to meet with the Lions later in the week. Johnson played 3 seasons for the Hurricanes where he rushed for 1,652 yards in 2014 with 13 TD’s. He also caught another 3 scores. Johnson seems to fit in as a third down back in the NFL and is projected to be a late second round pick.) (2-19-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/02/19/could-the-lions-be-looking-to-draft-a-rb/
2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Takeaways from Day 2 (Duke is a bit Shady. Miami (Fla.) tailback Duke Johnson was one of the most electrifying players in college football and is hoping to keep that going as he transitions to the NFL. To that end, he said he models his game after the Philadelphia Eagles' LeSean McCoy and hopes to have similar breakaway ability for some team.) (2-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000471879/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-prospect-takeaways-from-day-2
These are players who will impress you at the NFL Scouting Combine (Johnson won’t catch anyone by surprise if he’s among the top testers in the 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle and 3-cone drill. Miami’s leading rusher was one of college football’s best big-play threats throughout his entire career. If his medical evaluations go well, he should solidify himself as a solid second-day option.) (2-17-15): http://q.usatoday.com/2015/02/16/nfl-scouting-combine-top-players/
NFC scout said Johnson will be a third down back (That NFC scout raves about Dorsett (“he will be a good No. 2 receiver and could start as a slot guy now”) and said Duke Johnson, because of his size, will be no more than a third-down back. Kiper said Johnson could slip to the fourth round.) (2-16-15): http://miamiherald.typepad.com/sports-buzz/2015/02/do-hurricanes-really-perform-better-in-nfl-exploring-the-theory-dolphins-heat-marlins-chatter.html
NFL combine options wide open for Lions (Duke Johnson, Miami: If the Lions are looking specifically to fill the Reggie Bush role, the 5-foot-8 Johnson could be a speedy option in the second round. He can run, catch and return but has some injury concerns.) (2-16-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/02/15/combine-options-wide-open-lions/23475107/
Johnson aims to impress at Combine; compares himself to Lesean McCoy (2-19-15): http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nfl/article10718309.html
Miami RB Duke Johnson "a very explosive player, but durability concerns could hurt his draft stock," wrote ESPN's Todd McShay. ("He's undersized (5-9, 206), and even though he started all 13 games in 2014, he's dealt with some injuries during his Miami career," McShay wrote. "He suffered a season-ending ankle injury in 2013, has dealt with concussion-like symptoms and has a history of migraines." The 5-foot-9, 194-pound Johnson had 1,652 rushing yards on a 6.8 YPC average and 10 touchdowns in 2014, adding 38 receptions for 421 yards and three scores. He finished with 3,519 career rushing yards, passing in the record books elite Hurricane RBs such as Frank Gore, Clinton Portis, Edgerrin James, Willis McGahee and Ottis Anderson. CBS projects him as a Day 2 pick.) (2-18-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=131674&line=39718&spln=1
Johnson motivated by family ties (2-18-15): http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/running-back-prospect-duke-johnson-motivated-by-family-ties-1.9952565
Mayock: RBs Johnson, Abdullah could fit Lions in draft ("There are two of them in the second round that make a ton of sense: Ameer Abdullah from Nebraska and Duke Johnson from Miami," Mayock said. Johnson broke Ottis Anderson's career rushing record at Miami (Fla.) this year, finished his three-year Hurricanes career with 3,519 yards and 26 touchdowns, and also can return kicks and punts. Mayock ranks Johnson fourth overall at running back, behind Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley -- his only two backs with first-round grades -- and Abdullah.) (2-16-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/02/16/nfl-draft-rb-rankings/23513321/
NFL Combine options wide open for the Lions (If the Lions are looking specifically to fill the Reggie Bush role, the 5-foot-8 Johnson could be a speedy option in the second round. He can run, catch and return but has some injury concerns.) (2-16-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-cedric-ogbuehi-and-brandon-scherff/
Duke Johnson puts mom at center of success (2-14-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/2015/02/14/duke-johnson-miami-nfl-draft/23438389/
2015 NFL Combine: Prospects with the most to gain or lose (RB Duke Johnson, Miami (Fla.) - One of the several underclass running backs in the second-round discussion, Johnson's lean body type leads to durability concerns, holding your breath after every hit. Is his frame maxed out at 205 pounds?) (2-12-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25067278/nfl-combine-prospects-with-the-most-to-gain-or-lose
2015 Combine Preview: RBs (Best trait: Explosiveness – Duke Johnson might end up being one of the fastest backs in this class. He’s an elusive runner and good receiver out of the backfield. He rushed for 1,652 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2014 and added 38 catches for 421 yards and another three scores. Concern: Size – Is he a three-down back in the NFL? Can he hold up in a smash-mouth type of game? Can he pick up the blitz? All questions he’ll have to answer at the Combine and his Pro Day. The skinny: Johnson can be a versatile weapon in the backfield in the right offense. A team like Detroit, who utilizes it backs heavily in the pass game, could utilize a player of Johnson’s skill set. He’ll be a good weapon in a two-back system.) (2-10-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/2015-Combine-Preview-Running-back/850078f5-6a7c-4022-9317-650198604ace
2015 Scouting Combine: Six RBs under scrutiny (Johnson is another player who was overshadowed this season, but he ended his career as the leading rusher in Miami history, an impressive feat, considering the Hurricanes have produced a number of top-flight running backs. Johnson is a good receiver, which adds to his value and is a reason he could be the third back selected. He has had some injury issues, and his medical report will be scrutinized. His times in the 40 and several other drills should be impressive.) (2-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000469375/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-six-running-backs-under-scrutiny
Lions NFL Combine Preview: RBs (Duke Johnson, Miami (FL) (5-9, 206): Rated the No. 7 running back and No. 49 player overall by ESPN. Had three straight years of over 900 yards rushing, including 1,652 as a junior. Can catch passes, as he had 69 receptions for 719 yards and four touchdowns in three seasons. He returned kicks his freshman and sophomore years as well.) (2-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/15161/lions-nfl-combine-preview-running-backs
Most fascinating pro comps for prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Duke Johnson, RB, Miami - The NFL comp: C.J. Spiller. The skinny: Like Spiller, Johnson has ridiculous foot quickness and lateral agility. He can catch the ball out of the backfield with ease. He is a very natural runner, but like Spiller, Johnson faces questions about whether he can hold up to the pounding he'll take in the NFL.) (2-4-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000468159/article/most-fascinating-pro-comps-for-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
Top 12 most freakish athletes in 2015 (Johnson has lightning in his feet. Has hips and feet to stop and start without stalling. Rare ability on stretch plays to hit cutback lanes that other backs can't get to. Changes direction without breaking stride. Has second gear around the corner and can erase the angles.) (2-3-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000465906/article/marcus-mariota-among-most-freakish-athletes-in-2015-nfl-draft
Johnson highlights Independence Bowl (Johnson ran for 183 yds, no TDs) (12-27-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24919000/nfl-draft-rbs-davis-johnson-highlight-independence-bowl
What we're hearing about top prospects (The scoop: "I think this is shaping up to be a very good crop of running backs. A guy I really like is (Miami's) Duke Johnson. He's got great quickness, and he runs with surprising power." -- AFC executive. The skinny: Johnson also has skills as a receiver out of the backfield, adding to his resume something many backs can't when they enter the pros, and making him more valuable in the process. NFL Media analyst Bucky Brooks wrote last month that Johnson could end up being a better pro prospect than some of the bigger names expected to be in this year's draft. Cincinnati coach Tommy Tuberville compared Johnson's style to Walter Payton and Barry Sanders, the way he can accelerate through a hole and change direction. Miami's all-time leader in all-purpose (5,343) and rushing (3,387) yards, Johnson says it's "50-50" whether he will declare early for the draft, although many believe it's a fait accompli. He plans on announcing his decision Dec. 28, the day after the Hurricanes' bowl game with South Carolina.) (12-17-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000445256/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-nfl-prospects
Scouts take (The Hurricanes' star has flown under the radar on the national scene, but his NFL stock could be booming after his impressive performance against North Carolina. Johnson tallied 226 yards from scrimmage (177 rushing yards; 49 receiving yards) on 21 touches and scored three times in Miami's 47-20 win. The 5-9, 206-pound junior has been on fire the last five games, rushing for 843 yards on 97 carries and displaying the vision, quickness and explosiveness that has scouts intrigued by his dynamic game at the next level. With Johnson also showing exceptional skills as a receiver out of the backfield, he could be a better pro prospect than some of the bigger names garnering the headlines at the position.)(11-3-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000422344/article/scouts-take-tennessee-qb-josh-dobbs-an-emerging-superstar
Johnson closing in on Miami's all-time rushing mark (11-2-14): http://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/11/02/duke-johnson-closing-in-on-miamis-all-time-rushing-mark/
Johnson runs for 177 yd as Miami rips North Carolina (11-1-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000420824/article/duke-johnson-runs-for-177-yards-as-miami-rips-north-carolina
Week 9 Stock Report (The most dominant running back performance of week nine happened last Thursday night, as Johnson ran all over Virginia Tech's defense. He was so impressive, long-time Hokies coach Frank Beamer offered this up when asked if Johnson was the best back he's seen all season: "Not only all season. Forever." Johnson set a new career-high with 249 rushing yards on 29 carries and a touchdown, adding two catches for 37 receiving yards and a receiving score. It was his first career 200-yard game, and his 31 offensive touches also was a new personal-best. Johnson is a twitchy athlete who knows how to shoot holes with fast acceleration and has a second gear in the open field, making it tough on defenders to react to his movements. He can go too fast at times and won't always properly read blocks, but against the Hokies, Johnson was on point all night and showed why teams will consider taking him among the top 50 picks in next spring's draft.) (10-28-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24771634/nfl-draft-week-nine-stock-report
Week Nine Risers and Sliders (Prior to his fourth quarter injury Johnson was a one-man show for the Hurricanes, steamrolling Virginia Tech for 249 yards rushing and one score. He also led the team with 37 receiving yards on 2 receptions. The elusive ball carrier combines quickness, instincts and a burst of speed to beat defenders every time the ball’s in his hands. Johnson’s a three down back, well schooled in all areas of the position, and will land in the second round if he declares for the 2015 draft, which he’s expected to do.) (10-27-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10124
Johnson, Canes OL storms through Virginia Tech (10-23-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24765281/nfl-draft-duke-johnson-canes-ol-storm-through-v-tech
2015 NFL Draft: Acc Prospect Rankings (Duke Johnson is a terrific running back prospect and a quick, creative ball carrier with speed. He has a burst which can be turned on in a single step and Johnson easily beats defenders into the open field. The junior is also a consistent pass catching threat out of the backfield and offers starting potential at the next level.) (8-26-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9954
2015 NFL Draft: Miami (Much like Perryman, Johnson wasted no time making his mark on the ACC from the moment he arrived on campus, compiling 947 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 2012 along with 892 yards and two touchdowns as a kick returner, for an impressive 2,060 all-purpose yards in his true freshman season - second most in UM history. He kept right on rolling as a sophomore when, despite missing the final four games of the season due to a fractured ankle, Johnson earned second-team All-ACC honors compiling 920 yards and six touchdowns and averaging 174.1 all-purpose yards per contest. While Johnson may lack the size that scouts look for in an every-down running back at the next level, he exhibits vision and patience beyond his years, possesses rare initial burst throught the hole, and is a physical runner with the ability to move defenders and extend plays on contact. He needs to work on adjusting his levels in the open field as he tends to run a bit upright making it hard for him to stop and redirect with suddenness, and despite his strong initial burst, he's had some trouble running away from secondaries once he's had a clear path to the end zone. A healthy junior campaign with continued improvement and perhaps a bit more bulk added to his frame could put Johnson at the top of the list of draft-eligible running backs for 2015. And considering the shorter NFL lifespan of running backs, early entry might just be his best option.) (7-14-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24620026/nfl-draft-miami-fla
RB Jeremy Langford:
Scouting Reports:
Michigan State Profile Page: http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/jeremy_langford_716682.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/jeremy-langford?id=2552379
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1762313/jeremy-langford
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=109618&draftyear=2015&genpos=RB
Detroit Lions 2015 NFL draft prospect: Michigan State running back Jeremy Langford: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_2015_nfl_draft_p_8.html
Articles:
NFP Prospect Focus: Gallik, Finney and Langford (Jeremy Langford -RB – Michigan State (5115 – 211 (Senior Bowl)): Strong Points - Jeremy has adequate running back size and excellent timed speed. With the ball in his hand, he shows good vision and instincts. He is a reliable receiver with good hands and also shows he can pass block. Weak Points - He shows only average initial quickness, he is not overly creative and does not play to timed speed. He has a tendency of running tall and he isn’t an overly creative runner. He lacks good elusiveness, and I don’t see a special trait. Summation - He is a productive college back who lacks a special trait to carry him to the next level. he is a one cut north/south runner who gets what’s there but not much more. He’ll pass block and is a reliable receiver. He is more of a backup who can play in a rotation but never a starter. He should have good special teams potential.) (4-26-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-gallik-finney-and-langford/
NFL Draft All-sleeper Team (RB: Jeremy Langford, Michigan State. In a Big Ten with Melvin Gordon, Tevin Coleman and Ezekiel Elliott, Langford was hardly the flashiest tailback, and he was easily overshadowed. Connor Cook largely gets credited for jumpstarting the Michigan State offense after an abysmal start to the 2013 season, but Cook was helped by the emergence of Langford as a chain-moving tailback who guaranteed 100 yards just about every week. He finished his career having cracked 100 yards in 16 straight Big Ten games, and he improved as a senior, posting a solid 1,522 yards and 22 touchdowns on 276 carries. Not bad for a former receiver and defensive back.) (4-23-15): http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/120082102/nfl-draft-2015-best-sleepers-tyler-lockett-josh-robinson-stefon-diggs
Don't Sleep On These Prospects (Running Back: Jeremy Langford, Michigan State - Langford doesn't have the build you look for when projecting NFL RBs but he's a natural with the ball in his hands, flashing the ability to read and understand his blocks, along with the vision to get north-south very quickly. He's also got solid hands and the ability to catch the football out of the backfield. A year on the practice squad with a good strength coach implementing a solid plan could pan out for Langford, especially if he can keep his 4.42 speed while adding muscle mass. "I've been the underdog my whole career," Langford said. "I think my versatility is huge in the NFL, (the ability) to be a three-down back. I feel I can run the ball between the tackles and get the short yards.") (4-21-15): http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/tsnform.aspx?c=sportsnetwork&page=nfl/writers/extrapoints/archive/extrapoints_042115.htm
Lions draft preview: Running back talent runneth over (8. Jeremy Langford, Michigan State: Few players helped themselves at the combine as much as Langford, as his 4.42-second 40-yard dash makes it easier to overlook some other flaws in his game. The 6-foot, 208-pound Langford was highly productive, but didn’t have much success running physically. As a former receiver and a solid blocker, though, Langford could develop into a three-down option.) (4-20-14): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/20/lions-draft-preview-running-back-talent-runneth-over/26096361/
2015 NFL Draft positional overviews: Running backs (Biggest sleeper: Michigan State's Jeremy Langford. Lost in all the hoopla surrounding Big Ten brethren Gordon, Coleman and Abdullah during the regular season and Ohio State's Ezekiel Elliott in the postseason is that Langford quietly put together a second consecutive season with 1,400-plus yards. He rushed for a combined 2,944 yards and 40 TDs in 2013 and 2014. His speed was supposed to be a concern -- then he busted a 4.48 clocking in the 40 at the NFL Scouting Combine. Langford (6-0, 208) played some wide receiver (and corner, too) at Michigan State, and was an effective receiver out of the backfield in 2013. At the least, he could be an interesting third-down back.) (4-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485602/article/2015-nfl-draft-the-skinny-on-this-years-running-backs
Experts analyze Lions' draft needs: Almost everything (Brown has been a popular name in mock drafts for the Lions, and Steve Muench of Scouts Inc. also mentioned him in the espn.com scouting report as a possible Day 1 target for them, along with Texas A&M offensive tackle Cedric Ogbuehi on Day 2 of the draft and Michigan State running back Jeremy Langford on Day 3. "Langford is an effective runner between the tackles even though he lacks ideal power, because he makes the most of his blocks and he has a good feel for cutback lanes. He also has the burst to turn the corner on perimeter runs and the top-end speed to threaten after the catch.") (4-14-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/14/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-needs/25759543/
Greg Cosell's NFL draft preview: Examining the top RBs in a great class (Jeremy Langford, Michigan State: Overall there is a lot to like about Langford. He is a smooth runner with some wiggle and elusiveness, and showed the lateral agility to make defenders miss in space. But his biggest issue in transitioning to the NFL is he’s a light runner with little natural power, and his game in college was built on inside runs. Langford is a downhill runner with light feet and plus lateral quickness but he lacks the natural power that his running style demands at the NFL level. At Michigan State he ran light despite weighing 208 pounds, there’s not a real physical dimension to his running style.) (4-12-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-nfl-draft-preview--examining-the-top-running-backs-in-a-great-class-184532748.html
Film review: MSU RB Jeremy Langford a mid-round option for Lions (4-11-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/11/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-film-review-jeremy-langford-michigan-state/25624237/
2015 NFL Draft: Running backs return to respectability (8/79. Jeremy Langford, Michigan State, 6-0, 208, 4.40, 2-3: --Underrated: Despite plenty of evidence, Langford is still having difficulty being recognized as one of this draft's top running back prospects. He is probably rated higher here than on most lists. Even the MSU coaching staff was unsure about Langford, who played boundary cornerback, safety and was a special teams star until 2013. That's when Langford had to change the minds of coaches who were planning on a running back by committee approach after Le'Veon Bell left for the NFL. Langford asserted his size, speed and cunning to become MSU's committee all by himself. In his last 27 games, Langford gained 2,967 yards on 577 carries (5.14 average) with 40 touchdowns rushing. He also caught 39 passes for 219 yards (5.62 average) and another score. Langford runs with a combination of patience and moves reminiscent of Warrick Dunn, but has a surprisingly fast shift of gears that leaves defenders on a wrong tangent. As a pass catcher, well, MSU actually penciled him in as a receiver before he made his case as a running back. He has a long ways to go to be trusted as a pass blocker. --Measuring up: At the combine, Langford was exactly 5-feet-11 5/8th inches tall. At 208 pounds, he shocked most scouts with the fastest 40-yard time among all running backs at Indianapolis, whether by the announced electronic time of 4.42 seconds or his best hand-held time of 4.40 seconds (10-yard best of 1.55 seconds, also best among running backs). The rest of his workouts were more pedestrian -- 34.5-inch vertical jump, 9-foot-10-inch broad jump and disappointing short shuttle (4.32 seconds) and three-cone (7.22 seconds). He begged off the bench press with a bad shoulder. --Notable quote: "My technique, pass blocking, and being able to run through contact better, which always comes with more experience." -- Langford, at the combine, when asked what he needs to work on. --Frankly: OK, let's try this. Draft Langford in the third round and let him be hellacious on special teams while he buys time to prove once again that he is underrated as a running back.) (4-8-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25141385/nfl-draft-running-backs-return-to-respectability
CFB's most underappreciated offensive difference-makers (Michigan State RB Jeremy Langford: Langford bounced between running back and defensive back early in his career, but last year -- his redshirt junior season -- was his first as a full-time rusher, and he was a monster, rushing for more than 100 yards in a school-record eight consecutive games to close out the season. We hear a lot about Big Ten RBs Melvin Gordon and Ameer Abdullah -- and we should -- but Langford clearly established himself as one of the league's top runners, too, rushing for 1,422 yards and a Big Ten-best 18 touchdowns. According to STATS, his 725 yards rushing after contact were second among FBS running backs to Arizona's Ka'Deem Carey, a fourth-round pick of the Chicago Bears.) (8-14-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000377851/article/cfbs-most-underappreciated-offensive-differencemakers
Gordon, Gurley stand tall in deep running back class (10. Jeremy Langford, Michigan State: A position-leading 4.42 40-yard dash at the combine confirmed that Langford has an NFL future as a dangerous receiver out of the backfield if nothing else. He actually played wide receiver and cornerback at Michigan State prior to his move to running back. Langford must get into space to be effective—odds are he will not be overly successful as a rookie between the tackles unless he lands behind a crushing offensive line—but he make things happen once he's there. A team could trust him on all downs and lean on him in passing situations. Projection: Fifth round) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-running-back-rankings-todd-gurley-melvin-gordon
Five RB prospects with best game-breaking speed (4. Jeremy Langford, Michigan State: Langford led all running backs at the combine in the 40-yard dash at 4.42, and it wasn't particularly close, with the next-best time being Karlos Williams' 4.48. That won't make him a home run threat from anywhere on the field -- Chris Johnson, he's not -- but he won't be easy to catch in the open field. The knock on Langford isn't his wheels; his reputed inability to break tackles is why his draft status isn't especially high. He rushed for over 100 yards in Michigan State's last 10 games in 2014 after falling short of the mark in its first four. NFL fit: Pittsburgh Steelers. If Pittsburgh wants Le'Veon Bell's career to be a long one, its reserves will need to get more action than they did a year ago. Langford could give Bell a third-down breather at a minimum draft-day expense.) (3-26-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481389/article/five-rb-prospects-with-best-gamebreaking-speed
NFL draft: MSU's Langford wants to stay home with Lions (3-22-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/03/22/jeremy-langford-nfl-draft-michigan-state-spartans/25206591/
2015 NFL draft: this week in pro days (Running back Jeremy Langford didn’t get an opportunity to showcase his hands while playing for the Spartans and surprised some by making some really nice catches.) (3-20-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-this-week-in-pro-days-2.html
2015 NFL Draft: Five Takeaways from this week's Pro Day workouts (After clocking a 4.42 second 40-yard dash in Indianapolis, running back Jeremy Langford didn't need to do much in East Lansing but he showed impressive burst out of his cuts and caught the ball so well that scouts who attended the workout hoping to watch other players couldn't help but notice the 5-foot-11, 209 pound back.) (3-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25116353/nfl-draft-five-takeaways-from-this-weeks-pro-day-workouts
Trae Waynes of Michigan State substantiates high draft stock (Running back Jeremy Langford (5-11 3/8, 209) did the 20-yard short shuttle in 4.27 seconds and performed 19 strength lifts. Langford caught the ball well in the positional drills, and that surprised some people because he wasn't a featured receiver in the Spartans' offense. Langford's 40 time -- 4.42 seconds -- was the best among running backs at the combine.) (3-18-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479907/article/trae-waynes-of-michigan-state-substantiates-high-draft-stock
Davis: Mariota's former backup leads 2015 Draft All-Underrated Offense (Running back: Jeremy Langford, Michigan State The skinny: Langford gets lost in the shuffle at times coming from a Big Ten conference loaded with talent at his position, but he shouldn't be overlooked. He rushed for more than 100 yards in 15 consecutive Big Ten games to close his college career, which is an FBS record since 1996, when STATS started tracking those marks.) (3-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479614/article/2015-nfl-draft-allunderrated-team-qb-bennett-leads-offense
2015 NFL Draft: Fumble rate among RB prospects (Langford's fumble rate is once in every 123.2 touches) (3-4-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25092869/nfl-draft-fumble-rate-among-rb-prospects
Top Combine Performers at Lions position of need (Jeremy Langford, 6-0, 208, Michigan State: He had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons at Michigan State, then came to the combine and ran the fastest 40 of the bunch of running backs at 4.42.) (2-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473997/article/marcus-peters-paul-dawson-among-combine-duds-with-promise
2015 NFL Combine: 25 Takeaways (5 players sending us back to the tape - Jeremy Langford, RB, Michigan State: In rushing for 2,944 yards over the past two seasons in East Lansing, scouts knew Langford could run. Few, however, anticipated that he'd run faster than any other back in the class, clocking in at 4.42 seconds at a rock-solid 6-0, 208 pounds.) (2-23-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25079684/nfl-combine-25-takeaways-include-risersfallerspro-days
NFL Combine 40 yd dash results (Spartan fans earned some bragging rights at the combine, as Trae Waynes posted the second-best time overall (4.31 seconds) in the 40 and the fastest among all defensive backs. That followed up former Michigan State tailback Jeremy Langford running the quickest time (4.42 seconds) of all 31 running backs to toe the line at the combine. Waynes was already considered by many to be the No. 1 cornerback in this draft, and his lightning-quick time could help him solidify his position as the first DB off the board.) (2-23-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/21/nfl-combine-40-yard-dash-jj-nelson-marcus-mariota-phillip-dorsett
Video - Langford's 40 yd dash (4.43) (2-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine-top-performers/0ap3000000473016/Jeremy-Langford-leads-RBs-in-40-yard-dash
RBs 2015 Combine Field Drill Recaps (Michigan State running back Jeremy Langford is sneaky fast, as he blazed a fast 40, much faster than expected. He had a 4.43 unofficial time in the 40-yard dash, and that was the fastest time of any back at the Combine. Langord (6-0, 208) did his part to cause teams to give him more consideration.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015workoutRB.php
Buzz worthy and buzz kill players from Saturday at the Combine (Langford is buzz-worthy. Despite posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons at Michigan State, the former Spartan has flown under the radar for most of the pre-draft process. That should change after Langford posted the fastest 40 time (4.42 seconds) in the RB group, displaying excellent acceleration and burst. The surprising showing in this sprint event will force scouts to take an extended look at Langford's tape to see if they overlooked his second gear while watching him carry Sparty's offense as the feature back. If the evaluators see Langford's surprising speed and burst show up on tape, the former Spartan will move up the board as a potential sleeper pick in war rooms around the league.) (2-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473193/article/kevin-white-shines-devin-funchess-struggles-at-nfl-combine
Day 2 Combine Risers and Sliders (Jeremy Langford, RB, Michigan State picked as a riser: Impressive showing in the 40-yard dash from the 1,500-yard back. Langford broke off a 4.43 40 time and repeated in his second round, thus making him the fastest back on Saturday. He may need to carve out a role as a passing-down back, so flashing breakaway speed will help.) (2-21-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/21/nfl-combine-day-2-risers-sliders-kevin-white-jaelen-strong-jameis-winston-marcus-mariota
Langford validates speed, fastest among RBs at Combine (2-21-15): http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2015/02/michigan_states_jeremy_langfor_5.html
Local contigent set to impress at Combine (Jeremy Langford: He was a highly productive runner, but must run fast to stand out among a deep class of rushers. ESPN ranks him No. 9 among running backs and 100th overall.) (2-17-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/college/2015/02/17/local-contingent-set-impress-nfl-combine/23588061/
What we're hearing about top prospects (The scoop: "I don't see him as a starter. I think he can be a backup or compete as a third-down back, but he doesn't run tough enough to be able to project him as a starter in really any scheme." -- NFC East scout on Michigan State RB Jeremy Langford. The skinny: Langford has improved a great deal since the Spartans' 2013 season, but he isn't a physical running back who'll accelerate through contact, break tackles, and maximize his yards with each carry. He'll usually get what is blocked, and teams could peg him as a "committee back" with an ability to play on third downs because of his ability to block and catch passes.) (2-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000469399/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-draft-prospects
Lions NFL Combine Preview: RBs (Jeremy Langford, Michigan State (5-11, 206): Rated as the No. 11 running back and No. 110 player overall by ESPN. He had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, but not much of a pass catching threat.) (2-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/15161/lions-nfl-combine-preview-running-backs
Langford didn't play in the Senior Bowl because of back pain (1-24-15): http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2015/01/michigan_statessenior_bowl_ton.html
2015 Senior Bowl: Thursday Practice Notes (Langford did not practice due to an injury) (1-22-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24984007/senior-bowl-utahs-nate-orchard-blooming-for-north
Day 2 standouts at the Senior Bowl (Tailback is one of the stacked positions at the Senior Bowl this year. The North squad features a trio of top-flight Big Ten backs, and Langford was the one who caught the eye of many Wednesday with his hard running and ability to make one cut and go. "He hits the hole (hard) and makes the right read," NFL Media's Curtis Conway said.)(1-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461702/article/miamis-clive-walford-among-day-2-standouts-at-senior-bowl
Senior Bowl Notebook: Weigh in and Tuesday Practices (Michigan State RB Jeremy Langford was a well-built 211 pounds and 5’11”. He was excellent in passing drills throughout North practice. Langford is intent on proving he can do more in the passing game, something he did not do much of for the Spartans.)(1-20-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2589/Senior-Bowl-Notebook-Weigh-In-And-Tuesday-Practices
Senior Bowl North Practice Report (Michigan State running back Jeremy Langford had a nice cut around the right side to break off a chunk gain in the run scrimmage. Langford showed nice feet and vision on the play. He runs with good pad level and did well on day one.) (1-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice2.php
Local prospects to watch at the Senior Bowl (Jeremy Langford, RB, Michigan State: The Westland John Glenn High product had another stellar season for the Spartans with 1,522 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns. ESPN ranks Langford as the No. 8 back in the draft, but he can help himself by proving he can be a receiving threat, too.) (1-20-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/01/19/lions-gm-mayhew-gets-ready-gauge-senior-bowl-stars/22029643/
No flash or glory for Langford, just 100s (11-29-14): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/college/michigan-state/2014/11/29/michigan-state-football-jeremy-langford/19655221/
In just two years, Langford makes his way into Michigan State's record book (11-24-14): http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2014/11/numbers_in_just_two_years_jere.html
Langford earned his place at tailback after early position moves (11-20-14): http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2014/11/michigan_state_senior_jeremy_l.html
Langford stabilizes Michigan State's running game (11-19-14): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2014/11/19/langford-stabilizes-michigan-state-rushing-game/
5 things to watch (Langford's string of 13 straight 100-yard performances in Big Ten games has been impressive, but he has had some documented issues converting in short-yardage situations up to Dantonio's standards (80 percent). His longest run this season is 36 yards. Langford is a durable, tough runner but the Spartans need him to make the key yards in third- or fourth-and-short. And he's overdue to break a long run this season.) (11-18-14): http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2014/11/5_things_to_watch_a_loss_to_ru.html
Week 11 Prospect Preview (When discussing the top Big Ten running backs, Langford is rarely mentioned in the same breath as Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon, Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah or Indiana's Tevin Coleman. But with 12 straight 100-yard rushing performances against Big Ten competition, Langford has earned his way into the conversation, recording 841 rushing yards on the season. He might not match his 1,422 rushing yard total from a year ago, but he's rushing for a better average (5.3 in 2014 compared to 4.9 last year) as the Spartans' passing game has evolved. Langford has shown improved vision, balance and finishing ability as a senior and on Saturday, he will look to surpass the 128 yards rushing that he put up against the Buckeyes last year.) (11-6-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24785870/nfl-draft-week-11-prospect-preview
Week 9 stock report (The Big Ten is loaded with running back talent, but Langford is a senior prospect at the position who doesn't receive enough credit. He was at his best against Michigan on Saturday, rushing for a season-high 177 yards and three touchdowns while averaging 5.1 yards per carry. Langford has rushed for 100-plus yards in 12 straight Big Ten games and has shown several improvements from last season. He is quick to read at the line of scrimmage, finding holes and following blockers, but is showing better patience as a senior. Langford runs balanced and tough to carry defenders and gets everything he can out of each run, keeping his legs churning after initial contact. While not on the same level as Tevin Coleman, Melvin Gordon or Ameer Abdullah as NFL prospects, Langford and Minnesota's David Cobb are two other Big Ten backs who could be targeted early on Day 3.) (10-28-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24771634/nfl-draft-week-nine-stock-report
Week 9 risers and sliders (Jeremy Langford/RB/Michigan State: Langford grades out as one of the better running backs from the senior class heading towards next April’s draft. He proved as much against in-state rival Michigan as Langford carried the ball 35 times for 177 yards, pushing the ball into the end zone for 3 scores. For the year Langford is averaging 5.3-yards on 125 carries. Though 205-pounds Langford plays big, breaking tackles and displaying himself as a potent short yardage runner. He also has the speed necessary to beat defenders into the open field and holds his own as a pass catcher out of the backfield. Though Langford won’t be rated as highly as many of the talented underclassmen expected to enter the draft, he has all the tools necessary to produce at the next level.)(10-27-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10124
Five RB prospects to keep an eye on (Langford's numbers aren't as gaudy as some of the other guys on this list, but he's rushed for 100-plus yards in each of the past three games after a somewhat quiet start. He's a high-volume ball carrier, and don't forget -- he rushed for more than 100 yards in a school-record eight consecutive games to close out last season as the Spartans made their run to a Big Ten title.) (10-14-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000410978/article/todd-gurley-puts-nfl-drafts-firstround-rb-drought-in-jeopardy
Langford said his ankle is 100 percent by his definition (Langford -- who sprained his ankle in the Spartans' Aug. 29 opener against Jacksonville State -- admits his definition of 100 percent might not exactly be 100 percent accurate.) (9-25-14): http://www.mlive.com/spartans/index.ssf/2014/09/michigan_state_rb_jeremy_langf_2.html
Week 2 Prospect Preview (When discussing the top running backs in the Big Ten, Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah and Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon immediately come to mind. But Langford isn't far behind in terms of NFL potential, rushing for 1,422 yards and 18 touchdowns last season. He runs low to the ground with excellent pad level and energetic feet to get the most out of every touch. Langford is a workhorse type with a hard-nosed, no-nonsense style of running the ball, getting stronger as the game progresses. Against Oregon he needs to show improved patience to work around his blockers, but will also be heavily relied upon in the screen game and in pass protection – two areas that will promise him early playing time in the NFL.) (9-4-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24694328/nfl-draft-week-2-prospect-preview
RB Marcus Murphy:
Scouting Reports:
Missouri Profile Page: http://www.mutigers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/marcus_murphy_690310.html
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737763/marcus-murphy
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=110761&draftyear=2015&genpos=RB
Articles:
Pre-draft Visit: RB Marcus Murphy (4-16-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Pre-draft-visit-RB-Marcus-Murphy/16e34b49-d417-44b9-a733-199d89002314
Lions host all purpose RB Marcus Murphy for a pre-draft visit (4-16-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_host_missouri_al.html
NFL Team swarm Mizzou for pro day (Murphy put on five pounds since the combine and spent the last few weeks working on his bench press after a disappointing 11 reps in Indianapolis. He felt better about his performance Thursday. Murphy said teams have talked to him about being a return specialist and a multipurpose back who can play on third down, line up in the slot and make plays in space. “Special teams are going to be big for me,” he said. During some punt return drills, Murphy worked extensively with a fellow former Mizzou running back. That would be Brock Olivo, now a special teams assistant with the Chiefs. Murphy said he met Olivo a few years ago in Columbia but didn't know until Thursday that he worked for the Chiefs. “He said I was doing a good job,” Murphy said.) (3-16-15): http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/nfl-teams-swarm-mizzou-for-pro-day/article_9c4b7de6-52a8-5f54-b6b8-c5c2a13b58ea.html
NFL Combine Q and A with Murphy (2-20-15): http://www.columbiatribune.com/blogs/behind_the_stripes/nfl-combine-q-and-a-with-marcus-murphy/article_cca971d4-b88b-11e4-a157-b7ac3ce741af.html
Mizzou's Markus Golden making strong impression at Senior Bowl (Another notable Mizzou senior could get an unexpected opportunity to turn some heads in Saturday's game, scheduled for 3 p.m. on the NFL Network. Injuries opened up a spot for SEC Special Teams Player of the Year Marcus Murphy on the North team's roster. He also played last week in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, one of the newest All-Star games that featured head coaches Mike Martz and Mike Holmgren, as well as other big names. Although Murphy's American team lost 17-0, he had the longest play of the day on a 43-yard run in the fourth quarter and also returned a kickoff 24 yards.(1-23-15): http://www.foxsports.com/midwest/story/mizzou-s-markus-golden-making-strong-impression-at-senior-bowl-012315
Mizzou notes: Murphy’s career outing sparks Tigers (In his 52nd college game, Missouri tailback Marcus Murphy had all-but given up on one last achievement that’s eluded him in his career. Murphy came into Thursday’s Citrus Bowl with 1,800 career rushing yards but never put together a 100-yard game. He came close at South Carolina in October but finished two yards short. In his Mizzou finale, Murphy hit the milestone mark and more. The reigning Southeastern Conference special teams player of the year burst through Minnesota’s defense for a 69-yard run to open a late fourth-quarter series, pushing him over the century mark and well beyond. He finished with a game-high 157 yards, in just 12 carries, part of a 337-yard rushing output in the Tigers’ 33-17 win. “I really wasn’t focused on the 100-yard game,” Murphy said. “I just wanted to have the best game I could have and go out with a bang and help us get that win. It happened to be 157 yards and I’m thankful for that.” Murphy finished his career with 5,112 all-purpose yards, second at MU only to former All-American Jeremy Maclin (5,609).) (1-1-15): http://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/mizzou-notes-murphy-s-career-outing-sparks-tigers/article_1fb07602-9161-59a0-ac53-5ddcc9065bbe.html
Marcus Murphy leaves behind multifaceted legacy (1-1-15): http://www.komu.com/news/marcus-murphy-leaves-behind-multifaceted-legacy/
Mizzou looks to Marcus Murphy for big plays (10-22-14): http://stlouis.cbslocal.com/2014/10/22/mizzou-looks-to-marcus-murphy-for-big-plays/
Scout's take (RB/KR Marcus Murphy, Missouri: Whenever an offensive player is capable of making an impact in the kicking game, scouts will denote him with a gold star due to his ability to contribute as a two-phase player. That's why I'm confident Murphy will get an opportunity to make a roster as a utility player following his three-score effort against Florida. Murphy notched a pair of return touchdowns (96-yard kick return; 86-yard punt return) and scored on a five-yard run that showcased his ability to find paydirt as a runner. As more NFL scouts dig into film to search for a solid option in the return game, Murphy's impressive career resume (seven total return touchdowns) could make him an enticing option on draft day.) (10-20-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000414350/article/scouts-take-jameis-winston-is-no-1-qb-prospect-in-college
Murphy scores 3 TDS as Mizzou beats Gators in the swamp (10-19-14): http://www.kmbc.com/sports/marcus-murphy-scores-3-tds-as-mizzou-beats-gators-in-swamp/29220880
Missouri football's Marcus Murphy a threat with the ball or without it (9-16-14): http://www.columbiamissourian.com/a/179152/missouri-footballs-marcus-murphy-a-threat-with-the-ball-or-without-it/
Missouri running backs Marcus Murphy, Russell Hansbrough suffer fourth-quarter injuries (Missouri senior running back Marcus Murphy established a career high Saturday with 94 yards rushing. He also left the game late in the fourth quarter with a sprained ankle. “I think it’s really mild,” Missouri coach Gary Pinkel said. “I think he could have went in if we needed him to.”) (9-14-14): http://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article2101033.html
Good things are happening for Mizzou when do it all Senior Murphy gets touches (9-8-14): http://www.foxsports.com/midwest/story/good-things-are-happening-for-mizzou-when-do-it-all-senior-marcus-murphy-gets-touches-090814
2015 NFL Draft Preview: Missouri (RB Marcus Murphy, RS Senior: The NFL is always on the lookout for versatile skill-position players and they don't come much more versatile or productive than Murphy, who enters his senior campaign with 3,191 all-purpose yards and 17 touchdowns, scored via running (12), receiving (1), kick returning (3) and punt returning (1). Murphy scored nine of his rushing touchdowns last season as he gained more time at running back and earned All-American honors in 2012 with all four of his special teams' scores. Murphy has seen a lot of time at slot receiver in camp and appears well suited to the change. He lacks prototypical size, of course, but uses his naturally low center of gravity to remain balanced and has terrific agility and burst to go along with vision and soft hands. With a big senior season, the jack of all trades could push for a draft selection.) (8-21-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24671246/nfl-draft-missouri-preview
Fullback Prospects (Fowler):
FB Jalston Fowler:
Scouting Reports:
Alabama Profile Page: http://www.rolltide.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/jalston_fowler_643886.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/jalston-fowler?id=2552464
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737130/jalston-fowler
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/profilexnews.php?pyid=107455&draftyear=2015&genpos=FB
Jalston Fowler Scouting Report: http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/03/jalston-fowler-scouting-report/
Detroit Lions 2015 NFL draft prospect: Alabama fullback Jalston Fowler: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/04/detroit_lions_2015_nfl_draft_p_28.html
Articles:
Scouting the SEC: Alabama's top prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Jalston Fowler, FB, Redshirt Senior (5-11, 254, 4.84): NFLDraftScout.com Rank: #158 overall/#1 FB, Projection: 5th round.
After spending his first two seasons primarily as a runner and run blocker, Fowler returned from his 2012 injury and assumed more of an H-Back role, lining up in the backfield and catching the ball in the flat and on screens. He attacks the line of scrimmage with determination and power, but needs to be less of a loose cannon and add more discipline to his blocking style. Fowler isn't overly impressive in any one area, fundamentally or athletically, but he's very well-rounded as both a blocker and pass-catcher with the skill-set to serve as a versatile fullback who can line up all over and handle different responsibilities.) (4-27-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25164835/scouting-the-sec-alabamas-top-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
Trio of SEC running backs lead potential late-round steals in draft ("Some teams don't have the value for (a fullback), but Jalston Fowler can catch the ball out of the backfield," NFL Media analyst Charles Davis said on NFL Network's "Path to the Draft." "Road-grader as a run blocker up front, and, yes, he can carry the ball in short-yardage and run-out-the-clock situations. I think he's tremendous." Fullbacks might be going the way of the dinosaur in football, but any Alabama fan could tell you that Fowler's versatility could be a real asset for an NFL offense. He's unlikely to be drafted until the final few rounds, if at all, but he certainly could be a great option for a team looking for an upgrade at the fullback/H-back position.) (4-16-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000485906/article/jalston-fowler-among-sec-rbs-who-could-be-lateround-steals
Jalston Fowler impresses at Alabama Pro Day (At the Senior Bowl in Mobile in late January, Jalston Fowler wasn't happy with his weight. Tipping the scales that day at 264 pounds, Fowler vowed to be in better shape the next time he worked out for NFL teams. Whatever he did worked. In a form-fitting workout shirt, Fowler showed off the hard work that helped him drop 13 pounds at the University of Alabama Pro Day on Wednesday. Fowler heard feedback that he'll be drafted anywhere from the fourth to the seventh round in the upcoming NFL Draft. With a more in-shape physique, Fowler showed his versatile skill set, including his pass-catching ability, which he flashed during a particularly nice one-handed grab from quarterback Blake Sims. “I can play it all,” Fowler said when asked where he fits in with an NFL team. “You can put me on the line. I can block out of the backfield. I can also run the ball. I can line up at wide receiver. I'm a pretty versatile.” Fowler was told he ran anywhere from a 4.72 to a 4.75 40-yard dash. UA coach Nick Saban said a guy like Fowler is even more valuable in the NFL because of the roster limit.
“There's still some situations where guys like Jalston Fowler have tremendous value, and he's really a good match-up player on special teams,” Saban said. “I think one of the things that people don't understand when you're building a roster in the NFL, you have to take that into consideration because you only have 46 guys out there for the game. If you're not a star player, you've got to be a good special teams player.
“There's a lot of things Jalston Fowler brings value to any team that he goes to.”) (3-11-15): http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20150311/NEWS/150319888
All 32 teams went to Alabama's pro day (Fullback Jalston Fowler (5-11 1/8, 251) ran the 40 in 4.83 and 4.85 seconds, standing on the rest of his numbers from the combine. Fowler finished up his workout with a great one-handed catch. He's a well-liked player, who the coaches brag on.) (3-11-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000478272/article/alabama-pro-day-has-representatives-from-all-32-nfl-teams
Big Ten RBs turn on the jets for 40s (Fowler ran a 4.94 and a 4.96.) (2-21-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-02-21/nfl-combine-2015-running-backs-40-times-melvin-gordon-duke-johnson-ameer-abdullah-todd-gurley-draft-first-round
Lions Combine Gleanings (Alabama FB Jalston Fowler is a very real possibility in the 5th or 6th round. The Lions really liked him in Mobile and he’s proven he can catch and also carry the ball if needed. It sounds like Jed Collins would be a luxury the Lions do not bring back if pressed for cap room. Yeah, you read “Jed Collins” and “luxury” in the same sentence. Fowler would be an upgrade in my opinion.) (2-21-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/02/lions-combine-gleanings/
Alabama's Sims, Fowler, Kouandijo take good with bad from Senior Bowl (1-24-15): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2015/01/alabama_players_take_the_good.html
2015 Senior Bowl: 10 prospects who helped themselves (Although he's tagged with the fullback label, Fowler showed that he's much more than that. With only 12 carries as a senior for the Crimson Tide, he was an afterthought on that offense, but after seeing him during Senior Bowl practices, it was clear he was also underutilized. During drills, Fowler was quick through the hole with decisive quickness and the pop to brush off contact, keeping his feet and rumbling to the second level.)(1-23-15):http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/24986379/senior-bowl-10-prospects-who-helped-themselves
Ten Senior Bowl standouts (It might surprise some people to see a fullback on the list given that the position is no longer widely utilized in the NFL, but Fowler (5-11, 264) will run defenders over as a lead blocker. He also is dependable carrying the ball, not that he's asked to do so often, and has good hands to catch the ball out of the backfield. He reminds me a bit of former 49ers fullback Tom Rathman. One NFL executive told me Fowler would be a Day 1 starter for any team that still utilizes a fullback.) (1-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462487/article/washingtons-danny-shelton-among-10-senior-bowl-standouts
Senior Bowl proving valuable for Fowler (1-22-15): https://alabama.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1728137
Norris: Senior Bowl Day 1 (No college backs are good pass protectors, and there might only be a handful of reliable ones in the NFL. So rather than treat it as a negative for prospects entering the league, lets just highlight those who show proficiency in the area. David Johnson, who I see moving to an H-back role, and swiss army knife Jalston Fowler were the best on Day 1.) (1-21-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51759/351/norris-senior-bowl-day-1
2015 Senior Bowl: South Offense Scouting Preview (Former HB Fowler packed on weight and developed into a lead blocker. Experienced working as a flex TE and lead FB. Shows soft hands out of the backfield and ability to adjust to off-target throws. Not a developed route runner but effective receiver in the flats. Well-put together back that flashes the burst and powerful base to be productive ball carrier. Adds value in that he can serve as a reserve RB while contributing as a lead blocker.)(1-17-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-south-offense-scouting-preview.html
Fowler fills huge role on and off field for Alabama (12-30-14): https://alabama.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1720322
Fowler an unsung hero of Crimson Tide (12-22-14): http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2014/12/22/3481763/fullback-jalston-fowler-an-unsung.html
Fowler almost quit football after knee injury, a few people changed his mind (12-21-14): http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/index.ssf/2014/12/alabamas_jalston_folwer_almost.html
Fowler is the big dump truck in Alabama's OC's Lane Kiffin's toy box (12-3-14): http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/index.ssf/2014/12/jalston_fowler_is_the_big_dump.html
Saban appreciates maturity Fowler brings to Tide (8-5-14): http://www.annistonstar.com/sports/article_4a3fe8f4-1d09-11e4-83f6-0019bb2963f4.html
Fowler brings leadership, versatility to Alabama offense (8-3-14): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2014/08/jalston_fowler_versatility_lea.html
Fully recovered from knee injury, proud father Fowler ready to boost Alabama offense (8-6-13): http://www.al.com/alabamafootball/index.ssf/2013/08/jalston_fowler_knee_injury_rec.html
No comments:
Post a Comment