Here are fumble rates for NFL Draft running back prospects: http://nfldraftscout.com/members/news/cfb_column.php?story_id=188838
RB Kalen Ballage:
Scouting Reports:
ASU Profile: http://thesundevils.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=3939
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/kalen-ballage?id=2559995
Draftwire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/28/kalen-ballage-nfl-draft-profile/
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130788&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Articles:
Pro Day March 14: Arizona State, Oklahoma, Nebraska & More (The big story out of ASU’s pro day is Kalen Ballage and what some are calling the best pro-day workout they’ve ever witnessed from a running back. Ballage timed as fast as 4.35 in the 40 while a few watches had him in the low-4.4s. He hit 37 inches in the vertical jump, a vast improvement from his mark of 32.5 inches at the combine. Ballage was sensational during position drills and really stood out catching the ball. He looked explosive in and out of breaks and showed natural hands. The ball carrier met with the Buffalo Bills and Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets running back coach Stump Mitchell.) (3-14-18): http://draftanalyst.com/pro-day-march-14-arizona-state-oklahoma-nebraska-more
Combine: From superstars to sleepers, RBs excel (The premier event of the annual NFL Scouting Combine got off to a blazing start Friday with Arizona State’s 6-foot-2, 228-pound running back Kalen Ballage clocking in at 4.46 seconds in the 40-yard dash, only to see Penn State’s Saquon Barkley steal back the spotlight moments later by clocking a 4.41 at 233 pounds. That was an hour or so after Barkley registered a jaw-dropping 41-inch vertical jump. The explosiveness Barkley showed was no surprise, only solidifying his case as this draft’s preeminent athlete and a future top-five pick. He might go as early as No. 1 overall to Cleveland or would be a terrific fit for the New York Giants at No. 2. It was a much bigger deal for Ballage, who currently is ranked 15th on NFLDraftScout.com’s board among running backs. Ballage continued his positive offseason momentum after turning heads at the Senior Bowl. Ballage averaged just 4.3 yards per carry over the past two seasons for the Sun Devils, topping out at 669 rushing yards as a senior.) (3-2-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/02/combine-from-superstars-to-sleepers-rbs-excel/
2018 NFL combine results: Saquon Barkley isn't the only winner from Friday (RB Winner - Kalen Ballage, Arizona State. At 6-foot-1 and 227 pounds, Ballage is a physical specimen. He ran 4.46 in the 40, had a 33.5-inch vertical and a 10-foot-2 broad jump, and finished the three-cone drill in 6.91 seconds, a tremendous time for his size.) (3-2-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-results-saquon-barkley-isnt-the-only-winner-from-friday/
Running backs impress in Combine workouts (Other impressive sub-4.5 times were put in by San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny (4.46), Arizona State’s Kalen Ballage (4.46) and LSU’s Derrius Guice. All three of those players weigh 220 pounds or more, making their times even more impressive.) (3-2-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/Running-backs-impress-in-Combine-workouts/887903a5-0900-4111-8367-da3a1a815c92
RB Kalen Ballage Combine Transcript (3-1-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/01/nfl-combine-transcript-arizona-state-rb-kalen-ballage/
NFL combine sleepers: 10 under-the-radar prospects who could raise draft stock (3. Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State: One of the Football Bowl Subdivision record holders for touchdowns in a single game, Ballage never consistently delivered on his formidable physical tools. But that shouldn't stop NFL teams from envisioning what he might be able to achieve at the next level with proper coaching. At 6-2 and 227 pounds with good burst and all-purpose ability, Ballage might draw comparisons to David Johnson, though the two are far apart in their instincts as runners.) (2-28-18): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/02/28/nfl-combine-sleepers-kyle-lauletta-kalen-ballage/380502002/
5 prospects who should stand out at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine (Kalen Ballage: During his tenure at Arizona State, Ballage was unable to break out as the lead back. He was a part of a running back committee with Demario Richard, a situation which saw Ballage end up getting fewer carries than his counterpart. Needless to say, his statistics don’t necessarily scream “future NFL back”. However, it’s his physical traits that have NFL scouts showing interest in the senior. Ballage is a bigger running back at 6-2, 227 pounds. He has the physique and strength in both his upper and lower body to take on hits from NFL defenders. He’s also an impressive athlete for his size who hits the hole hard as a downhill runner. Ballage is also a reliable receiver out of the backfield, and his speed is apparent on tape when he has space to run. Ballage’s lower-body strength should help him out in the vertical and long jump. He was timed at 4.43 when he ran a 40-yard dash two years ago. If he runs in the vicinity of that time at 227 pounds, then his stock could potentially sky rocket.) (2-27-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/02/27/5-prospects-who-should-stand-out-at-the-2018-nfl-scouting-combine/
2018 NFL Draft RB prospects ready to contribute to the passing game (Kalen Ballage: Ballage is another back who did not have a strong senior season, especially in terms of his production in the passing game, but NFL teams will certainly be going back to his junior film for a better understanding of his full skill set. In 2016, he snagged 44 balls for 469 yards, earning a Power 5-leading 511 yards after the catch. His elusiveness was also outstanding, as he forced 18 missed tackles after the catch. He was top back at the Senior Bowl in terms of 1-on-1 play, as he won an impressive 80 percent of his reps and snatched 8-of-9 catchable balls thrown to him during drills. One minor concern about his game is his inconsistent hands, as he dropped 8-of-90 catchable balls thrown his way during his three years of play for Arizona State.) (2-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-rb-prospects-ready-to-contribute-to-the-passing-game
2018 NFL Combine: Here's a look at the drills and the prospects who could ace them (Vertical Jump - Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State: Ballage should put on a tremendous performance in Indianapolis, and he moves unlikely the vast majority of 6-2, 220-plus pound running backs. A vertical in the upper 30-inch range would not be surprising.) (2-23-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-heres-a-look-at-the-drills-and-the-prospects-who-could-ace-them/
2018 NFL Combine: Five prospects with the most to gain in Indianapolis (Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State: Ballage was the talk of the running backs during the week of practice at the Senior Bowl, as his twitchy athleticism was frequently on full display despite his 6-foot-2, 222-pound frame. He ran his routes with ease, bounced through cutback lanes toward daylight, and exploded through the second level when blocking was flawless. While the Arizona State standout's time in Mobile, Alabama undoubtedly boosted his stock, he's widely considered a mid-round selection at this point. If he continues his Senior Bowl momentum at the combine with one of the better performances among the backs -- especially considering his size -- he could join the second-round conversation.)(2-22-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-five-prospects-with-the-most-to-gain-in-indianapolis/
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Ballage is a guy scouts will like a lot more than coaches. He’s easy to dream on as a huge runner with home run speed and soft hands, but he showed terrible instincts at Arizona State and consistently underachieved. If Kerryon Johnson is our paragon of patience, Ballage is our hedonist of haste. He’s Mr. Magoo in David Johnson’s body. Ballage is going to be on everyone’s “Combine winners” list. His SPARQ score is going to melt Josh Norris’ eyeballs like the guy who opened the Ark in Indiana Jones. I’m sure we’ll begin to read arguments that Arizona State misused and underutilized Ballage in the same way that Tennessee did with Alvin Kamara. Don’t buy it. Kamara couldn’t usurp Jalen Hurd because Butch Jones’ creativity was relegated to rah-rah clichés and misguided notions of program optics. In Ballage’s case, former ASU HC Todd Graham did everything in his power—including visiting with Patriots coaches in the offseason—to figure out new ways to utilize Ballage’s talent. No matter the brainpower that went into figuring out how to put Ballage into the very best situations to star, Ballage undermined them with his unique brand of uncreative, station-to-station, fumble-happy football. Ballage didn’t fall behind Demario Richard because ASU coaches didn’t know what they had. ASU coaches were coaching for their lives, identified Ballage’s utility as a potential lifeboat, and gave him all the opportunities he could handle until it became clear that Richard—a far inferior physical talent—was the clearly superior RB option. Richard will be a UDFA. The situation speaks for itself. Ballage will get brazenly overdrafted and go on to win the XFL’s MVP award when that league re-opens.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
10 prospects who should light up the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine (RB Kalen Ballage: Looking at his stat sheet may not move the needle much, but Ballage proved during Senior Bowl week what he can bring to an NFL team. A large chunk of his upside rests on his combination of size and athleticism, which could draw comparisons do Arizona Cardinals star David Johnson. While that’s high praise for a player currently projected to go on Day 3 of this year’s draft, a stellar performance at the combine should be expected, and could bring his stock up considerably.) (2-14-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/02/14/2018-nfl-draft-scouting-combine-10-prospects-who-should-light-it-up/2/
Sources Tell Us: ASU's Kalen Ballage will be star of NFL Combine (The scoop: "Mark this down. Nobody will be talking about him until he gets to the Combine, where he will lift well, run well and jump out of the stadium. Then, he'll be the hot name." -- NFC team director of college scouting on Arizona State RB Kalen Ballage. The skinny: Ballage isn't necessarily a "hot name" right now, but teams are already starting to talk about him after some of the reps he put on tape last month at the Reese's Senior Bowl. At 6-foot-2 and 222 pounds, Ballage is built like a Greek God. He's an extremely talented receiver. He will be a workout warrior at the Combine, and when he puts on a show at the event, I expect comparisons to David Johnson will start to surface. However, while Ballage has pass-catching talent, his lack of vision and consistency as a running back preclude me from making that comparison.) (2-9-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000915591/article/sources-tell-us-asus-kalen-ballage-will-be-star-of-nfl-combine
15 prospects for the 2018 NFL Draft who helped themselves at the Senior Bowl (Kyle Lauletta, QB, Richmond: (Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State: (Game – Overall grade: 72.4, Practice – Key stat: Won 80 percent of his pass route in 1-on-1s.) Ballage’s receiving skills were on display during both North practices and he showed that he can be a mismatch weapon in an NFL pass offense. He was one of the better looking running backs on the field and was solid catching passes throughout practice. Maybe most importantly for him, is the fact that his physicality became clearly evident when full contact game action began. He exploded into more than one tackler falling forward for extra yardage and generated 28 yards after contact on his 10 carries. Ballage’s speed, power, physicality and receiving ability drew a lot of notice all week and specifically, in practice, he beat both safeties and linebackers in pass routes in practice with relative ease.) (1-31-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-15-prospects-for-the-2018-nfl-draft-who-helped-themselves-at-the-senior-bowl
Senior Bowl Stock Report Watch (4. Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona St.: Talent was never a question with Ballage, who checks in at 6-2 and 222 pounds with excellent athleticism and speed. It’s the on-field results that have been lacking as Ballage never fulfilled that vast potential during his time with the Sun Devils. Based on how Ballage looked in Mobile, perhaps the light is finally coming on. A threat as a runner and pass catcher out of the backfield, Ballage has the physical tools and skill set of a three-down starting running back if he can put it all together. Ballage will likely be a Day 3 selection but gave scouts plenty to think about with his performance at the Senior Bowl.) (1-30-18): www.draftcountdown.com/2018-senior-bowl-stock-watch/
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl recap: South team wins in blowout fashion (Running Back Overview - Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage’s physicality became clearly evident when full-contact game action began. He exploded into more than one tackler falling forward for extra yardage as Ballage generated 28 yards after contact on his 10 carries. Ballage also forced two missed tackles and his speed, power, physicality and receiving ability drew a lot of notice this week. His overall grade was 72.4) (1-28-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-recap
Senior Bowl 2018: What the week meant for Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen and more (Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage had 10 carries for 57 yards in the game, and receiving drills were a breeze for him all week. He even was sturdy in blitz-pickup drills. The Sun Devil alum may not be an old-school feature back in the NFL. He should be a 15-20 touch offensive option who'll thrive in space and provide above-average ability between the tackles due to his jump-cut capabilities and power when finishing runs.) (1-27-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-what-the-week-meant-for-baker-mayfield-josh-allen-and-more/?irgwc=1
South club routs North, 45-16, in Senior Bowl; Richmond QB Lauletta wins MVP (Kalen Ballage, a practice-week standout, was the North club’s leading rusher. He piled up 57 yards on 10 carries, including punishing defenders at the end of several early runs.) (1-27-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/01/27/south-club-routs-north-45-16-in-senior-bowl-richmond-qb-lauletta-wins-mvp/abp1tq1/
2018 NFL Draft watch: Top performers at Senior Bowl 2018 draft (Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State — Ballage led all rushers with 10 carries and he posted a respectable 57 yards in the game as well. Ballage is huge at 6-3, 230 pounds and is a strong runner. He routinely made defenders look small Saturday.) (1-27-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-top-performers-senior-bowl-josh-allen-kyle-lauletta-baker-mayfield-marcus-davenport/1im8igtju687z1pbkppqe2sqed
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Analysis: Ballage showed uncanny physical ability for a runner his size, displaying speed, quickness, burst and change-of-direction ability befitting of a back 15 pounds lighter. He was smooth as a receiver and efficient getting up the field while holding up in pass protection, and he helped himself enough to get strong consideration late in Day 2 or early in Day 3.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 2 recap (Iowa RB Akrum Wadley and Arizona State RB Kalen Ballage both stood out with their performances in the North team practice. Ballage’s receiving skills have been on display for both North practices this week, as he shows he can be a mismatch weapon in an NFL pass offense. While North Carolina State’s Jaylen Samuels is listed as a running back here in Mobile, he still displayed the skills that make him more of an offensive weapon without a truly defined position. Samuels can be used as a move tight end, fullback or halfback but is truly at his best as a mismatch weapon in the pass game.) (1-25-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-2-recap
2018 SENIOR BOWL DAY 3 NORTH: JAYLEN SAMUELS, KEMOKO TURAY STAND OUT (Arizona State's Kalen Ballage has continued to impress on Day 3, a consistent theme all week. Ballage flashed in college, but between being under-utilized and having a unique body type for the position, he was never able to captailize on his clear potential. Here, he's shown outstanding pass catching comfort and extension, plus bend for a taller running back, and multiple areas for easy improvement. The one thing Ballage needs to show scouts is his initial vision and gap anticipation. It's an area that, in film review of the week, he's struggle with a bit, and wasn't great today either in team drills.) (1-25-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-3-north-jaylen-samuels-kemoko
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Thurs: Ballage continued to show smooth movement skills out of his cuts and route breaks while losing no speed and effortlessly creating separation. He had one drop but caught the ball well and showed speed around the corner.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 SENIOR BOWL DAY 2 NORTH: JOSH ALLEN SHOWS PROMISE, OL STAND OUT (Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage continued to build on a strong first day and has been the most impressive back on the North roster. He isn’t necessarily explosive but he’s shown burst running between the tackles and displays impressive suddenness as a route runner. His hands have been consistent so far this week with the exception of a drop on a swing route that was thrown a little behind him. Additionally, Ballage has been impressive in 1 on 1 pass protection drills vs. linebackers and has shown the ability to recover when he gets beat. If he continues to perform at the same level the rest of the week, Ballage could experience a massive rise in his stock.) (1-24-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-2-north-josh-allen-shows-prom
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Wed: Ballage built off a strong Tuesday, showing receiver-level ball skills at times while displaying excellent juice on jump cuts. He doesn’t waste movements running side to side and held up nicely in pass protection.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Arthur Arkush's Senior Bowl Day 2 notebook: UCF TE Akins seizes his opportunity (Arizona State’s Kalen Ballage is a really big back (6-2, 221), perhaps a little stiff, but he built on a nice opening practice Tuesday by showing off some surprising receiving ability. Ballage caught 20 passes for 91 yards as a senior, down significantly from his junior year (44-469), but he beat a linebacker on a wheel route Wednesday, then showed good body control and hands to adjust to the football and secure the catch through contact.) (1-24-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/01/25/arthur-arkushs-senior-bowl-day-2-notebook-ucf-te-akins-seizes-his-opportunity/ai1cien/
Senior Bowl 2018: Observations from Wednesday's practices highlighted by Josh Allen's vintage performance (The Kalen Ballage train steamed ahead on Wednesday, as he continued to put his smooth athleticism on display in receiving drills and when he outran Oklahoma outside linebacker Ogbonnia Okoronkwo downfield on a wheel route. The Arizona State specimen also dominated in the blitz pickup drill. He's reminds me of David Johnson. That's not exaggeration.) (1-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-observations-from-wednesdays-practices-highlighted-by-josh-allens-vintage-performance/
Why the Lions should watch RB Kalen Ballage at Senior Bowl this week (Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State (North No. 27): He is, to me, the most intriguing back in Mobile. He’s 6-foot-3, 230 pounds, never had a 1,000-yard rushing season but scored 27 rushing touchdowns. He also has good hands, with 82 career catches for 684 yards and two touchdowns. He’s an athletic marvel. This AZ Central story has him with a 37-inch vertical leap and a long jump of 9-feet, 11 ¾-inches. Oh, and he can bench press 360 pounds and squat 513 pounds.) (1-24-18): http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33057/why-the-lions-should-watch-rb-kalen-ballage-at-senior-bowl-this-week
2018 Senior Bowl: Winners, losers from North team's Day 1 practice (Winner - Expectations were high for Ballage heading into 2017, but a sub-par season didn’t help the young tailback’s cause. But a strong start to his Senior Bowl week may have turned some heads, from league decision-makers to media, and everyone in between. While he’s still a work in progress, Ballage flashed the athleticism that makes him one of this year’s most intriguing prospects. Forcing multiple missed tackles in team drills and embarrassing linebackers in the passing game, Ballage might be the overall biggest winner overall from either team heading into Wednesday’s practice.) (1-24-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/24/2018-senior-bowl-winners-losers-from-north-teams-day-1-practice/
Senior Bowl Risers: Day 1 (Kalen Ballage/RB/Arizona State: We've been critical of Ballage's on-field performance during his career, but he flipped the script Tuesday. Ballage showed great burst through the hole, was quick in and out of cuts and displayed the speed to turn the corner. He also impressed as a receiver with late hands and an ability to catch balls thrown above his shoulders while looking smooth in the open field. It's not easy for running backs to stand out in padless practices, especially big ones, but Ballage did just that.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-risers-day-1
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 1 recap (The running backs are somewhat difficult to evaluate on the first day of practice as full contact is not allowed. Arizona State’s Kalen Ballage was one of the better looking running backs on the field and was solid catching passes in practice. Southern Mississippi’s Ito Smith’s quickness was on display as he made several plays during practice. Ballage dominated the day on the grade sheet as well, finishing with a 74.6, clear above the second-highest grade for a running back (62.8, Iowa RB Akrum Wadley).) (1-24-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-1-recap
2018 Senior Bowl Tuesday's Practice Report - North Team (Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage had a good practice Tuesday. He had a very impressive play in the team scrimmage. Catching a pass in the flat, he dodged a tackler and then exploded down the sideline. About 20-30 yards downfield two defensive backs closed on him, but the big Ballage could have easily run through their tackles if this were a live game. In the receiving one-on-ones, Ballage juked Citadel linebacker Myles Pierce badly to get wide open, but Ballage dropped the pass after running a superb route. Ballage also ran very well in the nine-on-seven run scrimmage session. He showed a nice jump cut in the backfield to dodge a tackler, and then had a burst to get downfield. On another carry, Ballage ripped off a good run, bouncing his carry to the outside to break into open field. Ballage had an impressive first practice showing surprising quickness to go with his size.) (1-23-18): walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018practice.php
Senior Bowl 2018: Observations from the first two practices in Mobile, Alabama (Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage was the best offensive player on the field for the North squad on Tuesday. He shook The Citadel's linebacker Myles Pierce in a pass-catching drill and was amazingly fluid in his cuts and acceleration as a runner. On one play, he smoothly bounced to the outside then outran South Carolina cornerback Jamarcus King around the corner. He ended practice with an outstanding juke on a defender who got penetration quickly after the snap.) (1-24-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-observations-from-the-first-two-practices-in-mobile-alabama/
2018 SENIOR BOWL: DAY 1 NORTH/SOUTH PRACTICE NOTES (The biggest running back standout today was Arizona State’s Kalen Ballage on the North Side. Ballage ran the ball with patience and exhibited terrific vision breaking a long run to the left without even getting touched until he was well on his way to scoring in the second level. Ballage (6021 222lbs) looked like a Latavius Murray clone at weigh-ins this morning but what was most impressive today was his ability to create separation and catch the football out of the backfield. At one point, Ballage put Citadel LB Myles Pierce in a blender after a quick shoulder feint and slant into open space.) (1-23-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-1-north-and-south-practice-re
PFF's 2018 Senior Bowl coverage (Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage looks very impressive on Day 2, easily beating Warner on an out route, beating Okoronkwo in coverage and then hauling in a touch reception that was well over his head) (1-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pffs-2018-senior-bowl-coverage
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Tues: Ballage was the best running back on the field for the North squad, showing good speed and quickness out of his cuts while catching the ball effectively out of the backfield.) (1-23-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
TWENTYMAN: Senior Bowl participants to watch (Kalen Ballage, Arizona State, 6-3, 230: A physical specimen who is going to impress a lot of people at the Combine in February with his size and speed. He rushed for 669 yards (4.3 average) and six touchdowns in 2017.) (1-23-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Senior-Bowl-participants-to-watch/50e85598-37f5-4670-af4c-5e76e25bbeb9
Senior Bowl Preview -- The Offense (If there’s an enigma at the running back position, it would be Kalen Ballage. The Arizona State product is a physical beast but rarely plays to his ability. He’s been labeled as an underachiever on the college level and will have tons of questions thrown at him during Senior Bowl interviews.) (1-21-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-preview-offense-0
Senior Bowl: Offensive prospects who'll have great value later in 2018 NFL Draft (Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State: Ballage is a freaky specimen at around 6-foot-2 and upwards of 225 pounds with blistering speed and dynamic cutting ability. The Arizona State alum is primed to be a player who's ultimately a better pro than he was in college. In 2016, we saw Ballage's rare multi-dimensional ability, as he had 536 yards rushing and 469 receiving yards on just 170 touches (5.9 yards per touch). This past season, he was part of a strict running back committee and was rarely used in the pass game. Freed from Arizona State's system in Mobile, Ballage has a fantastic opportunity to show off his electric athletic ability. Due to his lackluster film, which, in large part, was hampered by poor blocking, Ballage can be a new-age featured back in the NFL who doesn't need to be picked in one of the first few rounds.) (1-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-offensive-prospects-wholl-have-great-value-later-in-2018-nfl-draft/
Ten NFL draft prospects with most riding on 2018 Senior Bowl (6. Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State: Ballage presents a strong physical build for a running back, and has pro-caliber speed and agility. He was never the lead back for a sustained period in college, however, averaging fewer than 10 carries a game over his career. He was a factor as a receiver as a junior (44-469, one TD) but did not receive those opportunities this past fall (20-91). Showing an ability to run, catch, and pass-protect during Senior Bowl practices will give him a chance to leapfrog some of the underclassmen that make his an extremely competitive running back class.) (1-18-18): http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000907837
Scouting the Hyundai Sun Bowl: NC State vs. Arizona State (Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage is a prospect we’re lower on than many scouts, who gave him a second-round grade entering the season. He has the size (6-foot-2, 225 pounds), skill and pass-catching acumen to be a featured back at the NFL level but was never able to take full control of the Sun Devils backfield and averaged just under 4.3 yards per carry over the past two seasons. He was one of our postseason sliders and saw his receptions drop from 44 in 2016 to 19 this past season while splitting time with Demario Richard, who we grade slightly below Ballage.) (12-28-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-hyundai-sun-bowl-nc-state-vs-arizona-state
Post Season Risers/Sliders Final - Offense (Slider - Kalen Ballage/Arizona State: Ballage was graded as a second-day pick by scouts but failed to live up to expectations. He’s a physical specimen with a pedestrian game who was outclassed by teammate Demario Richard this season. He best turn it around quickly or it will be a “looks like Tarzan, plays like Jane” situation.) (12-11-17): http://draftanalyst.com/post-season-riserssliders-final-offense
Senior Bowl adds 26 players for 2018 game, including 4 QBs (Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State - Big, versatile back that's been a part of Sun Devils explosive offense in the running and passing game. Holds FBS record with 8 total touchdowns in a single game in 2016.) (12-4-17): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2017/12/senior_bowl_adds_26_players_fo.html
Stock Report: Texas OL Williams returns, shows first-round skills (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State, SR. (5-10, 220, 4.53, #20): Playing on the West Coast in a Group of 5 conference, Penny doesn’t receive nearly the attention he should, but after his performance Saturday night, there are no excuses for him not to receive more love — both as a Heisman candidate and prospect. Penny posted 429 all-purpose yards against Nevada over the weekend, which broke Marshall Faulk’s school record and ranks top-10 all-time in FBS history for a single game. He also scored four touchdowns (three different ways: rushing, kick return and punt return) and now rushed for 200-plus yards in three consecutive games. Penny leads the FBS with 1,824 rushing yards and 2,462 all-purpose yards, the latter being a school record. His kick return for a score against Nevada was the seventh in his career, which ties Clemson’s C.J. Spiller and Houston’s Tyron Carrier for the most in FBS history. Bottom line, the tape and stat sheet have been extremely impressive for Penny in 2017.) (11-20-17): http://tsxfiles.com/blog/2017/11/20/stock-report-texas-ol-williams-returns-shows-first-round-skills/
ASU rewind: Takeaways, grades and personnel notes from Oregon State win (ASU the past two games has seemed determined to get Richard and senior RB Kalen Ballage equal touches (39 carries for Richard, 40 for Ballage). In addition to Richard’s output, Ballage rushed for a season-high 103 yards. He averaged 5.4 yards per carry. The Sun Devils had eight rushes of 10-plus yards. At times, they made it look easy.) (11-19-17): https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/ncaaf/asu/2017/11/19/asu-rewind-takeaways-grades-and-personnel-notes-oregon-state-win/879262001/
Week 7 Prospect Matchups (Running back Kalen Ballage is a bit of an enigma. He possesses the measurables and underlying ability to be a feature runner at the next level, yet his production has been pedestrian and his inability to grab hold of the full-time job at Arizona State in the past three years is a red flag. When on his game, Ballage shows himself to be a complete back. He has the size to pound opponents on the inside and the quickness to turn the corner and is a legitimate pass-catching threat out of the backfield. Ballage has his work cut out for him against Washington’s linebackers, both of whom are top-60 choices.) (10-13-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-7-prospect-matchups
UW opponent first look: Arizona State will try not to get run over by the Huskies this year (RB Kalen Ballage (6-3, 230, Sr.) He averages 122.8 all-purpose yards per game, which ranks sixth in the Pac-12. He has 286 rushing yards, 275 on kickoffs and 53 receiving. The Huskies held him to 9 rushing yards on six carries last season.) (10-9-17): https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/uw-husky-football/uw-opponent-first-look-arizona-state-will-try-not-to-get-run-over-by-the-huskies-this-year/
Shimonek, Texas Tech top Arizona State 52-45 in another duel (Ballage, who finished with 56 yards in 16 carries, got the ASU rally going with a 1-yard plunge early in the second half.) (9-17-17): https://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/shimonek-texas-tech-top-arizona-state-52-45-in-another-duel-091717
Identity crisis: ASU overpowered in 30-20 loss to San Diego State (The best news for the Sun Devils: It’s only Week 2. It’s only one loss. They have plenty of time to figure things out, plenty of time to get healthy. In addition to senior running back Demario Richard, who didn’t play because of an injury, Humphrey and senior running back Kalen Ballage suffered injuries Saturday.) (9-10-17): https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/ncaaf/asu/2017/09/10/asu-football-game-vs-san-diego-state-saturday-night/650211001/
Scouting the Pac-12: Arizona State (The highest rated senior is running back Kalen Ballage, who scouts stamped as a second-rounder yet is a player we grade two rounds later. Ballage is a physical specimen who plays aggressive football, barreling over opponents and breaking tackles to pick up yardage off initial contact. He’s also a terrific pass catcher out of the backfield and shows solid run-after-catch ability. From a next-level point of view, I’m just not sure how Ballage fits in. He’s not a feature runner, he’s not a situational runner and he’s not a third-down back. He could develop into a solid rotational back, but those types of prospects usually don’t go earlier than late Day 2 or early Day 3.) (8-28-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-pac-12-arizona-state
Tuesday Draft Notes -- 2.0 (I’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback on Kalen Ballage of Arizona State, as scouts like his game and feel he could develop into a feature back at the next level. The biggest concern at this point is his pure speed, and it’s something to keep an eye on in predraft workouts.) (9-19-17): http://draftanalyst.com/tuesday-draft-notes-20
Why RB Kalen Ballage is ASU football's most improved player (9-15-17): https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/ncaaf/asu/2017/09/15/why-rb-kalen-ballage-asus-most-improved-player/671882001/
Meet Kalen Ballage, the freak athlete ready to be the next Le'Veon Bell (9-18-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/18/meet-kalen-ballage-the-freak-athlete-ready-to-be-the-next-leveon-bell/
2018 NFL draft: Pac-12 scouting preview (Biggest Wild Card - RB Kalen Ballage: One of the most impressive pure athletes in college football, Ballage will be one of the nation’s most intriguing prospects this season. A versatile weapon who averaged a touchdown every nine carries last season, Ballage also caught 44 passes out of the backfield while eclipsing 1,000 total yards on the year. Still more raw athlete than polished football player, this 6-3, 230-pound wrecking ball can greatly improve his draft stock by refining those physical skills and showing more consistency in 2017.) (8-22-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/08/22/2018-nfl-draft-pac-12-scouting-preview/5/
College football preview: Who could be next Mitchell Trubisky? (Arizona State RB Kalen Ballage - Ballage produced in a big way last fall, racking up 14 rushing touchdowns and collecting 44 receptions. He is a 230-pound back with quick feet and a home-run burst. He can pound out tough yards between the tackles and has plenty of juice to win on the perimeter. The Sun Devils plan on getting him even more involved in the passing game this fall and that has NFL scouts salivating. Ballage reminds some evaluators of former Oregon Ducks running back Jonathan Stewart.)
(8-21-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000832888/article/college-football-preview-who-could-be-next-mitchell-trubisky
2018 NFL Draft Watch: FBS Running Back Overview (Can make a big jump - Kalen Ballage, Arizona State: While Ballage has proven to be a versatile player in the pass game, there’s still room to improve as a down-to-down runner. He picked up only 0.9 adjusted yards before contact per rush, tied for third-lowest among draft-eligible running backs, so he didn’t receive much help up front. If his run blocking improves, he’s shown the patience to set up blocks and the explosiveness to create big plays when given the opportunity.) (8-10-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-watch-fbs-running-back-overview
What we learned about Darnold, Rosen at Pac-12 Media Days (4. My sleeper pick for Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year -- Arizona State RB Kalen Ballage. This is the first time I've seen the talented ball carrier in person, and he is impressive. He's all of 230 pounds and carries his weight very well. Head coach Todd Graham told us Ballage will run 4.4 or better in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine while carrying 230-plus pounds. Graham also mentioned he spent time with the Patriots' offensive staff in the offseason to find out more ways to incorporate Ballage into the passing game. He caught 44 passes last fall and I expect him to be closer to 60 catches this season. There are a lot of talented running backs around the country, but Ballage might be the best one none of us have been talking about.) (7-28-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000822864/article/what-we-learned-about-darnold-rosen-at-pac12-media-days
2018 Prospect Preview: Kalen Ballage is a proven threat on passing downs (7-28-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-kalen-ballage-is-a-proven-threat-on-passing-downs
Derrius Guice, Saquon Barkley lead top 10 RBs to watch in 2017 (8. Kalen Ballage, Arizona State: Ballage's build and running style are very similar to David Johnson's when he was coming out of Northern Iowa. I questioned Johnson's willingness to run with physicality matching his size coming into the draft and I feel that way about Ballage. But then again, I was wrong about Johnson and might be wrong here, too. Like Johnson, Ballage is an excellent receiving threat who has the ability to line up in the slot and return kicks if needed. Ballage has the type of size and skill set that could push him way up the draft board if he has a strong 2017 campaign.) (7-10-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000818768/article/derrius-guice-saquon-barkley-lead-top-10-rbs-to-watch-in-2017
17 for '17: College football's most freakish athletes (9. Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State: The Sun Devils' senior should turn plenty of heads at next year's NFL Scouting Combine. At 6-foot-3 and nearly 230 pounds, he's recorded a 37-inch vertical jump and a broad jump just a shade under 10 feet. He can squat 513 pounds, and his 20-yard shuttle time (4.03) is more like that of a cornerback than a power rusher. Last year against Texas Tech, on a 75-yard touchdown run that was one of his NCAA record-tying eight scores on the day, Arizona State's GPS technology clocked him at 21.6 mph. He's also known for having a bone-crushing handshake around the ASU football building.) (6-29-17): http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000817998
Arizona State RB Kalen Ballage ties NCAA mark with 8 TDs (9-11-16): http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/17518391/
RB Nick Bawden:
Scouting Reports:
SDSU Profile: http://www.goaztecs.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/nick_bawden_890414.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/nick-bawden?id=2559893
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=131612&draftyear=2018&genpos=FB
Articles:
Combine Notes: Day 3 Evening Report (On the injury front, I was informed that Nick Bawden, the powerful fullback from San Diego State, was diagnosed with a Jones fracture in his foot and will not work out at the combine.) (3-2-18): http://draftanalyst.com/combine-notes-day-3-evening-report
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Bawden is a strong lead blocker, but don’t pigeon hole him completely—he’s a former quarterback who can catch the ball.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: More of a blocker than a receiving threat, Bawden stood out for his awareness picking up the blitz and his strength and fundamentals as a run blocker. As a result, a team planning to run a traditional backfield may look his way at the end of the third day.) (1-26-18): draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Bawden isn't much of a threat as a receiver but shows good blocking ability and awareness, picking off free runners off the edge to allow an extra blocker to stay in the box on run plays.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: Bawden continued to look good as a blocker, showing good strength and working with a solid base in pass protection.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
11 observations from Senior Bowl Day 1 (8. San Diego State fullback Nick Bawden runs well for a large individual. I watched him during running back drills and he’s, shall we say, acceptable, if that’s the right way of saying it. But, he’s going to get paid to mash some linebackers. I saw him sift through the trash to find a South linebacker during an inside run drill and introduce himself with authority. In fact, a couple of plays later, in a similar matchup that same linebacker tried to slip the block and Bawden caught him in the chops again.) (1-23-18): http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/11-observations-from-Senior-Bowl-Day-1/b42730b7-997f-4792-8fc9-4f0d75a9b617
Senior Bowl Top 20: South squad (6. I love San Diego State fullback/H-back Nick Bawden (6-3, 245). Why were Donnel Humphrey and Penny record setting running backs at San Diego State? Well, they were very good, but Bawden was instrumental in opening lanes for those two backs the past four years.) (1-22-18): http://www.houstontexans.com/news/article-2/Senior-Bowl-Top-20-South-squad-/02410200-e536-4793-bad7-cc6685b6d2c5
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 2 Bowls (Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State: It isn't easy for a fullback to earn an invitation to the Senior Bowl as the event only has a very limited number of them competing in Mobile. There are fullbacks all across college football striving to get one of those few spots at the Senior Bowl. One of the fullbacks who earned one of those elusive invitations year is Bawden. The 6-foot-3, 245-pounder has the size to be a lead blocker in the NFL and is a good athlete, having played quarterback early in his collegiate career. Bawden has caught 15 passes per season over the last two years, totaling 240 yards and a touchdown. He could work himself into being a third-day pick in the 2018 NFL Draft with a strong performance at the Senior Bowl.) (12-26-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_17.php
Senior Bowl adds 26 players for 2018 game, including 4 QBs (Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State - 2016 Pro Football Focus First-Team All-American. Began his career at quarterback before switching to fullback to become the lead blocker for one of the nation's best ground games.) (12-4-17): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2017/12/senior_bowl_adds_26_players_fo.html
3 Things We Learned in the Aztecs' Win over New Mexico (2. Nick Bawden found a home at fullback. Senior Nick Bawden came to SDSU four years ago as a quarterback. He even made two starts among five appearances during the 2014 season as a true freshman before being switched three years ago to fullback. Obviously, he found his true calling. Bawden is a bruising blocker who led the interference for first D.J. Pumphrey and now Rashaad Penny to become 2,000-yard running backs. They are the first teammates in NCAA history to accomplish it in back-to-back years, making Bawden the only fullback who has ever cleared the way. Beyond that, Bawden proved an able receiver — even with his right hand wrapped like a club most of the season. Three weeks ago, he hurdled a San Jose State defender to reach the end zone for his first career touchdown. On Friday, with his right hand healed and unencumbered he used it to impressively throw a would-be New Mexico tackler off him to gain extra yardage. “I'm having so much fun doing what I'm doing now,” said Bawden, whose clean-cut media guide mugshot looks nothing like the long-haired guy who sat for a postgame press conference looking like he was ready to head right back out for another four quarters. “I can't imagine still being at quarterback, honestly. I don't know what that would be like. I get to play real football now. “No offense to (Christian) Chapman. Chapman is one of the toughest guys on the team. I get to go around and hit people, man. I have so much fun doing that. Blocking for guys like (Penny) and Pumph the past couple of years have been a blessing. I couldn't be in a better position now.” Professional scouts have taken note of Bawden the past two years and he’s expected to have an opportunity at the next level that likely wouldn’t have been there if he was still playing quarterback.) (11-25-17): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-azfoot-3-things-learned-vs-new-mexico-1126-story.html
Converted QB Bawden becoming beast at fullback (10-19-17): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-aztecs-20161018-story.html
RB Nick Chubb:
Scouting Reports:
Georgia Profile: http://georgiadogs.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=1033
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/nick-chubb?id=2559846
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130784&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018nchubb.php
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/31/nick-chubb-nfl-draft-profile/
Articles:
Five Lions targets who raised their stock with the NFL Combine (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: The Lions are interested in the running backs this year, something Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia emphasized when they spoke in Indianapolis. This year's had plenty to choose from, and the drills helped separate much of the pack. Nick Chubb was a clear winner for the way he was able to show absurd athleticism despite his size and mileage. He had the sixth-best 40-yard dash time at 4.52 seconds and the fourth-best vertical jump at 38.5 inches. He's 5 feet 11 inches and 227 pounds, and he backed that power profile up by tying Saquon Barkley with 29 reps on the bench press. If you tie Barkley at anything, odds are you are pretty good, and it's getting hard to find holes in any part of Chubb's profile after he ran for the second-most rushing yards in Southeastern Conference history behind a certain Herschel Walker. Chubb is still probably more of a second-rounder right now but someone the Lions should eye as a run-down complement to Theo Riddick.) (3-7-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/03/5_lions_targets_who_rose_durin.html
10 players who just missed the latest mock draft (Nick Chubb: Chubb regained his freshman-year form last season with an 87.8 overall grade and an elusive rating of 96.2 that ranked fifth in the class. He has big-play capability, but also does a fine job of taking what is blocked by his offensive line and he could have a very productive career in the proper setting. Chubb is right on the cusp of first-round status, thought positional value of running backs make him a better option in the second.) (3-7-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-10-players-who-just-missed-the-latest-mock-draft
10 players who impressed at 2018 Combine (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: This is a very talented and deep group of running backs, and some natural separation was going to happen at the Combine. Chubb really helped himself with his performance. His 40 time of 4.52 was impressive for a 227-pounder. He tied Barkley with 29 bench press reps, and was second among running backs in the broad jump (10’8”) and fourth in the vertical (38.5).) (3-6-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/10-players-who-impressed-at-2018-Combine/2b4985ee-0538-47e3-9b45-0033d5d6ddf0
My pick for the Lions, and some other combine thoughts (If the Lions go another direction in the first round -- and I think they will -- they are still going to have several options to add a No. 1-type back. Georgia's Sony Michel and Nick Chubb have to be in that conversation in the second round.) (3-6-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/03/172f0fa645/my_pick_for_the_lions_and_some.html
Combine confidential: Inside look at the juiciest developments (Based on where you could get the Georgia running backs, Nick Chubb and Sony Michel, one GM told me he'd rather wait for one of them than draft Barkley where you'd have to take him.) (3-6-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000919761/article/combine-confidential-inside-look-at-the-juiciest-developments
Video - Georgia running back Nick Chubb runs a 4.52 40-yard dash (3-3-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Georgia-running-back-Nick-Chubb-runs-a-452-40-yard-dash/5ee41f9b-2bff-4c26-abdf-ee01c3a9e090
O'HARA: Nick Chubb's resume puts him in top handful of RBs (3-2-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/OHARA-Nick-Chubbs-resume-puts-him-in-top-handful-of-RBs/cbfe9cc4-152a-44a2-a077-694c869310d4
2018 NFL Combine Stock Report - Running Backs (Nick Chubb: Saquon Barkley stood out with 29 reps on the bench press - until Nick Chubb posted the same number! Chubb wasn't as good in the 40 (4.52), but he notched 38.5 inches in the vertical and 10-8 in the broad jump. Sony Michel was the Georgia running back who entered the combine with all the acclaim, but Chubb definitely brought some attention to himself.) (3-2-18): http://walterfootball.com/combine2018stockRB.php
Combine: From superstars to sleepers, RBs excel (If there was any question as to why Nick Chubb started over Sony Michel for most of his career at Georgia it may have been answered Friday with the bigger back Chubb (5-11, 228) proving to be even faster and more explosive than his smaller, albeit quicker former teammate. With the exception of Barkley, Chubb turned in perhaps the best overall workout by a back Friday, clocking in at 4.52 seconds with a 38.5-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot, 8-inch broad jump and matching the Penn State star with 29 repetitions in the bench press. To be clear, Chubb’s terrific performance wasn’t entirely unexpected, as he excelled in a similar setting as a prep at the SPARQ testing championships in 2013, but that was before suffering a significant left knee injury in 2015. Chubb’s terrific performance puts him squarely in the top-50 conversation and could make him the first senior running back selected.) (3-2-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/02/combine-from-superstars-to-sleepers-rbs-excel/
2018 NFL combine results: Saquon Barkley isn't the only winner from Friday (RB winners - Nick Chubb, Georgia. If it weren't for lab experiment Barkley, Chubb would be the talk of the combine at the running back position. Overcoming a torn knee igament and turning an outstanding combine performance makes me think Chubb is part alien or robot or something. At 227 pounds, Chubb had a 38.5-inch vertical, a 10-foot-8 broad jump and ran a 4.52 in the 40. Quality film, excellent production, and a tremendous combine. It isn't out of the question that Chubb goes in the first round.) (3-2-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-results-saquon-barkley-isnt-the-only-winner-from-friday/
Running backs impress in Combine workouts (Georgia’s Nick Chubb had an impressive two days of workouts. He matched Barkley’s 29 reps on the bench Thursday, and was second in the broad jump (10’8’’), which helps measure explosiveness. He ran 4.52 seconds in the 40 at 227 pounds.) (3-2-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/Running-backs-impress-in-Combine-workouts/887903a5-0900-4111-8367-da3a1a815c92
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Studs - Nick Chubb (Georgia) didn’t make my Friday Combine preview list because of his struggles in pass protection, but he gave the Lions something to think about with his elite explosion scores. Chubb’s 29 reps on the bench press, 38.5-inch vertical and 10-foot 8-inch broad jump were incredibly impressive numbers in categories the Lions place a high value on. Chubb didn’t alwasy look natural catching the ball, but his on-field positive output far outweighed any negatives today. He should be in the conversation for the Lions on Day 2 of the NFL draft.) (3-2-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Recap of OL and RB (Sony Michel ran a somewhat surprising 4.54 in the dash compared to the time of his teammate, the presumed slower back, Nick Chubb who finished with a time of 4.52.) (3-2-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-recap-of-ol-and-rb
2018 NFL combine results: Saquon Barkley, Nick Chubb turn heads on the bench press (Nick Chubb is rather impressive physically too. I mean, after a 1,547-yard, 14-touchdown campaign as a freshman in 2014, he was averaging 8.1 yards per carry before his knee-ligament tear ... then toted the rock 447 more times and accumulated 2,475 rushing yards (5.53 yards per carry) with 23 scores on the ground. Both decorated running backs gave a glimpse of their physical prowess on Thursday at the combine on the bench press. Barkley -- who measured 6-foot and weighed in at 233 pounds on Wednesday -- did 29 reps on the bench, an astounding number at the running back spot. Chubb, the former Georgia star, did 29 reps of his own, as the two led the way at their position in that event. He measured in at 5-foot-11 and 227 pounds on Wednesday.) (3-1-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-results-saquon-barkley-nick-chubb-turn-heads-on-the-bench-press/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Day 2 News and Notes (Georgia running back prospect Nick Chubb also posted 29 reps. Only five offensive linemen posted better numbers than the running back duo. The running back average at the 2017 NFL Scouting Combine was 17.) (3-1-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-day-2-news-notes
Thursday's winners, losers at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine (Winner - When he suffered a gruesome knee injury in 2015, nobody would have been surprised if Chubb had never played another down of meaningful football. Instead, he bounced back with two highly productive seasons, and is already showing off his physical prowess at the combine. Measuring in at just shy of 5-11 and 227 pounds, Chubb is another rare athlete among this year’s deep running back class, with incredible explosiveness to go with the power you’d expect from a back his size. He’s off to a great start in Indy, and hopefully his medical evaluations are equally as encouraging as his bench press numbers.) (3-1-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/01/thursdays-winners-losers-at-the-2018-nfl-scouting-combine/3/
TWENTYMAN: Comparing the top six running back prospects (Nick Chubb - School: Georgia (senior); Ht/Wt: 5-10, 227; Draft projection: Rounds 3-4; Total rushing yards: 1,345; Rushing Yds per game: 89.7; Yds per attempt: 6.0; 20-plus yrd runs: 19; TDs: 15; Twentyman: Chubb has been through it all. Injury. Four years in the SEC. Carrying the load and then splitting it. He’s a tough, one-cut, no nonsense kind of ball carrier. Quotable: “I’m pretty well balanced,” Chubb said. “I’m pretty athletic. I can jump high. Jump out. I can run fast. I catch the ball well. I mean, it’ll be fun to go out there (Friday) and compete with the other guys and have fun.”) (3-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Comparing-the-top-six-running-back-prospects/cb2a9a10-fa6b-47bc-8fb7-d649f73aef1e
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: 5 offensive prospects with the most to lose (After a gruesome leg injury ended his sophomore season too early, Chubb battled back and put up huge numbers over the past two seasons, earning his way to the top of the Bulldogs and SEC record books. An excellent back with great size and the ability to win at every level of the field, Chubb has all the tools to be a star at the next level. While he’s likely to wow scouts with his rare combination of size and athleticism, Chubb’s medical evaluations will be the most important part of his combine experience. In a deep running back class, he could lose some serious ground if teams have serious concerns about his long-term durability.) (3-1-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/01/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-5-offensive-prospects-with-the-most-to-lose/3/
Running back measurements: Barkley impresses at Combine (The Georgia senior running backs, Sony Michel and Nick Chubb, weren’t at the Senior Bowl, so teams were eager to get updated measurements from them. Michel is 5-10 5/8-inches and 214 pounds. Chubb is 5-10 7/8-inches and 227 pounds. Both came in as expected.) (2-28-18): http://nfl.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/28/running-back-measurements-barkley-impresses-at-combine/
10 to watch at NFL combine: Arden Key, Nick Chubb, Lamar Jackson top list (RB Nick Chubb, Georgia: Chubb suffered a gruesome left knee injury when he tore three ligaments (but not the ACL) in 2015. He rebounded with twp productive seasons, but NFL teams will spend plenty of time prying around Chubb’s knee. If concerns linger, the potential Day 2 pick could be off some teams’ boards.) (2-27-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/02/27/nfl-combine-arden-key-mark-walton-lamar-jackson/376443002/
NFL combine: 10 players with something to prove (3. Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: After logging 758 carries, 4,769 rushing yards and 48 total touchdowns in his career, Chubb is a proven entity. But even though his savvy as a one-cut runner should earn him more than a few fans, teams will want to see how his change of direction and long speed stack up to the elite backs in the class. Medical evaluations will also be key after he tore multiple knee ligaments in 2015.) (2-27-18): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/02/27/nfl-scouting-combine-10-players-something-prove-lamar-jackson/375476002/
Why Derrius Guice, Josh Adams, Sony Michel should get good looks from Lions at combine (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: He was a very consistent back, with three of his four seasons over 1,000 yards – including 1,345 yards and 15 touchdowns this past season. He also gained at least 5 yards per carry every year of his career. The thing to watch will be his left knee. He ran fine on it last year, but the nasty injury will likely get looked at again by league doctors. The Lions could get some intel from one of their own here, too, as his cousin is linebacker Brandon Chubb.) (2-26-18): http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33319/why-derrius-guice-josh-adams-sony-michel-should-get-good-looks-from-lions-at-combine
Pat Caputo - 5 potential Detroit Lions NFL Draft picks at 2018 Scouting Combine (1. Nick Chubb, running back, Georgia - Sony Michel or Nick Chubb? You hear so much about the two standout running backs from Georgia you might think they are the same player. They are not. Michel averaged more yards per carry in 2017, but Chubb is the bigger (5-11, 230 pounds) and stronger inside runner, and therefore fits the Lions’ needs better. He ran a 10.6 100 meters in high school and was a shot put champion. He reportedly had a 40-inch vertical leap. Chubb played every bit as well as Rams’ star Todd Gurley after replacing him midway through the 2014 season. The big question is whether Chubb is still that athletic after total reconstructive knee surgery prior to the 2016 season. He remained a terrific runner at UGA, but we’ll know after the combine if Chubb is still an extraordinary athlete.) (2-24-18): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20180224/pat-caputo-5-potential-detroit-lions-nfl-draft-picks-at-2018-scouting-combine
Ten running backs worth pursuing in free agency/2018 NFL Draft (6. Nick Chubb, draft prospect: I really like Barkley, as most do, but Chubb looks to be the most mature runner in this draft class. He runs with patience and has good knee lift and great balance. The Georgia product is a split-legged runner, meaning he is always in step punch mode, breaking plenty of tackles and having enough speed and burst to go downfield (maybe not 80 yards, but 50). Chubb does a great job of getting his shoulders square, giving him the advantage against defenders.) (2-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000917079/article/ten-running-backs-worth-pursuing-in-free-agency2018-nfl-draft
NFL combine preview: Running backs worth considering for the Lions (Nick Chubb, Georgia: People aren't joking when they say this draft is loaded -- just loaded -- at running back. The Lions could go another direction on Day 1, and still get an instant starter on Day 2. Chubb certainly qualifies as a candidate. Operating out of the most crowded backfield in the country, he still managed to reel off 1,098 yards in 2017, and averaged 6.2 yards a touch. He's explosive, has great vision and churns out yards after contact. Like, 3.9 yards per carry after contact. And one could argue there's no greater skill to have if you're going to try to make a living as a running back in Detroit, whose run blocking has been, shall we say, suspect.) (2-21-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_combine_preview_running_ba.html
NFL Combine preview: Key medical evaluations (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: Although he has stayed relatively healthy the past two seasons, Chubb suffered a gruesome knee injury as a sophomore, tearing the PCL, MCL and LCL (but not the ACL). Are there any long-term worries?) (2-21-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/21/nfl-combine-preview-key-medical-evaluations/
Detroit Lions 2018 NFL draft fits (1.0) (RB Nick Chubb, Georgia: Michel's teammate at Georgia, Chubb was just as productive during his four seasons at the school. Medical evaluations will be key for him as he had a serious knee injury as a sophomore.) (2-19-18): https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/02/19/detroit-lions-2018-nfl-draft-fits-10/110597050/
2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Nick Chubb - Best trait: He runs with a low center of gravity, and is very good at shedding contact for extra yards. He’s a classic between the tackles runner, who rushed for 1,345 yards and 15 touchdowns for the national runner-up this season. As a freshman in 2014, he rushed for 1,547 yards and 14 touchdowns, and also caught 18 passes. Concern: He wasn’t used much on third down the last three years, and that could limit him some in the NFL. He suffered a knee injury in 2015 that NFL doctors will be sure to check out thoroughly at the Combine. Skinny: Chubb has the size and the smarts to be a good first and second-down back in the NFL. He’s not a home-run threat, but he moves the pile and always seems to be going forward.) (2-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675
Roquan Smith, other prospects whose draft stock changed in CFP championship game (Stock Down - Nick Chubb, RB: Chubb's not the type of runner who typically thrives against Alabama. Nick Saban's two-gap defense -- with ultra-talented linemen -- makes it nearly impossible to move the ball up the middle, where Chubb has made a living for four years at Georgia. His stock won't take a huge hit, but it's possible that many view Sony Michel as the Georgia back with more potential in today's NFL. ) (1-10-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/roquan-smith-other-prospects-whose-draft-stock-changed-in-cfp-championship-game/
Alabama vs. Georgia: Nick Chubb, Sony Michel, Jalen Hurts headline title game stars (Running back Nick Chubb: It's hard to say Chubb is underrated at this point, but he could be slightly undervalued even though he's been a four-year staple of this offense. Chubb has three 1,000-yard rushing seasons and would have had a fourth if he hadn't missed half of the 2015 season due to a knee injury. If college football's running back position hadn't been so deep and talented over the past few years, Chubb would probably be getting more attention.) (1-9-18): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/alabama-vs-georgia-nick-chubb-sony-michel-jalen-hurts-headline-title-game-stars/
What we learned from scouting National Championship Game (4. I wished Georgia could have kept RB Sony Michel going because he had the hot hand early. He showed off his agility with a long run in the first half against Alabama. I like Michel a little bit better thanPBulldogs RB Nick Chubb as a prospect. Michel can get to the edge a little bit better, and tonight reinforced that against a fast defense. Michel was able to get outside. Chubb's more of a banger inside.) (1-9-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000904478/article/what-we-learned-from-scouting-national-championship-game
Three reasons Georgia lost the CFB Playoff championship game (Michel was great in the first half, including a 26-yard run to convert on a third-and-20. He finished with 98 rushing yards on 14 carries, but had just six touches in the second half. The Alabama defense was keyed on Chubb, who led Georgia with 1,320 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns this season. He had just 25 yards on 18 carries on Monday. Yet Chaney kept feeding Chubb in the second half and he had just 5 yards on eight carries.) (1-9-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/ncaa-football/news/georgia-alabama-cfbplayoff-national-championship-three-reasons-bulldogs/1sr7s8pbd4xde119yasvm2nv44
NFL Draft 2018 could offer hope for Lions in form of these 10 running backs (Nick Chubb, Georgia: Running backs who dominate the toughest defensive conferences of college football over a healthy sample size end up being the prospects who are a step above at a fairly difficult position to project. Nick Chubb is that and more as the No. 2 all-time rusher in SEC history with 4,744 career yards, and he still has Monday's national title game to go. He was the back to follow in Todd Gurley's footsteps at Georgia, and the two actually boast the exact same career yards per carry mark at 6.4. At a listed 5 feet 10 inches and 222 pounds, Chubb has good long speed and has taken strides with vision and burst, though he doesn't have much of a track record as a receiver. He comes with lots of mileage as well as the gruesome knee injury that wiped out half of his 2015 season, but he's rebounded so well from that that he could be a late first-round pick in this draft, right around when the Lions are selecting.) (1-8-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_10_running_back_prosp.html
Alabama vs. Georgia: Which prospects may interest Lions in NFL draft? (RB Nick Chubb (No. 27): Chubb and Michel split the backfield load for Georgia this season, with Chubb running for more yards (1,320 to 1,129) and Michel scoring more rushing touchdowns (16 to 15). Chubb (5-10, 225) would be in the NFL already if it weren't for a serious knee injury he suffered in 2015. He appears to have returned to form, but medical evaluations will factor into his draft stock.) (1-8-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/08/national-championship-game-detroit-lions-nfl-draft/1012497001/
Best pro fits for 2018 NFL draft prospects in the College Football Playoff final (Nick Chubb, RB: It’s been an incredible career for Chubb, who burst onto the scene in 2014, filling in for an injured Todd Gurley and even outperforming the superstar in some aspects. Chubb has dealt with injuries throughout his four years at Georgia, but this was his best season since that breakout freshman campaign, as he averaged a career-high 3.9 yards after contact per rush and forced 56 missed tackles on only 205 rushes. He’s an efficient runner who can maximize what the run-blocking gives him while tacking on a little extra with his speed and power. The Redskins, Seahawks, and Buccaneers could also use that efficiency in their respective run games, and while Chubb is unlikely to be a first-round pick, he’d make a fine Day 2 addition to any of those teams.) (1-3-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-best-pro-fits-for-2018-nfl-draft-prospects-in-the-college-football-playoff-final
Ask 5: Which RB in national title game will have best NFL career? (Here's the question I posed to five NFL personnel executives this week: Which running back from this game will have the best pro career? Here are their answers. Executive 1: Georgia RB Nick Chubb - "A couple years from now, we might say (Najee Harris) from Alabama or (D'Andre Swift) from Georgia, but for the draft-eligible guys -- it's Chubb. He's so steady. He has better play speed than you initially give him credit for and he rarely goes down on first contact. He's built to withstand the rigors of the NFL." Executive 2: Chubb - "It is so close in talent between all of these backs, it will probably come down to team/scheme fit. I have very similar grades on Harris, Chubb and Michel. The Sony Michel bandwagon is picking up steam around the league, but Chubb would be my choice. I just love his style and the way he's wired." Executive 3: Chubb - "This is a really tough call. I think Chubb's talent and running style will translate the best to the next level. My gut feeling says that (D'Andre) Swift will end up being the best of the bunch in time. He's so explosive, but he still has a lot to learn.") (1-3-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000902315/article/ask-5-which-rb-in-national-title-game-will-have-best-nfl-career
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Georgia's Sony Michel, Nick Chubb among New Year's Day standouts (If Georgia is to win the national title, it will need another performance like it saw from running backs Chubb and Sony Michel. The duo set a new record for most combined rush yards in a single game with 326 and combined for five touchdowns. Chubb is projected to be a higher draft pick and Michel didn't help his cause with a fumble which was returned for a Oklahoma touchdown. April's draft will be crowded with running backs but Chubb should lead the way with a Day-2 selection.) (1-2-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospects-georgia-oklahoma-clemson-alabama-michigan/fwcmwnj971cr1q7a1z9svole7
2018 NFL draft: Top prospects to watch in the National Championship (RB Nick Chubb: One of the most impressive athletes in all of college football, Chubb’s combination of size, power and explosiveness is extremely rare. A powerful back with an ideal NFL frame, it’s nearly impossible for one tackler to bring him down without some help. Chubb’s only red flag is a devastating knee injury he suffered as a sophomore, but he’s bounced back by averaging over 1,200 yards and double-digit touchdowns on the ground over the past two seasons. Even in this year’s deep running back class, he should go somewhere on Day 2, likely sooner than later if his medical evaluations are positive.) (1-2-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/02/2018-nfl-draft-georgia-alabama-top-prospects-national-championship/4/
Top prospects shine, Georgia shocks Oklahoma in double-OT Rose Bowl (Chubb and Michel combined for 326 yards and five touchdowns on just 25 carries, averaging over 10 yards per carry between them.) (1-1-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/01/rose-bowl-georgia-oklahoma-baker-mayfield-roquan-smith-nick-chubb-sony-michel/
Top 10 NFL Draft prospects in College Football Playoff (Nick Chubb and Sony Michel - The Georgia backfield duo has been both healthy and highly productive this season, things with which both Chubb and Michel have struggled over their college careers. Chubb offers great physicality, patience and power as an interior runner who works best after contact and finishes inside runs with slow-building speed. Michel, on the other hand, boasts lightening-fast acceleration and quickness, planting and exploding upfield to finish big plays with narrow running lanes. While smaller and more reliant on speed, Michel offers enough power and physicality to work as a more complete running back in the NFL level, more than he does now at Georgia.) (1-1-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/list/nfl-draft-prospects-college-football-playoff-clemson-oklahoma-georgia-alabama/1vy9nwy052uw61fchjhw9156mm/slide/1
2018 NFL Draft: 24 prospects to watch in the College Football Playoff semifinals (RB Nick Chubb: Chubb probably would've gone in the second or third round of the 2017 draft, and he solidified his stock with another strong campaign with the Bulldogs. He averaged 6.2 yards per carry with 13 rushing scores. Chubb isn't a home-run hitter but his experience shows in his vision and cutting off blocks to efficiently move downfield.) (1-1-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-24-prospects-to-watch-in-the-college-football-playoff-semifinals/
2018 NFL Draft prospect watch: CFP Semifinal Rose Bowl (Quarterback Jake Fromm has had a strong freshman season for the Bulldogs, but the running back duo of Nick Chubb and Sony Michel is the lifeblood of the Georgia offense. Chubb has forced 52 missed tackles on the ground this season, helping him rank fifth in elusiveness among draft-eligible backs. Michel is not far behind in the category at eighth, as he has forced 32 missed tackles on just 132 rushes. Michel has also been excellent in pass protection throughout his career, giving up just one sack and no quarterback hits on 150 total pass-blocking snaps.) (12-31-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospect-watch-cfp-semifinal-rose-bowl
Top 25 future NFL stars to watch in New Year's Day bowl games (20. Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: Game: Rose Bowl vs. Oklahoma, It seems like many running backs are being compared to Frank Gore nowadays, as analysts try to give Gore his rightful due for a stellar career. Chubb really does remind me of Gore, though, in the way he churns through traffic using his thick legs and torso. He's also capable of lowering his pads into contact, reducing his strike zone and pushing through the pile to create yardage. The Sooners might not think he's the fastest back, but his lateral foot quickness can open a lane that he can accelerate through quickly to break off runs of 15-20 yards before they know it.) (12-29-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000899828/article/top-25-future-nfl-stars-to-watch-in-new-years-day-bowl-games
The Rundown on Rushers (Nick Chubb, Georgia: Chubb isn't a burner, but his contact power and balance is outstanding. Defenders bounce off of him repeatedly in the games I studied. He reminds me of Jonathan Stewart, although Chubb doesn't have quite the same top speed that Stewart possesses.) (12-15-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000893205/article/browns-could-be-juggernaut-5-bowls-that-will-shape-nfl-draft
Tuesday Draft Notes -- 13.0 (I was surprised to hear several area scouts grade Georgia running back Sony Michel ahead of his teammate Nick Chubb. They believe Michel’s game projects better to the next level compared to Chubb’s and that both will end up in the draft’s second round. At this point it’s not an opinion I share, as I think highly of Chubb and believe he will be a first-round selection.) (12-6-17): http://draftanalyst.com/tuesday-draft-notes-130
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Ronald Jones as ready to contribute as Sam Darnold (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia — Chubb rushed for 77 yards on 13 carries and passed Kevin Faulk for third all-time on the SEC rushing list. Chubb is big and strong and durable, and honestly with missing a year with a knee injury he was able to save some tread on his tires for when he inevitably gets a chance with an NFL team.) (12-3-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-ronald-jones-as-ready-to-contribute-as-sam-darnold/7yasck2t95t1ztbtz1337xd0
Georgia's top prospects deliver, Bulldogs get revenge on Auburn for SEC title (Freshman D’Andre Swift put the nail in Auburn’s coffin with a 64-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, but the two-headed monster of Nick Chubb and Sony Michel churned out the tough yards throughout the game. Both expected to be among the top running backs chosen in the 2018 draft, Chubb and Michel combined for 122 yards on 20 carries, averaging over six yards per attempt between them. Chubb had 7 missed tackles forced on just 13 rushing attempts. He also had 53 rushing yds after contact.) (12-2-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/02/georgia-auburn-sec-championship-game-roquan-smith-nick-chubb-sony-michel/
Georgia LB Smith looks impressive in SEC title game (Though Chubb was overshadowed slightly by Swift's big run and Smith's terrific performance, he lived up to the pregame hype, passing former Kevin Faulk (LSU) and Darren McFadden to rank second only to the legendary Herschel Walker on the SEC's career rushing list, gaining 77 yards on 13 carries to give him 4,591 yards with the possibility of two more games remaining.) (12-2-17): http://nfldraftscout.com/members/news/cfb_column.php?story_id=183921
Top 17 future NFL stars playing on CFB Championship Weekend (16. Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia - Game: SEC championship vs. Auburn, Saturday, 4 p.m. ET, CBS; 2017 stats: 178 carries for 1,098 yards (6.2 average), 13 TDs.: Chubb will pound and gash opposing defenses with power and a burst once he's in the open field. He reminds me of Frank Gore with his build and ability to wear down defenses.)(11-30-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000885496/article/top-17-future-nfl-stars-playing-on-cfb-championship-weekend
Week 12 Risers and Sliders (Risers - Nick Chubb/RB/Georgia: The Kentucky contest was a nice rebound game for Chubb, who was held to 27 rushing yards against Auburn one week ago. The Wildcats boast one of the better rushing defenses in the SEC and rank just below Auburn in yards allowed per game (121.9). Chubb shredded the Wildcats for 151 yards on 15 carries with two TDs. The Georgia ball carrier is often lost in the shuffle, as much of the talk focuses on Saquon Barkley of Penn State while his own teammate Sony Michel steals a bit of thunder. Make no doubt about it: if Chubb checks out medically, he’s worthy of being selected in the late portion of Round 1 and projects as a feature runner for the next level.) (11-20-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-12-risers-sliders
2018 NFL Draft watch: UCLA’s Josh Rosen outperforms USC’s Sam Darnold (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia — The 5-10, 225 pound senior running back keeps on trucking for the Bulldogs, as he tallied 151 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries in Georgia's 42-13 win over Kentucky.) (11-19-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-sam-darnold-josh-rosen/wcrj5u02jkal14f2wulzw389y
2018 NFL Draft watch: Marquee matchups help sort out top prospects (While Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield shined, running backs like Notre Dame's Josh Allen and Georgia's Nick Chubb struggled on Saturday. As for Adams and Chubb, two of the nation's top running backs, they had a tough go of it. On a day when Chubb passed Bo Jackson for fourth on the SEC's all-time rushing list, he was limited to 27 yards on 11 carries in a 40-17 loss to Auburn as the top-ranked Bulldogs were upset in a big way.) (11-12-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-georgia-auburn-wisconsin-alabama-sooners-baker-mayfield/4m6o4ag7agcu154a1o4xnphzs
Nick Chubb, Sony Michel shut down as Auburn destroys Georgia (The Bulldogs boast one of the best running back tandems in the nation, but both Nick Chubb and Sony Michel were bottled up by the Tigers, rushing for a combined 48 yards on 20 carries. Chubb capped off an impressive opening drive that gave the Bulldogs an early lead, but that would be the their only trip to the end zone until the game’s final minutes, when things were well out of hand.) (11-11-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/11/georgia-auburn-nick-chubb-sony-michel/
Nick Chubb passes Bo Jackson on SEC's all-time rushing list (11-11-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/11/nick-chubb-passes-bo-jackson-on-secs-all-time-rushing-list/
2018 NFL Draft watch: Baker Mayfield, Mason Rudolph add bedlam to QB rankings (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia — Chubb helped Georgia to its first 9-0 start since 1982 by running for 102 yards on 20 carries. Despite splitting carries this season, Chubb has proven he is over last season's injury. At 5-10, 225 pounds, Chubb projects as a volume runner at the next level capable of handling a large workload. He already has nine touchdowns and four 100-plus yard games this season.) (11-4-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-baker-mayfield-mason-rudolph-rankings-bedlam/1nqmgy8t220dx151uu2tz8fxrn
Sony Michel, Nick Chubb run wild as Georgia destroys Florida (The Bulldogs’ two-headed running back monster of Sony Michel and Nick Chubb combined for 214 yards and three touchdowns on just 19 carries, averaging 11.2 yards per attempt between them.) (10-28-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/28/sony-michel-nick-chubb-run-wild-as-georgia-destroys-florida/
Chubb boosting stock; Scout not sold on Mayfield as NFL starter (The scoop: Over the past couple of weeks, three NFL evaluators have told me that they see a much better version of Georgia RB Nick Chubb than they saw last season, when he was making his return from a severe knee injury. All three believe he will be drafted higher in 2018 than if he had entered the 2017 draft. The skinny: I might completely throw away Chubb's 2016 season when I write up his 2018 NFL Draft profile because that timid, sluggish player we saw a year ago is gone. Throughout 2016, Chubb appeared to be hampered both physically and mentally by the gruesome leg injury that ended his 2015 season. He ran for a very respectable 1,130 yards and 8 TDs in 2016, but Chubb opted to come back to school for the 2017 season to try to improve his draft stock, and he has done just that. He's much more explosive as an interior and outside rusher. He also looks much lighter on his feet while eluding tackle attempts. Chubb already has as many TD runs as he had in 2016, and he's averaging nearly 2 yards per carry more than he did last season. It's worth noting that Georgia has been able to limit Chubb to 16 or fewer carries in every game so far this season.(10-12-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000860319/article/chubb-boosting-stock-scout-not-sold-on-mayfield-as-nfl-starter
2018 NFL Draft watch: Luke Falk's draft stock continues to rise with another good outing (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia — Chubb is fast, strong, and will be one of the top running backs off the board next spring. Saturday against an overmatched Vanderbilt team, he rushed 16 times for 138 yards and two TDs. With 38 career rushing touchdowns he's now second all-time in UGA history to Herschel Walker (49).) (10-8-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-ncaa-fbs-football-highlights-scores-stars-luke-falk/1m7sly686i6hj1sbtvmwi9od9h
Grading the Dawgs win over Vandy (Running Backs: A+: This game was essentially all about the Dawgs’ ground game. On the first drive alone, Nick Chubb gained 69 rushing yards, including a 33-yard score. The senior from Cedartown didn’t stop there, as he finished with 138 yards on 16 carries and two touchdowns.) (10-8-17): http://www.11alive.com/article/sports/grading-the-dawgs-win-over-vandy/481744713
Nick Chubb, Sony Michel run wild as Georgia destroys Vanderbilt (The two-headed monster in the Georgia backfield tore up the Commodores early and often, racking up nearly 300 yards on the ground between them. Chubb became just the eighth player in SEC history to rush for over 4,000 yards in a career, and has a chance to lock up the No. 2 spot on the conference’s all-time list before the season is over.) (10-7-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/07/nick-chubb-sony-michel-georgia-vanderbilt-nfl-draft/
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Saquon Barkley continues to showcase his skills (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia — Chubb, and his backfield-mate Sony Michel, helped the Bulldogs cruise to a 41-0 win over Tennessee. Chubb, a 5-10, 225-pound senior, ran for 109 yards on just 16 carries while Michel, a 5-11, 215-pound senior, had 11 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown as Georgia completed just seven passes in the rout.) (10-1-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-saquon-barkley-nick-chubb-jordan-chunn-troy/1k1zpddd3xptb1kdw4vx901pf2
Georgia, TCU jump into top 10 of AP Top 25 poll after big wins (The Bulldogs jumped into the top 10 after a 31-3 blowout win over Mississippi State, landing at No. 7 in this week’s rankings. Georgia was led by one of this year’s top running back prospects, Nick Chubb, who rushed for 80 yards and a pair of touchdowns.) (9-24-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/24/georgia-tcu-jump-into-top-10-of-ap-top-25-poll-after-big-wins/
Nick Chubb's breakout game will wait as Bulldogs top ND (9-9-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000841265/article/nick-chubbs-breakout-game-will-wait-as-bulldogs-top-nd
Drew Lock on rise; 2 RBs who could follow Kareem Hunt's path (Early Projection, Comp for Nick Chubb - Chubb had a productive effort against Appalachian State in Week 1, racking up 96 rushing yards and two scores. After studying that game on tape, I came away impressed with Chubb's power and balance. He's at his best working between the tackles and grinding out tough yards. He doesn't quite have the burst or top speed he possessed as a younger player, but he did flash some elusiveness in space. He reminds me a little bit of the Bears' Jordan Howard. It might not always be flashy, but he gets the job done. There's plenty of time for him to showcase his ability this fall, including a big game Saturday against Notre Dame, but I think he's likely to be a middle-round pick in the spring, assuming his knee checks out medically. -- Daniel Jeremiah) (9-8-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000840145/article/drew-lock-on-rise-2-rbs-who-could-follow-kareem-hunts-path?campaign=tw-cf-sf112582349-sf112582349&sf112582349=1
Five senior prospects who will be NFL starters in Week 1 2018 (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: The Bulldogs have two very talented backs in Chubb and Sony Michel, and both might end up starting in the NFL. If Chubb can stay healthy, he'll be considered a feature back right out of the chute because of his combination of vision, power and quickness.) (9-7-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000839659/article/five-senior-prospects-who-will-be-nfl-starters-in-week-1-2018
After knee injury, Georgia RB Nick Chubb has NFL back in sight (9-6-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000839736/article/after-knee-injury-georgia-rb-nick-chubb-has-nfl-back-in-sight
2018 NFL Draft Watch: FBS Running Back Overview (Keep an eye on Georgia’s Nick Chubb who wasn’t completely himself last season as he came off injury, forcing a missed tackle every 5.7 carries compared to one every 3.6 carries in 2014 and 2015. A return to form will have him back in the first-round mix as an every-down option.) (8-10-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-watch-fbs-running-back-overview
2018 Prospect Profile: Nick Chubb looks to regain pre-injury form in 2017 (8-10-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-profile-nick-chubb-looks-to-regain-pre-injury-form-in-2017
Top 5 FBS players, per position, entering the 2017 season: Offense (Nick Chubb, Georgia - The Good: Maximizes what the run blocking gives him, picks up yards through contact, and finished third in the nation with an elusive rating of 113.3 as a true freshman in 2014. Room to Improve: Production has decreased as he forced a missed tackle once every 3.6 carries in 2014 and 2015, but only one every 5.7 carries in 2016. Can he put together an injury-free, dominant 2017?) (8-7-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-top-5-fbs-players-per-position-entering-the-2017-season-offense
Georgia RB Nick Chubb eyeing top-10 status in 2018 NFL draft (7-13-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/07/13/georgia-rb-nick-chubb-eyeing-top-10-status-in-2018-nfl-draft/
What we learned: Antonio Callaway likened to Julio Jones (2. Chubb eyeing top-10 status. Georgia coach Kirby Smart said improved draft status was among RB Nick Chubb's motivations for returning to UGA for his senior year, and naturally, Chubb is aiming high. "(Leonard) Fournette and (Christian) McCaffrey went top 10. That's just amazing to me, knowing that if I do have a great season, or any other running back has a great season, we can get up there in the top 10," Chubb told SEC Network. Chubb's name hasn't buzzed in the offseason as one of the nation's top backs, as it has with Penn State's Saquon Barkley and LSU's Derrius Guice, but Chubb sees the spotlight on them as a place he's already visited. "I've been in that position where I was considered one of the top backs, and it's hard to stay consistent," he said.) (7-11-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000819136/article/what-we-learned-antonio-callaway-likened-to-julio-jones
Derrius Guice, Saquon Barkley lead top 10 RBs to watch in 2017 (7. Nick Chubb, Georgia: Based on last season's tape, Chubb should not be in this spot. However, I'm assuming that Chubb will see some of the burst and speed return that I saw before he suffered the gruesome leg injury in 2015. Chubb has plus field vision and generally makes smart reads when attacking the line of scrimmage. His contact balance and ability to run with pop behind his pads was unchanged in his return to the field last season. This season, he needs to prove he's in shape and his burst has returned in order to push his way up the 2018 draft board.) (7-10-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000818768/article/derrius-guice-saquon-barkley-lead-top-10-rbs-to-watch-in-2017
FB Dimitri Flowers:
Scouting Reports:
OU Bio: http://www.soonersports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209396451
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/dimitri-flowers?id=2560135
Draft Scout: http://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_profile.php?pyid=131306
Articles:
OU football: Only one NFL team didn't speak with Dimitri Flowers during Senior Bowl week. Which one? (1-30-18): http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/ousportsextra/ou-football-only-one-nfl-team-didn-t-speak-with/article_ed63fbd9-430a-5c3d-81c3-882e72397b58.html
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: Flowers lumbers about the field and generally lacks burst and flexibility, but he showed skill in the passing game and proved to be enough of a threat as a receiver that opponents will have to respect him even if he lacks exciting ability once the ball is in his hands, although he's little more than a last-day pick for a team that uses fullbacks in the passing game.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: Looks very stiff and is just a small-area player. Isn't much of an offensive threat but did make a solid basket catch for a touchdown in a contested situation.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Flowers made one of the highlight plays of North practice with a one-handed catch up the seam after fighting through contact, but is generally a slow mover and lost a soft fumble on a fullback drive.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018 NFL Draft: 24 prospects to watch in the College Football Playoff semifinals (FB Dimitri Flowers: A fullback by position title, Flowers is a smooth mover who can lay the wood on a lead-block. At 6-foot-2 and 237 pounds, with plus athleticism, he very well could be productive in a true H-back role in the NFL. Flowers caught 23 passes for 411 yards with four touchdowns this season.) (1-1-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-24-prospects-to-watch-in-the-college-football-playoff-semifinals/
Sooners' FB Flowers drawing greater attention from defenses (11-8-17): http://newsok.com/sooners-fb-flowers-drawing-greater-attention-from-defenses/article/5571415
OU football: Dimitri Flowers and Keith Jackson are touchdown makers in offenses not built around them (10-17-17): http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/ousportsextra/ou-football-dimitri-flowers-and-keith-jackson-are-touchdown-makers/article_f9710b38-3251-576b-82de-620650c1b080.html
This week in Oklahoma football: Revisiting Dimitri Flowers' big game against ISU, Mayfield's efficiency and more (Last year against Iowa State, Dimitri Flowers was already an established do-it-all fullback. But when he lined up as a running back and finished with 115 yards on 22 carries, plus a receiving touchdown, there was no more understating Flowers’ value. “A lot of people didn’t know I could do it,” Flowers said. “Of course me, I’m just having that smirk on my face like, ‘Of course I can.’” Coach Lincoln Riley said the Sooners scrapped together a plan that night, and Flowers came through. Since, of course, Flowers has continued proving his versatility, most recently lining up as a wildcat quarterback — we’ll call it the WildFlowers package — and rushing in a goal-line touchdown. “It’s a good little changeup we throw in this offense, and it’s been successful for us,” Flower said. How will the Sooners use Flowers against Iowa State? That’s anyone’s guess, but don’t be surprised if he keeps touching the ball.) (10-4-17): http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/ousportsextra/this-week-in-oklahoma-football-revisiting-dimitri-flowers-big-game/article_9a44a0e6-abb5-55b6-917b-e36b0c29fa56.html
Oklahoma football: Dimitri Flowers helps Sooners to victory (Flowers had the most receiving yards for Oklahoma. He had seven receptions for a total of 98 yards. His 36-yard touchdown catch was the second-longest reception of the game, behind only sophomore wide receiver Mykel Jones's 42-yard grab. After Flowers, senior wide receiver Jeff Badet had the next most receiving yards, with 82 yards between five catches.) (9-10-17): http://www.oudaily.com/sports/oklahoma-football-dimitri-flowers-helps-sooners-to-victory/article_afc461e6-95d8-11e7-9e1d-4f8ac97d449a.html
WATCH: Oklahoma responds as Baker Mayfield finds Dimitri Flowers for the TD (9-9-17): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/video/watch-oklahoma-responds-as-baker-mayfield-finds-dimitri-flowers-for-the-td/
Why Dimitri Flowers is the most overlooked player at OU — and among the most underrated in college football (8-24-17): http://newsok.com/why-dimitri-flowers-is-the-most-overlooked-player-at-ou-and-among-the-most-underrated-in-college-football/article/5561297
RB Royce Freeman:
Scouting Reports:
Oregon Profile: http://goducks.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=7246
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/royce-freeman?id=2559843
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/20/royce-freeman-nfl-draft-profile/
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130821&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
NFL draft profile: No. 50 — Oregon RB Royce Freeman: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/03/07/nfl-draft-profile-no-50-oregon-rb-royce-freeman/ah04p0/
Articles:
2018 NFL Combine Stock Report - Running Backs (Royce Freeman: Royce Freeman ran faster than expected at the combine, getting a 4.55 40 when it was believed that he'd be in the 4.6s. Better yet, his 3-cone time was a stellar 6.90. That itself is a great figure, but especially for a running back nearing 230 pounds. Freeman could've propelled himself into the second round with his showing in Indianapolis.) (3-2-18): http://walterfootball.com/combine2018stockRB.php
Combine: From superstars to sleepers, RBs excel (Two other big backs whose ultimate draft grades may hinge as much on medical grades as anything helped reassure scouts of their athleticism. Alabama’s 6-1, 232-pound Bo Scarbrough (4.52) and Oregon’s 5-11, 234-pound Royce Freeman (4.54) showing terrific straight-line speed. Scarbrough finished just an inch shorter than Barkley with an explosive 40-inch vertical and Freeman showed off the sweet feet and change-of-direction that bely his bulk, registering a 6.90-second three-cone drill and a 4.16-second short shuttle that ranked among the best of any running back tested Friday.) (3-2-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/02/combine-from-superstars-to-sleepers-rbs-excel/
2018 NFL combine results: Saquon Barkley isn't the only winner from Friday (RB Winner - Royce Freeman, Oregon. One of the more stoutly built running backs in this year's class at 5-foot-11 and 234 pounds, Freeman displayed surprising twitchiness on Friday. He had the third-fastest three-cone time (6.90), ran a 4.54 40 and had a 34-inch vertical and a 10-foot-2 broad jump.) (3-2-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-results-saquon-barkley-isnt-the-only-winner-from-friday/
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Studs - The surprise of the day for me was the performance from Royce Freeman (Oregon). Freeman tested well in all drills, hitting above-average in most, and showed excellent lateral agility in the on-field drills. He has already formally met with the Lions at the Combine and did enough today to make me want to go back and review his game tape. He’s a name Lions fans should be paying closer attention to.) (3-2-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Day 2 News & Notes (Other notable running back bench press numbers: Sony Michel (22), Josh Adams (18), Mark Walton (18), Royce Freeman (17), Derrius Guice (15), John Kelly (15), Bo Scarbrough (14), Kerryon Johnson (11).) (3-1-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-day-2-news-notes
Players who most stand to gain (or lose) from their showings at the Combine, be it in measurement, medical check, athletic testing or team interviews (Oregon RB Royce Freeman -- In a deep running backs class, we feel Freeman’s being a little overlooked. This is nothing new. We feel he was oddly overlooked throughout his career in Eugene, too. The 40-yard dash will be a critical hurdle for Freeman to overcome. Anything under 4.55 seconds in the event should be considered a victory and would keep him in the mix for a Day 2 pick. Over 4.60 and we would be somewhat alarmed.) (2-27-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/78152/321/combine-question-corner
Ten running backs worth pursuing in free agency/2018 NFL Draft (9. Royce Freeman, draft prospect: Freeman racked up 5,621 rushing yards (5.9 yards per carry) and 814 receiving yards in four years at Oregon. He can be a great asset out of the backfield, but he is also a very deliberate runner, as he won't run into a pile recklessly. The 5-11, 231-pound back has the great ability to lower the hitting surface for a bigger runner and has some sweet feet for his size. A Le'Veon Bell-type player, Freeman has good lower-body strength to break tackles -- but doesn't always break them due to subpar knee drive and footwork at times. Freeman was a shotgun runner in college. Can he run from the dot?) (2-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000917079/article/ten-running-backs-worth-pursuing-in-free-agency2018-nfl-draft
NFL combine preview: Running backs worth considering for the Lions (Royce Freeman, Oregon: Was named Pac-12 offensive rookie of the year, when he racked up 1,365 yards and 18 touchdowns. That'd be a career season for most backs. But Freeman topped it -- twice. He'd go on to become the leading rusher in FBS history. As you might recall, the Lions already drafted the then-leading receiver in NFL history in Ryan Broyles. But Broyles had a whole lot of tread on those tires, it never really worked out, and that's the concern with Freeman as well. He touched the ball 1,026 times on offense at Oregon. In today's NFL, with teams churning through backs faster than ever, that could be held against him. But he's a great talent, too, with a knack for seeing the hole, making one cut and turning it upfield. The Lions could really use a back like that. If they haven't added one by the start of Day 3, Freeman could get an long look.) (2-21-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_combine_preview_running_ba.html
NFL Combine preview: Athleticism key for these prospects (Royce Freeman, RB, Oregon: Freeman was never the fastest or most explosive running back, but he appeared to lose a step following his injuries last season as a junior. Matching numbers to his athleticism will be interesting for evaluators.) (2-21-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/21/nfl-combine-preview-athleticism-key-for-these-prospects/
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Freeman is a big, bruising back who can do a lot of different things. He gets dinged for having a lot of wear on his tires and for accruing his (monstrous) stats in Oregon’s wide-open offense against thin boxes, but the skill set is extremely intriguing. His draft position is heavily dependent on his testing numbers at the Combine. If he tests better than expected, his stock will soar.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Royce Freeman - Best trait: A grind-it-out kind of back with terrific production over his college career. He rushed for more than 1,350 yards and scored at least 16 touchdowns in three of his four seasons at Oregon. Concern: He touched the ball 1,026 times in college between rushes and receptions. That’s quite a bit of tread on those tires. Skinny: Freeman is a bigger back with a history of production. He’s Oregon’s all-time leading rusher. Guys don’t reach that status without being really good at what they do. If he can prove he can stay on the field on third down, with his size, he’ll garner interest from a number of teams.) (2-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675
2018 Senior Bowl preview: Running Backs (Royce Freeman: One of the nation’s most productive runners over his four-year career with the Ducks, Freeman racked up 5,621 yards and 60 touchdowns on the ground. A versatile, three-down playmaker, Freeman has been a consistent receiving threat out of the backfield, as well. After an injury cut short his 2016 season, Freeman surprised some by returning to Eugene for his senior season, considering how many touches he’d already gotten at that point in his career. While some teams might be concerned about his workload, this year’s deep class could make him a huge bargain on draft weekend.) (1-18-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/18/2018-senior-bowl-preview-running-backs/2/
NFL Draft 2018 could offer hope for Lions in form of these 10 running backs (Royce Freeman, Oregon: One of the criticisms of the Lions backfield has been its lack of a power back. Royce Freeman would be that kind of player. He's a listed 6 feet and 238 pounds, a bruiser who plays in an up-tempo gimmicky spread offense at Oregon that opened him up some clear holes between the tackles. He topped 900 yards each season, including 1,475 this season. He scored 60 times on rushing plays, which should inspire a Lions organization that has had its struggles running near the goal line. Freeman might not have the speed or moves to be a feature back, but he'd be an intriguing Day 2 or 3 option for a Lions team that already has Theo Riddick to handle third downs.) (1-8-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_10_running_back_prosp.html
Scouting the Las Vegas Bowl: Boise State vs. Oregon (The first Oregon Duck on our board is running back Royce Freeman. Freeman enters the game with 244 attempts for 1,475 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns; he caught 14 passes for 164 yards, as well. Freeman is our ninth-ranked draft-eligible running back -- the third-best senior -- and was featured in our Week 2 Risers and Sliders. He doesn’t play with the breakaway speed that we’ve all become accustomed to in Oregon running backs, but he plays with great instincts and vision. Freeman has received a second-round grade from us and will be playing in the 2018 Senior Bowl. Unfortunately for us viewers, he announced on December 14 that he will not be playing in the game in order to prepare for the NFL Draft, so we've seen the last of Freeman in a Ducks uniform.) (12-15-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-las-vegas-bowl-boise-state-vs-oregon
Oregon’s Royce Freeman to sit out bowl game to stay healthy for NFL draft (12-14-17): http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/12/14/oregons-royce-freeman-to-sit-out-bowl-game-to-stay-healthy-for-nfl-draft/
Sources Tell Us: Roquan Smith rising; Buzz for Royce Freeman (The scoop: "I think he might be better than people are going to give him credit for. He was hurt all of last year and (Oregon) changed up the run scheme, which kept him between the tackles. With better blocking in front of him, I'm not so sure that he's not still that same kid we saw as a sophomore." -- AFC personnel director on Oregon RB Royce Freeman. The skinny: Freeman didn't accidentally become the rusher with the seventh-most yards in FBS history (5,621). I love his size and consistent production, but he will have to prove that he has the ability to create for himself while facing more defenders in the box than he was used to seeing at Oregon. Freeman is less punishing as a runner than other backs his size (listed at 6-foot, 238 pounds) and some scouts question his ability to be anything more than a grinder at the next level. He's a big back with good instincts and footwork. He could easily find his way into a starter's role early in his NFL career. Freeman will not play Saturday in Oregon's bowl game (Las Vegas Bowl vs. Boise State), but he has accepted an invitation to participate in the Reese's Senior Bowl.) (12-14-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000892832/article/sources-tell-us-roquan-smith-rising-buzz-for-royce-freeman
2018 NFL draft prospects to watch during college bowls, Week 1 (Oregon RB Royce Freeman - Freeman’s best year was his sophomore campaign of 2015, when he forced an incredible 80 missed tackle on 283 rushes. His play dipped a bit in 2016, but he was back to his elusive ways this year with 50 missed tackles forced on rushes. That ranked fifth among running back prospects with at least 150 total touches in our elusive rating, and considering his body of work and size, he is a legitimate Day 2 prospect for this year’s draft. He will not play in the Las Vegas Bowl, but he’s a name to remember.) (12-1-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-going-bowling-2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-week-1
2018 NFL Draft watch: Top quarterbacks shine during rivalry week (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — The 6-foot, 212-pound junior ran for 104 yards and his 17th touchdown of the season and even threw a 3-yard touchdown pass in Saturday's 26-14 win over No. 1 Alabama. Johnson has gone under the radar, but has everything you'd want in an NFL back. There is some concern after he left Saturday's game with an injury.) (11-26-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-top-quarterbacks-baker-mayfield-lamar-jackson-riley-ferguson/niqa8v9dwulg13qy412pxzm8g
Royce Freeman breaks Pac-12 career record for rushing touchdowns with his 60th rushing TD (11-25-27): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/25/royce-freeman-breaks-pac-12-career-record-for-rushing-touchdowns/
MTS Notebook: Scout says Nick Bosa 'same player' as Joey (Oregon RB returning to form - With all of the talented running backs on the West Coast, Oregon's Royce Freeman has been flying under the radar this season. After battling through injury in 2016, he looks like the young back who had everyone buzzing back in 2014 and 2015. He has a hulking build (he's listed at 238 pounds) and he runs with outstanding leverage and power. He isn't a burner when he breaks free, but he has some niftiness to make defenders miss in space. Freeman is closing in on 1,000 rushing yards and he's already tallied 10 rushing touchdowns. He's functional in the passing game as both a blocker and receiver, although he'll most likely be a two-down back at the next level. He reminds me a little bit of Samaje Perine, a fourth-round pick out of Oklahoma in the 2017 draft. I could see Freeman fitting into that Rounds 3-4 range in the 2018 draft. -- Daniel Jeremiah) (10-27-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000867444/article/mts-notebook-scout-says-nick-bosa-same-player-as-joey
Royce Freeman leaves Oregon's game against Cal with injury (9-30-17): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2017/09/royce_freeman_leaves_oregons_g.html
Week 2 Risers and Sliders (Royce Freeman/RB/Oregon: The Nebraska defensive line was expected to be one of the strengths of the team's defense, yet Freeman mercilessly shredded them. The senior pounded the Blackshirts for 153 yards on 29 carries (5.3 yard average), punching the ball into the end zone twice. And while Freeman still shows himself to be a one-dimensional interior back, watching him against Nebraska makes me believe Freeman could play in a zone-running scheme.) (9-11-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-2-risers-sliders
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Weekend Overview, Week 1 (Oregon RB Royce Freeman had a subpar 2016, and while he debuted against Southern Utah of the FCS, seeing 150 yards, four touchdowns, and six missed tackles forced was a good way to kick off 2017. There’s still more to see from Freeman as the schedule gets difficult.) (9-4-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-watch-weekend-overview-week-1
PFF Draft Watch: Royce Freeman has a strong debut (9-4-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-royce-freeman-has-a-strong-debut
Oregon's Royce Freeman racks up 4 TDs in big win vs. Southern Utah (9-3-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/03/oregons-royce-freeman-racks-up-4-tds-in-big-win-vs-southern-utah/
Scouting the Pac-12: Oregon (Royce Freeman raised eyebrows in January when he decided not to opt for the draft and chose to return for his senior season. The big-bodied back was very likely a second-day selection, a grade he’s received entering the 2017 campaign. Freeman is a well-rounded ball carrier who does the little things well. He pounds defenders on the inside while also displaying the agility necessary to turn the corner. He does a terrific job picking up blocking assignments and plays physical football. What Freeman cannot do is create yardage or improvise when the blocking breaks down. He’s not a back for everyone but could be productive in the right scheme at the next level.) (8-29-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-pac-12-oregon
Oregon's Royce Freeman: Marcus Mariota can win NFL MVP in 2017 (8-14-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/08/14/oregons-royce-freeman-marcus-mariota-can-win-nfl-mvp-in-2017/
Top 5 FBS players, per position, entering the 2017 season: Offense (Royce Freeman - The Good: Impressive size/speed combination and finished with an elusive rating of 108.6 in 2015, tied for fifth in the nation. 2nd in breakaway percentage at 51%. Room to Improve: Disappointing 2016 marred by injury and fewer carries, can he bounce back. 20.9 percent of his carries with for no gain or negative yardage, 14th highest among draft-eligible running backs last season.) (8-7-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-top-5-fbs-players-per-position-entering-the-2017-season-offense
2018 Prospect Preview: Oregon RB Royce Freeman closing in on all-time rushing mark (8-1-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-oregon-rb-royce-freeman-closing-in-on-all-time-rushing-mark
Derrius Guice, Saquon Barkley lead top 10 RBs to watch in 2017 (5. Royce Freeman, Oregon - Freeman is an impressive physical specimen who immediately checks the boxes for height (5-11), weight (231), speed, and production (4,148 yards rushing and 44 rushing TDs in three seasons). He has benefitted from a space-based offense that has allowed him opportunities to run at some light defensive fronts from a numbers standpoint and there are times he doesn't run as physically as you might expect from a player his size. However, he does have natural power and the ability to out-race linebackers around the corner. Big backs with big-play speed and an ability to help on third downs are a rarity that's usually coveted in NFL circles.) (7-10-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000818768/article/derrius-guice-saquon-barkley-lead-top-10-rbs-to-watch-in-2017
Scouting Reports:
Morningside Bio: https://www.morningside.edu/athletics/meet-a-mustang/bubba-jenkins/
Articles:
NFL Draft Bible Player Spotlight: Bubba Jenkins (1-23-18): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raBEJLaYyuA
Four Mustangs named All-Americans (1-2-18): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/basketball/college/digest-usd-s-duffy-recognized-for-play/article_ae5303b0-68ce-5f9e-8f1d-55ab97f1319d.html
Jenkins proves to be perfect fit for Mustangs (Senior running back Bubba Jenkins was also named to the team after rushing for 2,160 yards and 28 touchdowns) (11-26-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/jenkins-proves-to-be-perfect-fit-for-mustangs/article_d99c26ef-3977-52f4-9c46-151f46ee1a60.html
School record number of sacks sends Morningside back to national semis (Junior quarterback Trent Solsma and senior running back Bubba Jenkins combined to lead the offense to a 552-yard day. Solsma aired it out in the second half throwing for 335 yards and four touchdowns while Jenkins ran for 183 yards and recorded two TDs. Jenkins went over 2,000 yards on the season in the first half as he ran 19 times for 151 yards and a touchdown at the break. That brought him to 2,055 yards and joined him with former Morningside and Bishop Heelan standout Brandon Wegher as the only Mustang backs to rush for 2,000 yards in a single season. “I love those little short runs but if you stay with it you are going to pop one eventually,” said Jenkins, who has now rushed for 2,087 yards this season. “I just knew today – I was really feeling it today, I was feeling it before the game – I was going to have a big day. Not just me the whole offense.”) (11-25-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/school-record-number-of-sacks-sends-morningside-back-to-national/article_e07a30e0-7974-5090-8719-89ed1f9128ec.html
Morningside marches into quarterfinals (Things got no better for the Warriors to start the second half as they had to start on their own 6 and Butler's first pass was picked off by Deion Clayborne. Jenkins, who finished with 153 yards on the grond, ran the ball on four of the five plays on the drive ending with a 2-yard TD rush.) (11-18-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/morningside-marches-into-quarterfinals/article_6eb787ba-477b-5375-9a9f-66ffa4e0758b.html
Mustangs wrap up GPAC title (Bubba Jenkins, a senior transfer from Southwest Baptist, rushed for 133 yards on 28 carries to lead a Morningside ground game that picked up 226 yards.) (11-11-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/morningside/mustangs-wrap-up-gpac-title/article_12b8a37b-14fa-57b2-8131-a454ba3baa82.html
No. 4 Morningside clinches share of GPAC (Running back Bubba Jenkins continued his torrid pace with 154 yards and two touchdowns. After Solsma scored on a 1-yard run early in the first quarter, Jenkins stretched the lead to 14-0 with a 4-yard TD run. Arnijae Ponder would make it 21-0 in the first quarter on a 7-yard TD run. After Niles' TD reception Jenkins would score on a 1-yard dash into the end zone. Jenkins now has 1,618 yards rushing this season and 23 touchdowns.) (11-4-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/no-morningside-clinches-share-of-gpac/article_14681df2-cc36-5483-8b17-0506a3d5350c.html
Midland tests Mustangs but defense responds (It was a 10-play drive with nine runs, capped by Bubba Jenkins’ 7-yard TD run – his second of the day – that sealed the win. Jenkins went over 200 yards for the fourth time this season and the second straight game. He ran the ball 22 times in the second half and finished with 228 yards. Morningside struggled on offense to open the second half losing a Jenkins fumble on its first drive and punted on its second. Another lost fumble and a turnover on downs kept the Warriors in it, but the Morningside defense did enough to slow down Midland quarterbacks Payton Nelson and Garry Cannon.) (10-28-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/midland-tests-mustangs-but-defense-responds/article_a0b9cd81-f242-5109-b7c5-6bab545e3623.html
Mustangs run wild on Broncos (Morningside senior Bubba Jenkins ran for 238 yards and two scores -- going over 1,000 yards for the season in the process -- and the fourth-ranked Mustangs collected 392 yards on the ground in a 56-16 GPAC victory at Olsen Stadium in a game that was delayed 40 minutes to start because of lightning on Saturday. “It is just the bond between me and my linemen,” said Jenkins of his big day that ended with him at 1,236 yards on the season. “Me personally getting along with the plays, knowing how they work, where the cutback would be. Everything is clicking.” Jenkins, who went over 200 yards in a game for the third time this season, feasted on the Hastings defense. “I love playing against 3-3 stack,” said Jenkins of the Bronco alignment. “You have three linemen and three linebackers that is cool. I know my linemen are going to get it done. Stretch plays going outside, going inside, it was a great day for the linemen today.”) (10-21-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/mustangs-run-wild-on-broncos/article_4fa49e96-eb6e-5d4a-8ec1-d4219ba1ea6b.html
Morningside overpowers Briar Cliff (Bubba Jenkins found the end zone four times with the first coming on a 49-yard sprint. That was followed by TD runs of nine, four and one. Jenkins finished the first half with 11 carries for 131 yards which left him just shy of 1,000 yards at 998.) (10-14-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/morningside-overpowers-briar-cliff/article_7f7b7fa9-cf80-5775-92ae-3cf9e2b5694e.html
No. 4 Morningside blitzes DWU on homecoming (Solsma threw four touchdowns in the opening half and Jenkins ran for a pair of scores to go into halftime with a 42-7 lead. Solsma had touchdown passes of four yards to Sam Akins, 27 yards to Ver Steeg and tosses of 22 and three yards to Niles. Jenkins, who had 155 yards on the ground in the first half, got the scoring started as he ripped off a 47-yard TD as he got the corner and raced to the end zone. That score was set up when Jason Lupkes recovered a Luke Loudenburg fumble on DWU’s opening possession of the game.) (10-7-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/no-morningside-blitzes-dwu-on-homecoming/article_b6f2b0cd-caab-54ae-8ec1-82300c915296.html
Morningside deals Northwestern first loss (Morningside running backs Bubba Jenkins and Arnijae Ponder did the rest to drain the fourth quarter clock. Jenkins scored on touchdown runs of nine and three yards as he finished with 190 yards on the ground and three TDs.) (9-30-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/morningside-deals-northwestern-first-loss/article_083f5e90-f583-5f25-9a6d-0c329694d77c.html
Jenkins, Morningside offense roll past Dordt (Morningside running back Bubba Jenkins ran for 201 yards and three touchdowns as the fourth-ranked Mustangs opened up GPAC play with a 62-23 victory over Dordt at Olsen Stadium Saturday.) (9-16-17): http://siouxcityjournal.com/sports/football/college/morningside/jenkins-morningside-offense-roll-past-dordt/article_1da5c0e8-09c1-501d-bf65-3366d31a8dc8.html
RB Derrius Guice:
Scouting Reports:
LSU Profile: http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209872494
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/derrius-guice?id=2560101
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=1002682&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/07/13/georgia-rb-nick-chubb-eyeing-top-10-status-in-2018-nfl-draft/
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018dguice.php
Articles:
My pick for the Lions, and some other combine thoughts (Lions got options at RB - This is a good year to need a running back. The Lions won't have a shot at Saquon Barkley, who is destined for a top-five pick, but Derrius Guice and Ronald Jones could be in play for the 20th overall pick. I like Guice more of the two, as a big, athletic back who can make one cut and then run over everything in his way. In other words, basically the opposite of what the Lions have trotted out there with Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick. I talked to some people here who actually prefer Jones for Detroit, but Jones wasn't able to do much after pulling out of the combine with a hamstring injury.) (3-6-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/03/172f0fa645/my_pick_for_the_lions_and_some.html
NFL combine winners, losers: Saquon Barkley, Josh Allen create big buzz (Winners - Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: After an injury-riddled 2017, he reminded scouts why he engendered so much hype as Leonard Fournette's successor. The hard-nosed Guice ripped off a 4.49-second 40-yard dash and looked smooth, fueling comparisons to a young Marshawn Lynch. Guice helped solidify his case to be the second or third back taken in a group that's deep behind Barkley.) (3-6-18): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/03/05/nfl-combine-winners-losers-draft-saquon-barkley-josh-allen/396404002/
Video - LSU running back Derrius Guice runs an unofficial 4.49 40-yard dash (3-3-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/LSU-running-back-Derrius-Guice-runs-an-unofficial-449-40-yard-dash/b4fe5015-7d23-4971-a983-6b2b22dc4ccc
LSU RB Derrius Guice: If you don't draft me, I'm going to give you hell (3-2-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/03/if_the_lions_pass_on_derrius_g.html
Running backs impress in Combine workouts (Other impressive sub-4.5 times were put in by San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny (4.46), Arizona State’s Kalen Ballage (4.46) and LSU’s Derrius Guice. All three of those players weigh 220 pounds or more, making their times even more impressive.) (3-2-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/Running-backs-impress-in-Combine-workouts/887903a5-0900-4111-8367-da3a1a815c92
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Studs - With Ronald Jones (USC) injuring his hamstring in the 40-yard-dash, it opened up an opportunity for Derrius Guice (LSU) to separate himself. He didn’t disappoint. Guice’s 4.49 40-yard-dash and complete performance in all aspects of the on-field drills, confirmed to me that he is worth being drafted in the first round) (3-2-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Day 2 News & Notes (Other notable running back bench press numbers: Sony Michel (22), Josh Adams (18), Mark Walton (18), Royce Freeman (17), Derrius Guice (15), John Kelly (15), Bo Scarbrough (14), Kerryon Johnson (11).) (3-1-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-day-2-news-notes
TWENTYMAN: Comparing the top six running back prospects (Derrius Guice - School: LSU (junior); Ht/Wt: 5-10, 224; Draft projection: Rounds 1-2; Total rushing yards: 1,251; Rushing yds per game: 104.3; Yds per attempt: 5.3; 20-plus yrd runs: 9 (19 in 2016); TDs: 11; Twentyman: Guice compared himself to Kareem Hunt and Alvin Kamara when speaking to the media at the Combine. He runs a little harder than both of those players. He knows how to finish a run, and he does have some versatility to his game as well. Quotable: “If you don’t draft me I’m going to give your defense hell.” Guice said.) (3-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Comparing-the-top-six-running-back-prospects/cb2a9a10-fa6b-47bc-8fb7-d649f73aef1e
2018 NFL combine: What we learned from RB and OL weigh-ins and measurements (RB Winners - Derrius Guice, LSU. The LSU star was dinged during the 2017 season. He's healthy now. In fact, he was healthy when he erupted for 276 yards in mid-October against Ole Miss and 127 yards against Texas A&M in November. At 224 pounds, the violent, power back weighed in nearly 10 pounds lighter than Saquon Barkley, which should help him in the 40-yard dash.) (2-28-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-what-we-learned-from-rb-and-ol-weigh-ins-and-measurements/
Running back measurements: Barkley impresses at Combine (LSU’s Derrius Guice was officially 5-10 1/2-inches and a stout 224 pounds, which fits his competitive, power style. At LSU, he ran with a contact-driven mentality and angry attitude and that won’t change in the NFL.) (2-28-18): http://nfl.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/28/running-back-measurements-barkley-impresses-at-combine/
Players for Detroit Lions to watch at NFL Combine (Derrius Guice: The consensus No. 1 running back in this draft is Penn State’s Saquon Barkley. But there’s plenty of depth – and talent – behind him at the position, and it probably starts with Guice, who led the SEC in rushing last season. He runs with power and violence, but scouts also rave about his vision and contact balance. The question is whether all that’s enough to convince Quinn to use a first-round pick on a running back when there’s value picks still on the board on Day 2.) (2-27-18): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/02/27/players-detroit-lions-watch-nfl-combine/110896160/
Lions should focus on running backs, defensive line at combine (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: He's not Saquon Barkley but Guice is a talented rusher who might be the No. 2 back in the draft. He was Mel Kiper Jr.'s first-round pick for the Lions in Kiper's second mock draft, and it makes sense why. Guice has three-down potential -- or could at least provide solid two-down work with Theo Riddick (or Ameer Abdullah) being the third-down and two-minute option. Guice gains yards in bunches, averaging 6.5 yards per carry and scoring 29 touchdowns in three seasons. He gained 3,074 yards, fifth-most in Tigers history. Not that the Lions need it with Jamal Agnew on the roster, but Guice has experience returning kicks, too.) (2-27-18): http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33296/lions-should-focus-on-running-backs-defensive-linemen-at-2018-combine
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine III (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: While working on my updated 2018 NFL Mock Draft, some team sources were reading last week's version and told me that I had Guice just a tad too low. I had Guice going in the top half of the second round, but they told me that Guice wouldn't get out of the top 40. In a strong running back class, Guice seems to have locked on to the third slot across the league. It is still possible, however, for Guice to leapfrog Georgia's Sony Michel with some teams if Guice works out well and Michel disappoints. Entering the combine, both players sound highly likely to be top-40 picks in the 2018 NFL Draft.) (2-27-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_25.php
Why Derrius Guice, Josh Adams, Sony Michel should get good looks from Lions at combine (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: He was Mel Kiper’s pick for the Lions last week and is a dynamic back. His 29 rushing touchdowns in three years (including playing 2015 behind Leonard Fournette) are impressive, as are his back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. He’s a potential every-down back with explosive potential. At 5-foot-11, 218 pounds and with elite talent, Detroit doesn’t have a player like him on the roster.) (2-26-18): http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33319/why-derrius-guice-josh-adams-sony-michel-should-get-good-looks-from-lions-at-combine
NFL combine preview: Running backs worth considering for the Lions (Derrius Guice, LSU: A powerful runner who consistently picks up yards after contact. And when he does hit the open field, he's got major speed. Sounds just like just what the doctor ordered for Detroit, eh? It's true that if he stays healthy, he's one of the best running back talents in the draft. Of course, it's also true that his 2017 season was marred by injury, which is why he could still be there for the Lions in the first place. Will be interesting to see how long Guice lasts before a team decides to roll the dice, because the talent is undeniable.) (2-21-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_combine_preview_running_ba.html
Detroit Lions 2018 NFL draft fits (1.0) (RB Derrius Guice, LSU: If defensive line is the Lions' top need in the draft, running back is 1-A. Guice topped 1,200 yards rushing and had double-digit touchdowns each of the past two seasons. But in a deep RB draft, do the Lions want to address the position this early?) (2-19-18): https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/02/19/detroit-lions-2018-nfl-draft-fits-10/110597050/
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Guice is a player I liked more in college than I did when watching tape in anticipation of the publication of these rankings. I just assumed I’d rank him as RB2 behind Barkley, which is where most others have him, but I found myself underwhelmed. He was better in 2016 than he was last season, and you have to wonder if he didn’t benefit a bit in 2016 from playing with Leonard Fournette (when Fournette was healthy), as defenses were often taxed when Guice entered off the bench. To be fair, Guice struggled through a nagging knee injury last season. He’s built like a fist and runs low. The power/quickness combination plays in conjunction with the slashing style. What I keep coming back to is this: 1.) Why didn’t he take a step forward in 2017? 2.) Can he be a star in the current NFL while lacking blazing speed and top-notch receiving skills? Seems like a player who’d have been drafted higher a decade ago.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Derrius Guice - Best trait: He’s a power runner with speed. He isn’t shy about putting his shoulder down and taking on defenders, but he also has the home-run speed when things open up for him. Concern: He dealt with some lingering injuries in 2017, but played through them. His 2016 season (7.6 yards per attempt & 15 TDs) was much better than 2017 (5.3 & 11), which means scouts will have to watch a lot of tape on him. Skinny: Guice is a no-nonsense kind of runner, who will create yards for himself after contact. He should do very well in short yardage and goal line situations right away. If he returns to his 2016 form, he could be a steal.)(2-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675
2018 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Da'Ron Payne dominant in College Football Playoff (11. Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: According to Pro Football Focus, Guice forced seven missed tackles against Notre Dame in the Citrus Bowl. Clockwork for him. On the season, Guice had four games with at least five forced missed tackles. One can reasonably argue that Guice is more impressive than Barkley between the tackles, and he's probably more powerful through tackles. He just lacks elite long speed.) (1-9-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-daron-payne-dominant-in-college-football-playoff/
NFL Draft 2018 could offer hope for Lions in form of these 10 running backs (Derrius Guice, LSU: Derrius Guice stepped in as a freshman in 2015 and averaged 8.5 yards a carry on more than 50 touches in the rugged Southeastern Conference. The average has dipped as he's become the kind of feature back who topped 1,200 yards each of the past two seasons, but a 6.5-yard career average is still quite a mark and showcases the speed he has to hit a hole and accelerate. That's his style at a listed 5 feet 11 inches and 218 pounds. He's a sharp runner in the hole, though he doesn't have the same repertoire established yet in the passing game. He's battled some injuries amid the volume, but he could be a first-rounder this spring and will be much more attainable for the Lions than a player like Barkley.) (1-8-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_10_running_back_prosp.html
Citrus Bowl: 10-win season on the line for Notre Dame, LSU (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: Guice averaged nearly eight yards per carry during his first two seasons in college. He has been banged up throughout the year and played behind a youthful offensive line, so that production dropped off a bit, but he’s still one of the most talented backs in the country. Guice enters the Citrus Bowl with 1,153 yards and 11 touchdowns on 216 carries — a 5.3-yard average. He’s closing in on 3,000 rushing yards for his career despite backing up Leonard Fournette in 2015 and 2016. This could be his final game in an LSU uniform, too.) (12-30-27): https://sports.yahoo.com/citrus-bowl-lsu-notre-dame-can-reach-10-wins-204011047.html
2018 NFL Draft prospect watch: Citrus Bowl (Like Notre Dame, LSU has its own stud running back with the luxury of being able to run behind a top-end offensive line. Derrius Guice didn’t play quite at the same level this year as he did in 2016, but he still forced 35 missed tackles on 2016 carries. For his career, 1,636 of his 2,983 rushing yards have come after initial contact.) (12-30-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospect-watch-citrus-bowl
Top 25 future NFL stars to watch in New Year's Day bowl games (17. Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: Game: Citrus Bowl vs. Notre Dame, Guice struggled with an injury early this season, but over the past five games of the year, he looked like the back that ran for nearly 1,400 yards in 2016. He ran all over Ole Miss for 276 yards in October, then put up three touchdowns two weeks later against Arkansas. The Irish defense must swarm him near the line of scrimmage to keep him bottled up. Guice's strong, compact build and quick feet make him difficult to stop one-on-one, especially when he builds a head of steam.) (12-29-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000899828/article/top-25-future-nfl-stars-to-watch-in-new-years-day-bowl-games
NFL Draft: Prospects to watch in each college football bowl game (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU (JR): Guice has elite body control as he maintains his balance and speed through contact and cutting. He has an impeccable ability of creating his own space and planting his foot in the ground and exploding upfield.) (12-26-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-college-football-bowl-games-grades-analysis/efidru6bmary13kqi5ju6f37m
2018 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Saquon Barkley, Derrius Guice, Bryce Love headline tremendous RB class (12. Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: Guice isn't Barkley, but it's close. He runs with insane suddenness and end-of-run power. His vision is outstanding too. I'm pumped for LSU's bowl game against Notre Dame on Jan. 1. Will be a good test for Guice and the Tigers offensive line.) (12-26-17): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-saquon-barkley-derrius-guice-bryce-love-headline-tremendous-rb-class/
Derrius Guice surprises 10-year-old LSU fan with the best Christmas gift (12-25-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/25/derrius-guice-lsu-christmas-gift-fan/
The Rundown on Rushers (Derrius Guice, LSU: Guice is a fun player to study on tape. He reminds me of a young Frank Gore. He has a nice mix of quickness, elusiveness and strength.) (12-15-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000893205/article/browns-could-be-juggernaut-5-bowls-that-will-shape-nfl-draft
Guice comments on knee injury and draft (12-5-17): http://www.wwltv.com/sports/ncaa/lsu/lsus-derrius-guices-nfl-draft-decision-will-happen-after-citrus-bowl/496989386
2018 NFL Draft watch: Top quarterbacks shine during rivalry week (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU — Guice had a huge game in a 45-21 win over Texas A&M. The 5-11, 212-pound junior ran for 127 yards and a touchdown on 28 carries and added an 18-yard reception. Guice now has 1,153 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns this season.) (11-26-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-top-quarterbacks-baker-mayfield-lamar-jackson-riley-ferguson/niqa8v9dwulg13qy412pxzm8g
You can't draft him yet, but LSU's Derrius Guice may be the best RB prospect in the country (11-25-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2016/11/25/you-cant-draft-him-yet-but-lsus-derrius-guice-may-be-the-best-rb-prospect-in-the-country/
Sources Tell Us: Buzz building again for LSU RB Derrius Guice (The scoop: LSU's Derrius Guice had become the forgotten man at running back in the first half of the season when so much attention was focused on the outstanding play of Penn State's Saquon Barkley. However, Barkley cooled off just as Guice started to heat up over the past few weeks. Scouts haven't cooled on Guice's NFL potential at all despite his quiet first half of the season, and one scout believes Guice is about to "get 'em talking again" with his next two games (at Tennessee, vs. Texas A&M). The skinny: I struggled this summer when deciding which running back to rank No. 1 at the position between Barkley and Guice. Both players have great size and are exceptionally talented, so I went back and forth until ultimately settling on Guice. There's no doubt the pendulum swung in the other direction with Barkley's impressive start, but Guice is doing a good job of reminding us about what he can do. It appears that Penn State head coach James Franklin is limiting the wear and tear on Barkley down the stretch (averaging 16 touches in the past two games), but Barkley's production has been very poor by the star RB's standards in the past 3 weeks (averaging 2.9 yards per carry). Guice, on the other hand, appears to be healthy again after dealing with a nagging left leg injury earlier in the season. He hung 276 rushing yards on Ole Miss, 147 on Arkansas and is expected to load up the stat sheet against both Tennessee and Texas A&M. The Barkley vs. Guice debate could be more interesting than some might expect if both decide to enter the draft after the season.(11-16-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000877729/article/sources-tell-us-buzz-building-anew-for-lsu-rb-derrius-guice
LSU stars Derrius Guice and Arden Key 'still first-rounders' despite junior season lulls (11-16-17): http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_81b82f88-caf5-11e7-8ebf-cb408fad1ab3.html
2018 NFL Draft watch: Marquee matchups help sort out top prospects (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU — Guice ran for 147 yards and three touchdowns on 21 carries as LSU rolled to a 33-10 win over Arkansas. The 5-11, 212-pound junior is on the cusp of eclipsing 1,000 yards for the second straight year and will likely follow former LSU running back Leonard Fournette to the NFL next spring. ) (11-12-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-georgia-auburn-wisconsin-alabama-sooners-baker-mayfield/4m6o4ag7agcu154a1o4xnphzs
Derrius Guice shreds Arkansas for 147 yards, 3 touchdowns (11-12-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/12/derrius-guice-lsu-football-arkansas-football/
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 8 (Stock Up - Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: Guice has been hobbled by a knee injury this season, but like Leonard Fournette a year ago, Guice used the game against Ole Miss to break out with massive performance. Guice has been growing healthier lately and was able to practice fully before playing the Rebels. The better health was evident as Guice dominated Ole Miss running for 276 yards 22 carries with a touchdown. Aside from a few long runs, everytime Guice touched the ball, it seemed like he was almost getting 10 yards out of the carry. He saw lanes open on counter runs and cut downhill to rip the Rebels' defense. He looked faster, more decisive, and ran with more confidence than he had all season. This tape definitely will help Guice's draft grade, and if he runs like this down the stretch, his stock will really rise.) (10-24-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_08.php
2018 NFL Draft watch: Top Heisman candidates give MVP performances (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU — If it wasn't for Barkley, Guice might be considered the top back in the 2018 draft class. The 5-11, 212-pound junior ripped through the Ole Miss defense with 276 rushing yards and a touchdown on 22 carries in a 40-24 win over the Rebels.) (10-22-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-saquon-barkley-lamar-jackson-mason-rudolph-baker-mayfield/7xwbbdayp7zy1n2apxky1h8n3
Week 8 Risers and Sliders (Risers - Derrius Guice/RB/LSU: It was almost unfair -- Ole Miss has one of the worst run defenses in the country and LSU took advantage, piling up 393 yards on the ground. Despite how poor the Rebels rushing defense may be, a stat line of 276 yards on 22 carries (12.5 yard average) will raise any player's profile among scouts. Guice does not have the same skill set as Leonard Fournette but is still a legitimate feature back for the next level.) (10-23-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-8-risers-sliders
"Finally healthy" Derrius Guice, sidekick Darrel Williams total 493 yards in Ole Miss win (The Tigers amassed 593 yards of offense in defeating the Rebels, 40-24, Saturday night at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium behind 276 yards on 22 carries by tailback Derrius Guice and another 103 yards on 22 carries by tailback Darrel Williams, who also caught four passes for 105 yards. Williams, a senior from John Ehret High in the New Orleans area, became the first LSU player in history to have 100 yards or more rushing and receiving. Together, Guice and Williams totaled 493 yards - 285 rushing and receiving by Guice and 208 rushing and receiving by Williams. They were reminiscent of the Dalton Hilliard/Garry James tailback duo dubbed, the "Dalton & James Gang" from 1982-85 at LSU. Guice had 268 yards on 18 carries through three quarters and could have easily broken his own school rushing record of 285 yards on 37 carries set in the win at Texas A&M last season, but Williams finished out the game at tailback. "Ain't no old Derrius," Guice proclaimed after the game to questions about his return to his 2016 form after an ankle injury has slowed him this season. He did admit, though, that he was not at 100 percent. That was hard to tell. The junior from Catholic High in Baton Rouge gashed the Rebels' defense with runs of 59, 48, 33 and 26 yards and a 7-yard touchdown run. He now has three of the top four rushing games in LSU history — the 285 vs. Texas A&M for No. 1, the 276 on this night for No. 3 and 252 on 21 carries in the win over Arkansas last season for No. 4. Leonard Fournette has the No. 2 rushing game in school history with 284 against Ole Miss in 2016.) (10-21-17): https://www.theadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/lsu/2017/10/21/herbstreit-picks-ole-miss-but-hey-he-had-miles-going-michigan-weathersby-start/787154001/
Derrius Guice makes SEC history with big night vs. Ole Miss (10-21-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/21/derrius-guice-makes-sec-history-with-big-night-vs-ole-miss/
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 6 (Stock Down - Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: Guice missed action with a leg injury lately, but he returned to the field versus the Gators. Guice was held in check by Florida, totaling 50 yards on 17 carries, and it is clear that he isn't the same runner that he was last year. Guice doesn't have the same speed and burst to hit the hole. With the lack of speed, he also isn't as violent and physical of a runner. With a lot of running backs having breakout seasons, Guice's draft stock could dive if he is unable to start producing some big games. Entering the season, there was the possibility of Guice being a late first-round pick, but right now, he looks like he might be fortunate to go in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.) (10-10-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_06.php
Derrius Guice fighting to get past nagging injury (10-10-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/10/derrius-guice-lsu-nagging-injury/
LSU RB Derrius Guice (knee) out vs. Troy (9-26-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/26/lsu-rb-derrius-guice-knee-out-vs-troy/
LSU RB Derrius Guice (knee) will start vs. Syracuse (9-22-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/22/lsu-rb-derrius-guice-knee-will-start-vs-syracuse/
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Weekend Overview, Week 1 (LSU’s Derrius Guice is competing with Barkley for top prospect honors, but the numbers don’t look as gaudy as he ran for 122 yards on 27 carries. He forced four missed tackles and notched a long run of 13 yards.) (9-4-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-watch-weekend-overview-week-1
2018 NFL Draft watch: Running backs shine, top QBs struggle in season openers (video inside) (Derrius Guice, RB, LSU: The LSU running game was dominant in a 27-0 win over BYU and Guice did most of the damage. The 5-11, 212-pound junior ran for 122 yards and two touchdowns on 27 carries thanks to a veteran offensive line of senior KJ Malone and juniors Will Clapp, Toby Weathersby and Garrett Brumfield.) (9-3-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-saquon-barkley-josh-allen-maryland-michigan-florida-alabama-florida-state/16nxysfp1779t107heam617fqt
2018 NFL draft: SEC scouting preview (Top Offensive Prospect - RB Derrius Guice: Leonard Fournette was long billed as a revolutionary back due to his rare combination of size, power and explosiveness, but Guice may actually be the better NFL prospect. Another balanced runner with equal doses of speed and strength, Guice is a three-down threat who can take it to the house on every touch. Unlike Fournette, Guice hasn’t been forced to shoulder a heavy workload up to this point, leaving his legs more fresh once he makes the jump to the NFL. Don’t be surprised if he’s the first back off the board come next April.) (8-23-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/08/23/2018-nfl-draft-sec-scouting-preview/
Seven believable things amid offseason hype for NFL prospects (2. Saquon Barkley and Derrius Guice are absolutely as good as advertised. Barkley (Penn State) and Guice (LSU) were entertaining runners as freshmen, but both players took it to that "uh-oh" level as sophomores with eye-opening yardage and touchdown numbers. People will start nit-picking both players this year as the hype surrounding them picked up tremendous steam after their 2016 seasons. After watching the tape on both runners, I'm confident that Guice and Barkley are as talented as any runner taken in the 2017 draft.) (8-23-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000818460/article/seven-believable-things-amid-offseason-hype-for-nfl-prospects
CFBTop25: No. 5, Derrius Guice, RB, LSU (8-21-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000832856/article/cfbtop25-no-5-derrius-guice-rb-lsu
Scouting the SEC: LSU (Derrius Guice is the next top running back from the LSU program and a prospect with a lot of next-level potential. A powerful grinder between the tackles, Guice is rarely brought down by the first defender and battles for extra yardage. He’s explosive, has a burst through the hole and falls forward when tackled. Guice is also a one-speed back who cannot create yardage. The one-dimensionality of his game will hurt his draft stock.)(8-11-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-sec-lsu
2018 NFL Draft Watch: FBS Running Back Overview (Let the debate begin as Penn State’s Saquon Barkley and LSU’s Derrius Guice will both likely vie to be the top running back off the board next spring. Both players are big-play threats as Barkley led the nation with an elusive rating of 126.7 in 2015 while Guice stepped in last season and averaged 7.6 yards/carry with 59.5 percent of his yards coming on explosive (15-plus-yard) runs, third-best in the nation.) (8-10-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-watch-fbs-running-back-overview
Top 5 FBS players, per position, entering the 2017 season: Offense (Derrius Guice, LSU: The Good: 12.9 percent of carries went for 15-plus yards, best among draft-eligible running backs and 32.8 percent of carries went for either a first down or a touchdown, sixth best in the class. Room to Improve: Has only 19 targets in his two years, so there’s more to see from him in the pass game. Pass blocking efficiency of 94.3 ranked 65th in the draft class.) (8-7-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-top-5-fbs-players-per-position-entering-the-2017-season-offense
2018 Prospect Preview: LSU RB Derrius Guice can hit the long ball (7-26-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-lsu-rb-derrius-guice-can-hit-the-long-ball
Derrius Guice, Saquon Barkley lead top 10 RBs to watch in 2017 (1. Derrius Guice, LSU: It's basically a coin flip between Guice and Saquon Barkley, as both are worthy of this spot. However, for the second consecutive year, an LSU RB occupies the top spot on this list (Leonard Fournette in 2016). Guice possesses a winning combination of speed, power and balance. His highlight reel is filled with runs that should have ended early but kept going due to his elite body control through contact. He powers through initial contact and makes life miserable for defenders. Guice has averaged almost 8 yards per touch over his first two seasons and had 24 carries of 15-plus yards in 2016. He has occasional runs where he shows some indecision when the running lane is slow to open, but there aren't too many areas of improvement to go over right now.) (7-10-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000818768/article/derrius-guice-saquon-barkley-lead-top-10-rbs-to-watch-in-2017
RB D'Ernest Johnson:
Scouting Reports:
USF Profile: http://gousfbulls.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6894
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/dernest-johnson?id=2559917
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130991&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Articles:
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine I (D'Ernest Johnson, RB, South Florida: Johnson had an impressive week of practice at the East-West Shrine, and team sources told me they liked what they saw out of him from a speed and athleticism standpoint there. Johnson is a slashing back with receiving ability. In 2017, Johnson averaged 4.1 yards per carry for 796 yards with seven touchdowns. The senior also made 11 catches for a total of 153 yards and two scores. He averaged 4.9 yards per carry for 543 yards with eight touchdowns as a junior. Johnson also totaled 28 receptions that season and 26 in 2015. After his strong week in St. Petersburg, Johnson may have turned himself into a third-day pick and, at least, likely ensured that he will be signed as a priority free agent.) (2-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_23.php
Johnson spoke with the Lions at the Shrine game (1-20-18): https://www.thedailystampede.com/2018/1/20/16913886/usf-football-rb-dernest-johnson-cb-deatrick-nichols-impress-at-93rd-annual-east-west-shrine-game
South Florida RB D'Ernest Johnson ran for 31 yards on six carries for the East in a 14-10 loss to the West in the East-West Shrine Game on Saturday. Johnson also caught a pass for 12 yards. Outside of the catch and a 15-yard run, Johnson struggled to find much room to run, which was the case for most of the running backs on the day. The 5-foot-10, 204-pound tailback currently projects as a third-down back at the next level, and has received mostly late-round or UDFA grades from draft pundits.) (1-20-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=CFB&id=136729&line=78759&spln=1
Shrine Game journal: USF players’ thoughts are with grieving QB Quinton Flowers (RB D’Ernest Johnson played well, rushing for 31 yards and catching a 12-yard pass to go with a 27-yard kickoff return. He said his thoughts were with Flowers as well.) (1-20-17): http://www.tampabay.com/sports/football/bucs/Shrine-Game-journal-USF-players-thoughts-are-with-grieving-QB-Quinton-Flowers_164700236
2018 East-West Shrine Game: Tuesday's East Team Practice Report(Another player who has improved his standing in eyes of team sources is USF running back D'Ernest Johnson. He showed good quickness and cutting ability on Tuesday. He had a good run in the team scrimmage, breaking to the outside with a fast cut and then accelerating downfield. Johnson (5-9, 208) could be a backup and change-of-pace candidate.) (1-16-18): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2018practice3.php
D’Ernest Johnson hopes to showcase versatility at East-West Shrine Game (1-16-18): http://www.tbo.com/blogs/bulls/2018/01/16/dernest-johnson-hopes-to-showcase-versatility-at-east-west-shrine-game/
2018 NFL draft prospects to watch during college bowls, Week 2 (USF RBs D’Ernest Johnson, Darius Tice: Johnson and Tice proved a formidable 1-2 punch (1-2-3 if you count QB Quinton Flowers) for the Bulls this season as they totaled 495 and 485 yards after contact on the ground this season, respectively. Johnson led the team with 179 carries and his 36 missed tackles forced while Tice was just on his heels with 161 carries and 28 missed tackles forced on the ground. Pass protection is an oft-under appreciated skill to have as a running back is something the both possess, while Tice may have an edge. The 5-foot-10, 210-pound back saw 90 pass-blocking snaps this year, and allowed just a single pressure.) (12-22-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-during-college-bowls-week-2
Bulls emerge from bye week nearly at full strength (Running backs Darius Tice and D’Ernest Johnson, both of whom wore protective boots last week, were seen running post-practice sprints Tuesday. Safety Tajee Fullwood, who missed the East Carolina game with an unspecified ailment, also practiced.) (10-10-17): http://www.theledger.com/sports/20171010/bulls-emerge-from-bye-week-nearly-at-full-strength
No. 17 South Florida remains perfect, routs East Carolina 61-31 (D'Ernest Johnson rushed for 111 yards and two touchdowns) (9-30-17): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2017/09/30/flowers-no-18-usf-remain-perfect-rout-ecu-61-31/106166378/
USF ground game on firm footing thanks to D'Ernest Johnson, Darius Tice (9-29-17): http://sptimes.com/sports/college/usf-ground-game-on-firm-footing-thanks-to-dernest-johnson-darius-tice/2339217
No. 21 USF pulls away from Illinois for first win over Big Ten team (Flowers completed 15 of 25 passes, including TD throws of 39 yards to Deangelo Antoine, 17 yards to Marquez Valdes-Scantling, 17 yards to D’Ernest Johnson and 13 yards to Tyre McCants. Flowers also scored on a 6-yard run on the last play of the first half and finished with a team-best 106 of USF’s 376 yards rushing. Johnson and Darius Tice joined Flowers in topping 100 yards rushing, with USF amassing 680 yards total offense to Illinois’ 354.) (9-15-17): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2017/09/15/no-22-usf-starts-slowly-before-rolling-over-illinois-47-23/105666292/
USF's D'Ernest Johnson showcases playmaking ability (9-12-17): https://www.news-press.com/story/sports/college/football/2016/09/12/usfs-dernest-johnson-showcases-playmaking-ability/90261606/
Immokalee's Johnson leads Bulls stampede, helps USF football get off to good start (8-31-17): https://www.news-press.com/story/sports/college/football/2017/08/31/immokalees-johnson-leads-bulls-stampede-helps-usf-football-get-off-good-start/615771001/
D'Ernest Johnson's patience pays as he becomes USF's starting RB (8-27-17): http://www.tampabay.com/sports/college/dernest-johnsons-patience-pays-as-he-becomes-usfs-starting-rb/2335292
D'Ernest Johnson 50 yd TD run (8-26-17): https://www.cbssports.com/video/player/team:NCAAB:SJST/1033385027509/0/watchusfs-dernest-johnson-50-yard-td-run
Scouting the AAC: South Florida (Running back D'Ernest Johnson is a solid change-of-pace back with the ability to create yardage. He is expected to take over the starting duties for the departed Marlon Mack, who was selected in the fourth round last April by the Indianapolis Colts. Johnson needs to step up his production and prove he’s a capable receiver out of the backfield if he’s to move into the final rounds of the draft.) (7-5-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-aac-south-florida
RB Sony Michel:
Scouting Reports:
Georgia Profile: http://georgiadogs.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=1082
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/sony-michel?id=2559842
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130729&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/03/sony-michel-nfl-draft-profile/
Articles:
My pick for the Lions, and some other combine thoughts (If the Lions go another direction in the first round -- and I think they will -- they are still going to have several options to add a No. 1-type back. Georgia's Sony Michel and Nick Chubb have to be in that conversation in the second round.) (3-6-18): http://www.mlive.com/expo/erry-2018/03/172f0fa645/my_pick_for_the_lions_and_some.html
Combine: From superstars to sleepers, RBs excel (If there was any question as to why Nick Chubb started over Sony Michel for most of his career at Georgia it may have been answered Friday with the bigger back Chubb (5-11, 228) proving to be even faster and more explosive than his smaller, albeit quicker former teammate. Michel, who excelled during Georgia’s playoff run, was clocked at a very respectable 4.54 seconds after measuring 5-foot-11, 220 pounds and also projects as a second-round pick.) (3-2-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/02/combine-from-superstars-to-sleepers-rbs-excel/
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Mixed Results - Sony Michel (Georgia) ran an expected 4.54 40-yard-dash, but I was disappointed he didn’t attempt any jumps.) (3-2-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Recap of OL and RB (Sony Michel ran a somewhat surprising 4.54 in the dash compared to the time of his teammate, the presumed slower back, Nick Chubb who finished with a time of 4.52.) (3-2-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-recap-of-ol-and-rb
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Day 2 News and Notes (Other notable running back bench press numbers: Sony Michel (22), Josh Adams (18), Mark Walton (18), Royce Freeman (17), Derrius Guice (15), John Kelly (15), Bo Scarbrough (14), Kerryon Johnson (11).) (3-1-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-day-2-news-notes
TWENTYMAN: Comparing the top six running back prospects (Sony Michel - School: Georgia (senior); Ht/Wt: 5-10, 214; Draft projection: Round 2; Total rushing yards: 1,227; Rushing Yds per game: 87.6; Yds per attempt: 7.9; 20-plus yrd runs: 14; TDs: 16; Twentyman: Michel said the two players he looked up to the most in the NFL and thought his game compared to were Reggie Bush and LeSean McCoy. Those aren’t bad comparisons from a style-of-play standpoint. Speed and quickness are a big part of his game. Quotable: “I have vision to hit the hole well,” Michel said. “Good speed to run the football effectively. (The NFL) will be getting a great player, an explosive player. Somebody that makes plays. Somebody that enjoys doing it.) (3-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Comparing-the-top-six-running-back-prospects/cb2a9a10-fa6b-47bc-8fb7-d649f73aef1e
2018 NFL combine: What we learned from RB and OL weigh-ins and measurements (RB Winners - Sony Michel, Georgia. Despite his reputation as a change-of-pace speed back, Michel is impressive at 214 pounds. As he showed often at Georgia, he's more than capable of carrying the load between the tackles, and teams will like that weight for him.) (2-28-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-what-we-learned-from-rb-and-ol-weigh-ins-and-measurements/
Running back measurements: Barkley impresses at Combine (The Georgia senior running backs, Sony Michel and Nick Chubb, weren’t at the Senior Bowl, so teams were eager to get updated measurements from them. Michel is 5-10 5/8-inches and 214 pounds. Chubb is 5-10 7/8-inches and 227 pounds. Both came in as expected.) (2-28-18): http://nfl.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/28/running-back-measurements-barkley-impresses-at-combine/
Players for Detroit Lions to watch at NFL Combine (Sony Michel: A deep class of running backs offers plenty of choices if the Lions are seriously looking for help in the draft. And there’s a growing sense that Michel could be this year’s version of Alvin Kamara, even if he comes off the board much earlier. There are questions about his receiving chops – that bears watching during combine and pro-day workouts – but Michel helped his stock with two huge playoff performances to cap his career at Georgia.) (2-27-18): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/02/27/players-detroit-lions-watch-nfl-combine/110896160/
Why Derrius Guice, Josh Adams, Sony Michel should get good looks from Lions at combine (Sony Michel, RB, Georgia: His carries weren’t huge because he shared the backfield with Chubb, but he still had 1,227 yards (7.9 yards per carry) last season and 16 touchdowns. He’s a smart running back who might not have the flash of some of the guys above, but if he tests well this week he could move up draft boards really quickly. He’s the type of player who could be a three-down back and reshape Detroit’s backfield by himself.) (2-26-18): http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33319/why-derrius-guice-josh-adams-sony-michel-should-get-good-looks-from-lions-at-combine
NFL combine preview: Running backs worth considering for the Lions (Sony Michel, Georgia: He started just two games in Georgia's stacked backfield last season, and he still managed to run for 1,227 yards. Of course, averaging 7.9 yards per carry has a way of doing that. He's explosive, which helps, but he rarely hesitates in the backfield either. He finds the first opening and then attacks it with enthusiasm unknown to, well, you know how that goes. And the Lions, whose runs have failed to gain yardage more often than any other team in the league the last two years, sure could use that kind of decisiveness in the backfield. Looks ahead of the curve in pass protection, too, which bodes well for his chances of making an instant impact. Pass pro is often what holds back rookie runners.) (2-21-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_combine_preview_running_ba.html
Detroit Lions 2018 NFL draft fits (1.0) (Round 2: RB Sony Michel, Georgia: Day 2 seems like a better bet for the Lions to address the RB position, and Michel is the type of powerful, productive back who would immediately upgrade the Lions' backfield.) (2-19-18): https://www.freep.com/picture-gallery/sports/nfl/lions/2018/02/19/detroit-lions-2018-nfl-draft-fits-10/110597050/
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Jones and Michel are both players who fit where the NFL is going as versatile, explosive playmakers who stress defenses as runners and receivers. Jones has long been compared to Jamaal Charles, and that’s spot on. I saw a lot of Kareem Hunt in Michel this fall, and that has become his go-to comparison. Michel will be a better pro than he was college. He really came on at the end of his career, in large part because he added muscle without losing speed or quickness. He no longer can be taken down with arm tackles. Michel fumbles a bit more than you’d like. It’s an area of his game he’ll have to work on. Maybe he can start walking around everywhere with a football under his arm, like the guy in The Program.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Sony Michel - Best trait: In the simplest terms, Michel is a playmaker. He averaged an incredible 7.9 yards per attempt this season, rushing for 1,227 yards and 16 touchdowns, despite starting just two games – he played alongside Nick Chubb – and carrying the ball just 156 times. Six of his 16 touchdown runs were longer than 15 yards. Concern: He's a one-cut runner, and won’t create a lot of space for himself with cutbacks or open-field moves. Skinny: Michel is the kind of runner who sees a hole, hits it, and gets what he can get. He’s got good size and speed, and likes to run north and south. He showed in the college playoffs that he can also be an effective receiver out of the backfield if given the opportunity.) (2-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine I (Sony Michel, RB, Georgia: As we wrote in the Hot Press during the Senior Bowl, some teams see Michel going in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Michel was one of the prospects who really helped himself late in the 2017 season. Michel showed his big-play ability with speed to break off some long runs that led to some huge performances to help the Bulldogs make it to the National Championship. In speaking to a general manager who needs a new starting running back, they felt that Michel wouldn't make it to their second-round pick. They believe that Michel could go late in Round 1 after his tremendous finish to the season. If he does slip to the second round, they thought that Michel wouldn't make it to their pick, although they are hoping he does because he would be a great fit in their offense. Michel has a lot of positive momentum and will probably hear his name called as a top-40 pick of the 2018 NFL Draft.) (2-13-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_23.php
2018 Senior Bowl Rumor Mill (A few days ago in the Hot Press, we discussed how one general manager thought Georgia running back Sony Michel could go late in the first round. Sources from a couple of other teams also had a very high view of Michel. Those teams have Michel as the second-rated running back in the draft behind only Barkley. Michel has seen his draft stock skyrocket over his senior year. Being the second running back selected and going on Thursday night of the draft seems entirely possible.) (1-26-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018rumors5.php
Georgia RB Sony Michel went from Alvin Kamara-like sleeper to NFL draft first-rounder (1-24-18): https://sports.yahoo.com/georgia-rb-sony-michel-went-alvin-kamara-like-sleeper-nfl-draft-first-rounder-041927916.html
2018 Senior Bowl: Monday Rumor Mill (Georgia running back Sony Michel was one of the prospects who really helped himself late in the 2017 season. Michel showed his big-play ability with speed to break off some long runs that led to some huge performances to help the Bulldogs make it to the National Championship. In speaking to a general manager who needs a new starting running back, he felt that Michel wouldn't make it to their second-round pick. He felt that Michel could go late in the first round after his tremendous finish to the season. If he does slip to the second round, they thought that Michel wouldn't make it to their pick although he is hoping he does because he would be a great fit in their offense. Michel has a lot of positive momentum, and he probably will hear his name called in the top 45 picks of the draft.) (1-21-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018rumors.php
2018 NFL Draft: Sam Darnold a playmaker in mold of Tony Romo (Georgia RB Sony Michel - Player comp: Kareem Hunt - I was a big fan of Michel during the fall and he took his game to another level in the postseason. His balance, power and pass-catching skills remind me a lot of Hunt when he was coming out of Toledo last year. Hunt was a bargain for the Chiefs in Round 3, and due to the running back depth in this class, Michel could end up being an incredible value pick as well.) (1-12-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000905575/article/2018-nfl-draft-sam-darnold-a-playmaker-in-mold-of-tony-romo
Ask 5: Which draft prospect helped himself most in postseason? (Executive 1: Georgia RB Sony Michel - "Michel is a three-down back. I knew more about the other running backs coming into the bowl season, but I thought he stood out the most during the playoff. I was very impressed." Executive 3: Michel - "I think it might be Sony Michel. He was highly thought of before but he separated himself from Chubb and showed how talented he really is in those two bowl games." Executive 5: Michel - "I thought Michel was dominate on the big stage. There's nothing he can't do as a runner. He plays the game with passion and maybe the outcome of the championship would've been different if they didn't stop using him in the fourth quarter.") (1-11-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000904977/article/ask-5-which-draft-prospect-helped-himself-most-in-postseason
SI's 2017-18 All-Bowl Team (RB Sony Michel - Rose Bowl: Michel sliced through Oklahoma’s defense with such ease that it was a surprise Georgia ever needed to throw the ball. Michel ran for 181 yards and three touchdowns on only 11 carries, the last of which was a 27-yard scamper for the game-winning score in double overtime. (Senior backfield partner Nick Chubb tossed in a mere 145 yards on 14 carries against the Sooners.) (1-10-18): https://www.si.com/college-football/2018/01/10/all-bowl-team-sony-michel-rashaad-penny-michael-dickson
2018 NFL draft prospect National Championship recap (RB Sony Michel, Overall Grade 81.4: Michel found much more success against Alabama than fellow running back Nick Chubb, gaining a game-high 98 yards on 14 carries. He accumulated 72 of those yards after first contact with a defender and forced another four missed tackles. He couldn’t quite get the ball moving in the passing game like he did in the Rose Bowl, but that can be attributed elsewhere in this contest, and Michel finished his fourth year in Athens with his highest career grade and a career-high 3.8 yards after contact per attempt this year.) (1-9-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-prospect-national-championship-recap
What we learned from scouting National Championship Game (4. I wished Georgia could have kept RB Sony Michel going because he had the hot hand early. He showed off his agility with a long run in the first half against Alabama. I like Michel a little bit better than Bulldogs RB Nick Chubb as a prospect. Michel can get to the edge a little bit better, and tonight reinforced that against a fast defense. Michel was able to get outside. Chubb's more of a banger inside.) (1-9-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000904478/article/what-we-learned-from-scouting-national-championship-game
Three reasons Georgia lost the CFB Playoff championship game (Michel was great in the first half, including a 26-yard run to convert on a third-and-20. He finished with 98 rushing yards on 14 carries, but had just six touches in the second half. The Alabama defense was keyed on Chubb, who led Georgia with 1,320 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns this season. He had just 25 yards on 18 carries on Monday. Yet Chaney kept feeding Chubb in the second half and he had just 5 yards on eight carries.) (1-9-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/ncaa-football/news/georgia-alabama-cfbplayoff-national-championship-three-reasons-bulldogs/1sr7s8pbd4xde119yasvm2nv44
NFL Draft 2018 could offer hope for Lions in form of these 10 running backs (Sony Michel, Georgia: All Georgia does any more is churn out great running backs, and it has two that could go in the first few rounds this spring. At a listed 5 feet 11 inches and 222 pounds, Michel was more a slasher back for the Bulldogs, as he got to 1,129 yards and 16 touchdowns on 8 yards a carry this season. He's handled a feature role, though, such as when Chubb went down in 2015, and he ripped off an 1,100-yard season. And his physicality continues to grow as he's become a really solid inside runner who can also hold up well in pass protection. He's getting more Day 2 or 3 buzz in the early goings, but he has the makings of a player flying under the radar given Chubb's persona and the depth of this class overall.) (1-8-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_10_running_back_prosp.html
Alabama vs. Georgia: Which prospects may interest Lions in NFL draft? (RB Sony Michel (No. 1): General manager Bob Quinn said the Lions "absolutely" will add a running back to their roster this offseason, and the Bulldogs have two good ones in what's shaking out to be another deep running back draft. Michel torched Oklahoma for 181 rushing yards on 11 carries and three touchdowns in the Rose Bowl semifinal, along with four catches for 41 yards and another score. At 5 feet 11, 215 pounds, he is a one-cut, big-play back.) (1-8-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/08/national-championship-game-detroit-lions-nfl-draft/1012497001/
Top 17 future NFL stars to watch in national championship game (7. Sony Michel, RB, Georgia - I'll stand by my statement from last week: Michel is the most explosive back in the 2018 class. He ran over Oklahoma for 181 yards and three scores, including the game-winner, and also caught four passes for 41 yards and a touchdown. Michel had some big holes to run through, sure, but his speed and agility shined. A rare fumble nearly cost his team the win, but he showed up in pass protection and as an offensive weapon for the rest of the game. He could be viewed as the Alvin Kamara-type dual threat of this class, but he won't last until the third round like Kamara did.) (1-4-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000902788/article/top-17-future-nfl-stars-to-watch-in-national-championship-game
Ask 5: Which RB in national title game will have best NFL career? (Executive 4: Georgia RB Sony Michel - "Best vision, run skills and third-down value." Executive 5: Michel - "I'll go with Michel. He has quick-strike ability and three-down ability.") (1-3-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000902315/article/ask-5-which-rb-in-national-title-game-will-have-best-nfl-career
Best pro fits for 2018 NFL draft prospects in the College Football Playoff final (Sony Michel, RB, Georgia - Best fits: Oakland Raiders, Detroit Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers - Chubb’s partner in crime is Michel, who brings a dynamic presence to the backfield as both a runner and as a receiver. He’s averaging 8.1 yards per carry this season and 6.2 for his career. He hits the hole with velocity and creates big plays when given a slight crease. His pass-game usage has gone down this year, but he’s forced 31 missed tackles on 63 career receptions and can do damage in space, perhaps reminding likely new Raiders coach Jon Gruden of his days in which RB Charlie Garner was catching passes out of the backfield. The Lions are another potential landing spot as they continue to look for run/pass threats, while the Steelers could use added backfield depth, particularly a back with Michel’s receiving ability.) (1-3-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-best-pro-fits-for-2018-nfl-draft-prospects-in-the-college-football-playoff-final
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Georgia's Sony Michel, Nick Chubb among New Year's Day standouts (If Georgia is to win the national title, it will need another performance like it saw from running backs Chubb and Sony Michel. The duo set a new record for most combined rush yards in a single game with 326 and combined for five touchdowns. Chubb is projected to be a higher draft pick and Michel didn't help his cause with a fumble which was returned for a Oklahoma touchdown. April's draft will be crowded with running backs but Chubb should lead the way with a Day-2 selection.) (1-2-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospects-georgia-oklahoma-clemson-alabama-michigan/fwcmwnj971cr1q7a1z9svole7
2018 NFL draft: Top prospects to watch in the National Championship (RB Sony Michel: The hero of the Bulldogs’ double-overtime thriller in the Rose Bowl, Michel’s incredible performance showed what he’ll be capable of at the next level. An explosive runner who can score every time he touches the ball, Michel is a three-down playmaker who can carry a full load of touches. Splitting carries with Chubb throughout his career at Georgia should only add to his value as a prospect, as he’ll be taking less wear and tear on his body to the next level. Both Bulldog running backs should hear their names called sometime on Day 2, instantly improving any NFL ground attack.) (1-2-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/02/2018-nfl-draft-georgia-alabama-top-prospects-national-championship/4/
Top prospects shine, Georgia shocks Oklahoma in double-OT Rose Bowl (Chubb and Michel combined for 326 yards and five touchdowns on just 25 carries, averaging over 10 yards per carry between them.) (1-1-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/01/rose-bowl-georgia-oklahoma-baker-mayfield-roquan-smith-nick-chubb-sony-michel/
Top 10 NFL Draft prospects in College Football Playoff (Nick Chubb and Sony Michel - The Georgia backfield duo has been both healthy and highly productive this season, things with which both Chubb and Michel have struggled over their college careers. Chubb offers great physicality, patience and power as an interior runner who works best after contact and finishes inside runs with slow-building speed. Michel, on the other hand, boasts lightening-fast acceleration and quickness, planting and exploding upfield to finish big plays with narrow running lanes. While smaller and more reliant on speed, Michel offers enough power and physicality to work as a more complete running back in the NFL level, more than he does now at Georgia.) (1-1-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/list/nfl-draft-prospects-college-football-playoff-clemson-oklahoma-georgia-alabama/1vy9nwy052uw61fchjhw9156mm/slide/1
Scouting the Rose Bowl: Georgia vs. Oklahoma (There is a hot debate in the scouting community as to who’s the better running back prospect from Georgia -- Nick Chubb or Sony Michel. On our board Chubb grades higher, as he’s slightly bigger and slightly faster. Several scouts like Michel’s quickness and burst and grade him higher. Both are quality next-level prospects, but the workout comparisons between the two will be interesting to watch in the lead up to the draft.) (1-1-18): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-rose-bowl-georgia-vs-oklahoma
2018 NFL Draft prospect watch: CFP Semifinal Rose Bowl (Quarterback Jake Fromm has had a strong freshman season for the Bulldogs, but the running back duo of Nick Chubb and Sony Michel is the lifeblood of the Georgia offense. Chubb has forced 52 missed tackles on the ground this season, helping him rank fifth in elusiveness among draft-eligible backs. Michel is not far behind in the category at eighth, as he has forced 32 missed tackles on just 132 rushes. Michel has also been excellent in pass protection throughout his career, giving up just one sack and no quarterback hits on 150 total pass-blocking snaps.) (12-31-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospect-watch-cfp-semifinal-rose-bowl
Top 25 future NFL stars to watch in New Year's Day bowl games (18. Sony Michel, RB, Georgia - Game: Rose Bowl vs. Oklahoma - Michel is the most explosive back in the 2018 class. He can go from 0 to 60 (OK, 20) in a heartbeat. He will bring a LeSean McCoy-like game to an NFL offense, though with a bit more power through contact. Oklahoma's defense is not exceptionally stout, so Michel should be able to run for big yards and take advantage of space as a receiver out of the backfield. It should be a great springboard into the draft process.) (12-29-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000899828/article/top-25-future-nfl-stars-to-watch-in-new-years-day-bowl-games
The Rundown on Rushers (Sony Michel, Georgia: I love the way Michel drops his shoulder and finishes runs. He's also very loose and fluid for a bigger back.) (12-15-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000893205/article/browns-could-be-juggernaut-5-bowls-that-will-shape-nfl-draft
Tuesday Draft Notes -- 13.0 (I was surprised to hear several area scouts grade Georgia running back Sony Michel ahead of his teammate Nick Chubb. They believe Michel’s game projects better to the next level compared to Chubb’s and that both will end up in the draft’s second round. At this point it’s not an opinion I share, as I think highly of Chubb and believe he will be a first-round selection.) (12-6-17): http://draftanalyst.com/tuesday-draft-notes-130
Georgia's top prospects deliver, Bulldogs get revenge on Auburn for SEC title (Both expected to be among the top running backs chosen in the 2018 draft, Chubb and Michel combined for 122 yards on 20 carries, averaging over six yards per attempt between them) (12-2-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/02/georgia-auburn-sec-championship-game-roquan-smith-nick-chubb-sony-michel/
Sources Tell Us: Sony Michel will be better in NFL than in CFB (The scoop: "I'm Team Sony all the way. He will have a better pro career than college career because he has a pro game to him. I bet he goes second (round)." -- AFC area scout on Georgia RB Sony Michel. The skinny: I'm on Team Sony, too. The senior RB has been outstanding this season, showing off decisiveness, physicality and an explosive burst. Michel is also willing and ready to mix it up in pass protection. His physical play demeanor as an interior runner is exactly what NFL teams want. Before the season, I had a fourth-to-fifth-round grade on Michel, but his 2017 tape, leadership and consistency have won me over and I'm expecting him do be a Day 2 pick (Rounds 2-3) in 2018.) (11-30-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000885466/article/sources-tell-us-sony-michel-will-be-better-in-nfl-than-in-cfb
2018 NFL Draft watch: Top quarterbacks shine during rivalry week (Sony Michel, RB, Georgia — While senior running back Nick Chubb ran for 53 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, Michel did most of the damage for the Bulldogs in their 38-7 win over Georgia Tech. Michel, a 5-11, 215-pound senior, had 85 rushing yards on 13 carries and showed some toughness and elusiveness on his 13th rushing touchdown of the year.) (11-26-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-top-quarterbacks-baker-mayfield-lamar-jackson-riley-ferguson/niqa8v9dwulg13qy412pxzm8g
Nick Chubb, Sony Michel shut down as Auburn destroys Georgia (The Bulldogs boast one of the best running back tandems in the nation, but both Nick Chubb and Sony Michel were bottled up by the Tigers, rushing for a combined 48 yards on 20 carries.) (11-11-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/11/georgia-auburn-nick-chubb-sony-michel/
10 prospects that could make Pro Bowl within first 3 seasons (11-9-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000874359/article/10-prospects-that-could-make-pro-bowl-within-first-3-seasons
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 9 (Sony Michel, RB, Georgia: Michel showed explosive speed with the ability to rip off long touchdowns as he ran all over Florida on Saturday. In the first quarter, Michel took a run up the middle and exploded down the field for a 74-yard touchdown. Midway through the third quarter, he took a run off the left side and exploded down the field for a 45-yard touchdown. That ended up being Michel's final carry, but he took his six carries for 137 yards and two touchdowns. Michel has starting potential for the NFL with speed, strength and versatility. Sources have told me that Michel has been getting second-day grades. The tape against Florida will help his chances of being a second-rounder rather than going in Round 3.) (10-31-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_09.php
Sony Michel, Nick Chubb run wild as Georgia destroys Florida (The Bulldogs’ two-headed running back monster of Sony Michel and Nick Chubb combined for 214 yards and three touchdowns on just 19 carries, averaging 11.2 yards per attempt between them.) (10-28-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/28/sony-michel-nick-chubb-run-wild-as-georgia-destroys-florida/
2018 NFL draft watch: LSU's D.J. Chark heads list of sleepers climbing the draft board (Sony Michel, RB, Georgia — Michel is overshadowed by UGA backfield mate Nick Chubb, but some NFL scouts see Michel as a more-rounded back. The senior rushed nine times for 86 yards and two touchdowns against Missouri. He looks like an early second-day pick at this point.) (10-15-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-ncaa-fbs-stars-highlights-sleepers-dj-chark/10ptpc793lxanzqzx51ch0t1u
Nick Chubb, Sony Michel run wild as Georgia destroys Vanderbilt (The two-headed monster in the Georgia backfield tore up the Commodores early and often, racking up nearly 300 yards on the ground between them) (10-7-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/07/nick-chubb-sony-michel-georgia-vanderbilt-nfl-draft/
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Saquon Barkley continues to showcase his skills (Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia — Chubb, and his backfield-mate Sony Michel, helped the Bulldogs cruise to a 41-0 win over Tennessee. Chubb, a 5-10, 225-pound senior, ran for 109 yards on just 16 carries while Michel, a 5-11, 215-pound senior, had 11 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown as Georgia completed just seven passes in the rout.) (10-1-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-saquon-barkley-nick-chubb-jordan-chunn-troy/1k1zpddd3xptb1kdw4vx901pf2
Scouting the SEC: Georgia (Sony Michel does show the ability to create yardage on occasion and possesses exceptional quickness for a 220-plus-pound ball carrier. He displays a burst through the hole which he turns on in a single step and runs with authority. I have him graded in the fifth round and believe Michel will be a good runner in a zone system at the next level.) (8-11-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-sec-georgia
2018 Prospect Preview: Sony Michel quietly becoming a notable receiving threat (8-10-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-sony-michel-quietly-becoming-a-notable-receiving-threat
RB Rashaad Penny:
Scouting Reports:
SDSU Profile: http://www.goaztecs.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/rashaad_penny_914421.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/rashaad-penny?id=2559898
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/20/rashaad-penny-nfl-draft-profile/
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=131349&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018rpenny.php
Articles:
San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny - a first-round talent (3-19-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-san-diego-state-rb-rashaad-penny-a-first-round-talent
TIM AND MIKE: Combine Day 5 observations (Special teamer: Running back Rashad Penny led the country with 2,248 rushing yards at San Diego State last year. He scored 23 touchdowns and was a Heisman Trophy finalist, but he said what separates him from other running backs is his play on special teams. Penny played on special teams all four years of college as a return man, and finished his career with eight return touchdowns. “I think that’s the most important part of the game,” he said. “If offense and defense isn’t going so well, then you can rely on special teams. I don’t think people know how important and how big of a play special teams makes on a game. So, I think that’s the most important part.” – Tim Twentyman) (3-4-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/TIM-AND-MIKE-Combine-Day-5-observations/a6754ec4-5138-48f2-bef2-c8d88e3251a4
Friday's winners, losers at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine (Winner - Rashaad Penny: Despite following up a 1,000-yard season as a backup with a 2,000-yard season as a senior, Penny was still somewhat under the radar heading into Friday’s drills. After his impressive 40-yard dash at his size, that should be the case no longer. The 5-11, 220-pounder’s time of 4.46 seconds backed up the explosiveness and breakaway ability he put on film over the past two seasons. He should have already been firmly planted among this year’s top five running back prospects, but his performance Friday should finally accomplish that for those who were still doubting.) (3-3-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/03/fridays-winners-losers-at-the-2018-nfl-scouting-combine/3/
Video - San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny runs an unofficial 4.47 40-yard dash (3-3-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/San-Diego-State-running-back-Rashaad-Penny-runs-an-unofficial-447-40-yard-dash/c713f758-dc33-4aa7-9340-f1b9c8aa514d
Combine: From superstars to sleepers, RBs excel (Another Senior Bowl standout — San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny — also made cents Friday. The 5-foot-11, 224-pound Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year helped quiet critics, clocking a pair of 4.47-second 40-yard-dash times. Penny, who led the nation with 2,248 rushing yards, starred during the Senior Bowl game, leading all running backs with 64 rushing yards and scoring on a 73-yard touchdown reception. That, however, came after a week of practice in which he struggled in pass protection and put the ball on the turf on a couple of occasions. Penny needed a strong workout Friday to reinforce the breakaway ability he showed at San Diego State and in Mobile, Ala., and he delivered, likely cementing himself as a second-round pick. He’ll have plenty of company.) (3-2-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/02/combine-from-superstars-to-sleepers-rbs-excel/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Daily updates from Indy (Rashaad Penny: Penny – our No. 3 ranked running back – had a strong athletic performance at the combine to back up a truly impressive body of work in 2017 on the field and a noteworthy Senior Bowl. Penny forced 86 missed tackles as a runner on the way to his 2,254 rushing yards and a 128.6 elusive rating that ranked No. 1 in the class. Penny wasn’t tackled on first contact 42.8 percent of the time last year which also ranked No. 1 in the class and he averaged 4.5 yards after contact per attempt. His 4.46 40-yard dash time at the combine backed up his game-breaking speed on film that he routinely showed off on long runs and kick returns. He also had a strong 10-foot broad jump and looked good running routes and catching the ball in receiving drills. – @PFF_Jordan) (3-2-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-scouting-combine-live-updates-from-indy
Running backs impress in Combine workouts (Other impressive sub-4.5 times were put in by San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny (4.46), Arizona State’s Kalen Ballage (4.46) and LSU’s Derrius Guice. All three of those players weigh 220 pounds or more, making their times even more impressive.) (3-2-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/Running-backs-impress-in-Combine-workouts/887903a5-0900-4111-8367-da3a1a815c92
TWENTYMAN: Comparing the top six running back prospects (Rashaad Penny - School: San Diego State (senior); Ht/Wt: 5-11, 220; Draft projection: Rounds 2-3; Total rushing yards: 2,248; Rushing Yds per game: 172.9; Yds per attempt: 7.8; 20-plus yrd runs: 28; TDs: 23; Twentyman: Workhorse. He liked the comparison between himself and Kareem Hunt. Like Hunt, Penny is coming from a non-power five conference. Hunt played at Toledo, and Penny at San Diego State. Penny really liked the fact that Hunt proved last year that a player doesn’t have to be the first running back taken to have an immediate impact. Quotable: “Speed. Power. Vision,” Penny said of some of the things that would be on an opponent’s scouting report of him. “I can keep my balance. I can catch the ball, which a lot of people don’t think I can. I’m just excited about (Friday’s on-field workouts) because it’ll speak for itself.”) (3-1-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Comparing-the-top-six-running-back-prospects/cb2a9a10-fa6b-47bc-8fb7-d649f73aef1e
Why Derrius Guice, Josh Adams, Sony Michel should get good looks from Lions at combine (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State: College football’s leading rusher last season, he gained over 100 yards in all but two games this year and finished the season with five straight 200-yard games. At 5-foot-11, 220 pounds, he’s built well enough to withstand consistent NFL hits. He’s the type of back who could be available and of great value on the second day of the draft.) (2-26-18): http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33319/why-derrius-guice-josh-adams-sony-michel-should-get-good-looks-from-lions-at-combine
2018 NFL Draft RB prospects ready to contribute to the passing game (Rashaad Penny: Penny was not used as a receiving weapon often at SDSU (20 catches on 27 targets in 2017), but he made the most of his opportunities by forcing five missed tackles after the catch and posting 30-plus yard gains on three separate occasions during the season. He also showed well during Senior Bowl practices, winning 67 percent of his 1-on-1 passing reps against linebackers, the second-best mark among running backs for the week. After some struggles early in the season, he surrendered just two total pressures in pass protection over the final six games and will need to continue to elevate this portion of his game for the next level.) (2-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-rb-prospects-ready-to-contribute-to-the-passing-game
Ten running backs worth pursuing in free agency/2018 NFL Draft (10. Rashaad Penny, draft prospect: A versatile player, Penny racked up 2,248 rushing yards with two receiving TDs and two kick-return scores last season. The 5-11 San Diego State back has long speed, good quick twitch, knee lift and lateral movement. With great acceleration, defenders must get to him before he gets to the line of scrimmage.) (2-22-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000917079/article/ten-running-backs-worth-pursuing-in-free-agency2018-nfl-draft
NFL combine preview: Running backs worth considering for the Lions (Rashaad Penny, San Diego State: The Lions are looking for a No. 1 back, and no college player shouldered more of that kind of load than Penny in 2017. He carried the football a staggering 289 times, and led the country with 2,248 yards in the process. He's a compact, powerful runner with really good speed -- good enough to be a game-changer on special teams as well. If the Lions go another direction on Day 1 -- and that seems like the safest bet -- Penny could be one of the better fits left on the board.) (2-21-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_combine_preview_running_ba.html
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Combine II (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State: Penny is a second-day prospect who has fans in the scouting community. Sources say that Penny is a super-talented running back. He is a smooth runner who has speed to go with his thick 5-foot-10, 224-pound build. Teams also like what Penny offers a team in the passing game and as a returner on special teams. Penny ran well as a senior, using his size to roll over a lot of weak opponents. He averaged 7.8 yards per carry for 2,248 yards with 23 touchdowns, plus made 19 receptions for 135 yards and two scores on the year. As a junior, Penny averaged 7.4 yards per carry for 1,005 yards with 11 touchdowns. Penny has some limitations in the mental aspect of the game, and that was a big contributor in him not having a great week at the Senior Bowl. Still, with his skill set and production, he could end up being a second-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.) (2-20-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_24.php
The most versatile offensive weapons in the 2018 draft (RB Rashaad Penny: Penny was one of the most explosive running backs in the nation in 2017 and few players were able to generate as much production on their own. Penny forced 86 missed tackles as a runner, which ranked No. 1 among all FBS draft-eligible running backs. Penny also generated a disgustingly high 4.46 yards after contact per attempt. Penny is a breakaway threat who had 35 runs of 15 or more yards, No. 1 among all FBS draft-eligible running backs. Penny played 32 snaps in the slot and nine snaps out at wide receiver, and showed during Senior Bowl week that he can be a factor in the pass game. Penny won 67 percent of his pass route one-on-ones during the Senior Bowl practices and during the game he had a 73-yard touchdown including 57 yards coming with his speed and ability after the catch. Penny can make an impact as a ball carrier, receiver, and returner. Penny is a deadly kick returner with seven career touchdown returns and a 29.7-yard average per return. Penny also had one punt return touchdown in 2017.) (2-16-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-the-most-versatile-offensive-weapons-in-the-2018-draft
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Penny routinely lit up stacked boxes at San Diego State (though it’s fair to point out that he was often facing stinky defenses in the Mountain West). He’s a gifted runner and also a strong return man. My grade on him is lower than many others because I don’t think Penny can play on third downs. I don’t see him as a fit for teams that like to air it out. Penny wasn’t used much as a receiver at SDSU, and he’s a horrific pass blocker. Dude is as reticent to meet oncoming blitzing linebackers as you are to get off the couch to meet your mother-in-law when she arrives on Thanksgiving.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Rashaad Penny - Best trait: Production. Lots of production. He led the nation with 2,248 rushing yards, and scored 23 touchdowns as a workhorse back with 289 carries. He also caught 19 passes and returned two kicks and one punt for a score. Good kick returners know how to set up their blocks well, and Penny showed that same thing this season and during the week of Senior Bowl practices in January. Concern: Penny isn't believed to have great long speed to be a home-run threat. The 40 time at the Combine will be interesting for him. Skinny: He went to the Senior Bowl to compete against tougher competition than he faced in college, and led the South Team with 64 rushing yards on nine carries (7.1 average). He also had a 73-yard touchdown reception. He runs hard, and can make defenders miss. He simply churns out yardage.) (2-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675
15 prospects for the 2018 NFL Draft who helped themselves at the Senior Bowl (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State: (Game – Overall grade: 78.4, Practice – Key stat: Won 67 percent of his pass route 1-on-1s.) Penny showed his breakaway ability in the game while showing how tough of a player he can be for linebackers to cover in the pass game when he caught and ran for a 73-yard touchdown including 57 yards coming with his speed and ability after the catch. He also displayed speed to the corner on outside runs. Penny took reps fielding punts in practices which combined with his game-breaking kick return ability, shows that he can be an instant special teams factor for his NFL team.) (1-31-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-15-prospects-for-the-2018-nfl-draft-who-helped-themselves-at-the-senior-bowl
Some film thoughts on 2018 NFL Draft prospects who played in Senior Bowl (The most impressive Lions target in this game was San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny, and he's starting to look more and more like the real deal. The nation's leader in rushing yards from last season got to play behind a big, bruising offensive line in this one, but his versatility was most noticeable. He showed burst and decisiveness up the middle, wiggle in the backfield, speed on a 34-yard gasher to the sideline and acceleration on a 73-yard wheel-route touchdown. His blend of size (5-11, 224 pounds), speed and contact balance shows he could have a bright future, though adjusting to a system without a lead fullback would be new for him. I don't see him going in the first round, but I'm not positive he'll last until the Lions' second pick. It gets hard to sort out the running backs in that second tier, but he's a good one. The one area of Penny's game that didn't show up here, and has rarely shown up over time, was pass protection. It's a learned trait for most college backs, and his work ethic and size suggests he'll learn it, but it does create lag time. A running back can't play in Matthew Stafford's shotgun- and audible-heavy offense until he has that down.) (1-29-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/some_2018_nfl_draft_thoughts_a.html
2018 Senior Bowl Game Report (Some were surprised to see San Diego St. RB Rashaad Penny ahead of bigger names like Nick Chubb and Sony Michel in my first set of rankings for the 2018 NFL Draft. It probably makes more sense to anyone who watched Penny go for 152 all-purpose yards in the 2018 Senior Bowl, including a catch he took 73 yards for a touchdown. For his efforts Penny was named co-Most Outstanding Player for the South team with L.S.U. WR D.J. Chark. Up to this point Penny hasn’t received as much attention as he deserves despite rushing for 2,248 yards (7.8 avg.) and 23 touchdowns as a senior. Perhaps it’s because he played on the West Coast and most of his games started so late. Whatever the reason, this performance should bring Penny’s name to the forefront and I expect the hype to continue to build as the draft approaches. Penny needs to improve as a blocker because no coach is going to put him on the field if he’s going to get their quarterback killed, regardless of talent. With that said, Penny is a dynamic playmaker as a runner, pass catcher and return man with the prototypical size (5-11 / 224) to be an every-down workhorse at the next level. Penny is my early pick to be this years Day 2 selection who dramatically outperforms his draft slot, a la Kareem Hunt and Alvin Kamara.) (1-28-18): http://www.draftcountdown.com/2018-senior-bowl-game-report/
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl recap: South team wins in blowout fashion (Running Back Overview - San Diego State running back Rashad Penny showed his breakaway ability and displayed his potential mismatch against linebackers in coverage, as he caught and ran for a 73-yard touchdown including 57 yards of which came after the catch. He also displayed speed to the corner on outside runs. His overall grade was 78.4) (1-28-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-recap
Senior Bowl: Richmond's Kyle Lauletta holds his own among elite QB prospects (Award Winners -- Chark and San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny were co-South Most Outstanding players. Penny ran nine times for 63 yards and caught a 73-yard touchdown pass from Virginia's Kurt Benkert. Allen was chosen as the Most Outstanding Player on the North.) (1-27-18): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2018/01/27/richmonds-kyle-lauletta-goes-from-fcs-to-senior-bowl-star/109874836/
2018 Senior Bowl: Winners, losers from Saturday's game (Another player who underachieved for much of the week in practice, Penny saved his best for last in Mobile. Rushing for 61 yards while averaging over seven yards per carry, Penny showed off his explosive, big-play ability with a 73-yard touchdown catch. While he still has a few rough edges in his game to smooth out, Penny proved he can be a dangerous three-down weapon at the next level.) (1-27-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/27/2018-senior-bowl-winners-losers-from-saturdays-game/5/
Rang’s Senior Bowl Wrap: Richmond QB Lauletta MVP (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State — There is no getting around it, Penny struggled during the week of practice, putting the ball on the ground several times and drawing the wrath of the Houston Texans’ coaching staff with a false start. The vision, stutter-step, quick acceleration and soft hands which helped the 5-11, 224-pounder lead the nation in rushing yards in 2017 and earn Mountain West Conference Special Teams Player of the Year the past three seasons showed up Saturday. Penny led all participants in all-purpose yards, highlighted by a 37-yard burst up the middle in the first quarter, and a 73-yard catch-and-run following a pretty little flip pass by Virginia’s Kurt Benkert.) (1-27-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/27/senior-bowl-report-qbs-seize-day-led-by-mvp-lauletta-2/
2018 NFL Draft watch: Top performers at Senior Bowl 2018 draft (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State — Penny is not the fastest back in the world, but he does have some of the best vision in the draft class this year. He is a good one-cut runner who always finds the opening and he has good top-end speed as well, so once he gets into the open field he can break it open. Penny finished with a game-high 64 rushing yards on nine carries and caught a 73-yard touchdown pass from Virginia QB Kurt Benkert.) (1-27-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-top-performers-senior-bowl-josh-allen-kyle-lauletta-baker-mayfield-marcus-davenport/1im8igtju687z1pbkppqe2sqed
2018 draft: 7 prospects who helped themselves in Senior Bowl (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State
Penny showed that he has plenty of burst, racking up 137 total yards (64 rushing, 73 receiving). His 73-yard TD catch showed the versatility that he brings to the table. In a year where we have so many good underclassmen running backs, he had to make a splash in this game to stay relevant. He definitely did that. I think he's positioned himself as a second-rounder at this point in the process.) (1-27-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000911375/article/2018-draft-7-prospects-who-helped-themselves-in-senior-bowl
10 players who impressed at Senior Bowl practices (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State, 5-11, 224: The nation’s leading rusher this year with over 2,200 yards and 23 touchdowns showed off the one-cut style that NFL personnel like. He’s a no nonsense runner that gets north and south as opposed to east and west. He also showed good hands as a punt returner. I don’t remember him dropping a ball all week. He’s got good size and speed, and also showed an ability this week to separate from linebackers in the pass game and make plays there. He did nothing this week to move himself out of the conversation as one of the top five backs available in this draft.) (1-26-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/10-players-who-impressed-at-Senior-Bowl-practices/45a8184a-bf33-440a-a68f-4936c49ff094
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: Penny's week started on a low note when he got lit up and fumbled Tuesday and ended with a thud when he struggled as a receiver Thursday. In between he showed good power, burst and explosiveness and was effective as a cutback runner, but he also lost another fumble and did little to stand out while looking like a back that may need to come off the field on third downs unless he can improve his consistency catching passes out of the backfield.) (1-26-18): draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018 SENIOR BOWL DAY 3 SOUTH: MARCUS DAVENPORT, HOST OF SMALL SCHOOLERS IMPRESS (San Diego State's Rashaad Penny struggled greatly as a pass catcher this week.) (1-25-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-3-south-marcus-davenport-host
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: Penny is effective as a runner and showed good power running behind his pads but was exposed as a below-average receiver out of the backfield who lacks soft hands and suffered from several drops.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl: Wednesday Practice Report: South Team (Aside from Akins' scores, the South defense came up big on that goal-line period. On a run from San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny, Akins' Central Florida teammate linebacker Shaquem Griffin got great penetration into the backfield to stuff Penny on the play. Benkert then attempted to throw a flat pass to LSU running back Darrel Williams, but Williams was immediately stonewalled by South Carolina State linebacker Darius Leonard, which draw applause from the crowd. Penny also created a reaction of his own from scouts in the stands after showing nice burst and wiggle through the hole on one play, but fumbled the ball away after taking a rattling hit from Auburn safety Tray Matthews. "That's twice he fumbled upon contact," a scout shouted. Penny needs to show better ball security along the goal line, because his role in the NFL would include short-yardage and goal-line situations.) (1-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018practice4.php
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Penny showed good burst and had a bounce in his step, proving effective on cutback runs. He continued to show capability as a receiver but alligator-armed balls on occasion and struggled making catches with defenders close in coverage.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl notebook: Davenport, Penny struggling for South (One of the oldest (and catchiest) cliches in scouting — the eye in the sky don’t lie — has not been kind to two of the highest rated prospects for the South Team thus far at the Senior Bowl. Projected first-round defensive end Marcus Davenport and the nation’s leading rusher, Rashaad Penny, have thus far failed to deliver on lofty expectations. Just as disconcerting for scouts is the poor play of the 5-11, 224-pound Penny, who galloped for 2,248 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2017 for San Diego State. While scouts remain intrigued by his vision, agility and straight-line speed, Penny has struggled with ball security, putting the ball on the ground at least four times over the first two days of practice, including mishandling returns and fumbling twice. Penny’s struggles as a returner are perhaps especially surprising given that he earned Mountain West Special Teams Player of the Year honors in 2017, becoming the first player to earn the award three consecutive years. He scored eight return touchdowns — seven off kick returns — in his career. Penny’s lack of focus has drawn the ire of the Texans’ coaches, who pulled him from the lineup during scrimmaging after a false start. Penny appeared to get an early jump on another play late in Tuesday’s practice, as well.) (1-24-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/24/senior-bowl-notebook-davenport-penny-struggling-for-south/
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 2 recap (South Carolina State’s Darius Leonard came up with some big goal-line plays by getting in on a stop of San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny.) (1-24-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-2-recap
PFF's 2018 Senior Bowl coverage (San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny continues his display of hands and skills across the board by fielding punts and running routes well) (1-24-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pffs-2018-senior-bowl-coverage
Plethora of backfield options could appeal to Lions (But for a team shopping for ball carriers, like the Detroit Lions, there’s still an intriguing mix of talent at the Senior Bowl, headlined by the nation’s leading rusher in 2017, San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny. In his first year as a featured back, Penny posted eye-popping numbers for the Aztecs, carrying the ball 289 times for 2,295 yards and 23 scores. He offers good bulk, at 224 pounds, and prefers to use that to his advantage, focusing his attack between the tackles. “Definitely a one-cut guy, I like getting north and south,” Penny said. “There’s really no point in going east and west. East and west is going backwards. When you’re going north and south, you’re going straight forward.” The Lions spent too much time attempting to run around the edge of the defense last season. Ameer Abdullah, the starter for much of the season, was one of the league’s least efficient backs due to this strategy, running horizontally 5.1 yards for every yard gained. Not being able to run up the gut effectively is a primary reason the Lions finished last in the NFL in rushing yards, and also why they had the league’s worst success rate on power runs — third or fourth down plays needing two or fewer yards to convert a first down or score a touchdown. That kind of success on third-and-short is inconceivable to Penny. “It doesn’t matter who is in the hole, there can be four guys in the hole, you definitely got to get the first down,” he said. “That’s how I was taught by my running backs coach at San Diego State.” And despite the big production, Penny isn’t considered a top back in his class. He’s OK with that and eager to prove himself at the next level. He draws inspiration from Kareem Hunt, the Toldeo product who was overlooked before being selected in the third round last year (No. 86 overall). He went on to lead the NFL in rushing as a rookie with 1,327 yards. “I know I can probably contribute the same way he’s done,” Penny said. Both Penny and Ballage also offer return ability. Penny has been one of the best on kickoffs the past three seasons, averaging better than 30 yards each year and scoring seven touchdowns.) (1-24-18): www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/24/plethora-backfield-options-could-appeal-lions/109786088/
Video - Analysts say Penny is one of Mobile's best backs (1-24-18): www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Analysts-say-Penny-is-one-of-Mobiles-best-backs/f02bada5-22b2-4499-b077-02679a96456a
Video - Rashaad Penny talks about early success for NFL RBs (1-24-18): www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/24/rashaad-penny-talks-early-success-nfl-rbs/109784300/
Running backs looking to impress at Senior Bowl (There are also a number of intriguing seniors down here at the Senior Bowl that hope to make a mark this week. That group is led by the NCAA’s leading rusher last season, San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny (5-11, 224), who recorded 2,248 rushing yards (7.8 average) and 23 touchdowns. He had an explosive run percentage of 12.4, according to Pro Football Focus. Penny is a one-cut power back hoping to show scouts he also has speed to reach the edge. “I like getting north and south,” Penny said Tuesday. “I mean, there’s really no point of going east and west. East and west is going backwards. Going north and south is going forward.” Lions fans will certainly like to hear a back with that kind of attitude after Detroit finished with the seventh-most negative runs in the NFL last season, struggled in short-yardage rushing situations, and had the second-fewest percentage of rushes gaining at least four yards (36.4 percent) in the league last season.) (1-24-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Running-backs-looking-to-impress-at-Senior-Bowl/1fa9184b-e074-4c6d-a31a-dbc33f8ec184
Six offensive prospects to pay attention to throughout the week (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State (South No. 20): He followed up a 1,000-yard season in 2016 with a 2,248-yard, 23-touchdown final season in 2017. Averaging 7.8 yards per carry, he’s the type of back the Lions might end up searching for to complement their backfield. At 5-foot-11, 220 pounds, he’s much different than Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick, which is important for a running back room that needs some new energy. That he’s a dynamic kick returner doesn’t hurt, either, with seven kicks returned for touchdowns during his final three seasons with the Aztecs. The Lions have Jamal Agnew, one of the best punt returners in the NFL. Penny could add to that as a kick returner.) (1-24-18): http://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33057/why-the-lions-should-watch-rb-kalen-ballage-at-senior-bowl-this-week
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Tues: Penny was on the wrong end of the day's biggest play when Tre' Williams lit him up and forced a fumble, but he looked solid as a receiver out of the backfield and consistently separated from linebackers.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
A Penny for the Lions' thoughts at RB? Maybe (1-23-18): www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/24/rashaad-penny-detroit-lions-thoughts-running-back-maybe/1060337001/
Twentyman: Senior Bowl Day 1 observations (Oohs and aahs: Auburn inside linebacker Tre’ Williams had the defensive play of the day that got a good reaction from the crowd at the South practice. Williams busted into the backfield during a team rep, separated the ball from running back Rashaad Penny with nice pop, and then recovered the fumble himself.) (1-23-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/news-short/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Senior-Bowl-Day-1-observations/db1026ad-501b-4a79-98d0-1800e55eed59
Senior Bowl 2018: Observations from the first two practices in Mobile, Alabama (San Diego State runner Rashaad Penny had his issues with his blitz pickups until he drove back Virginia linebacker Micah Kiser when the defender tried a spin move.) (1-23-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-observations-from-the-first-two-practices-in-mobile-alabama/
PFF's 2018 Senior Bowl coverage (San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny taking turns returning punts) (1-23-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-pffs-2018-senior-bowl-coverage
Here are 8 NFL Draft prospects for Lions to watch at the Senior Bowl (Rashaad Penny, San Diego State RB: Do you know who led all of college football in rushing yards this season? If you guessed Bryce Love, you're wrong. He finished second to Rashaad Penny, who rolled through defenses for 2,248 yards on 7.8 yards per carry this season. He ran for dominance and volume and versatility, and he'll soon be put to some bigger tests. At 5 feet 11 inches and 224 pounds, he's more than a scat back. Showing improvement in pass protection will be critical, as that was a lacking part of his game this year. In a loaded running back class, he has a chance to be one of the first taken on the second day.) (1-23-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_some_nfl_draft_prospe.html
Mayfield, Allen, and the Senior Bowl Prospects to Watch (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State: FBS’s leading rusher is a Day 2 prospect as of right now. Could he sneak in the first round? The details will matter here – one big area where he’ll have to show his ability is in pass protection – as he tries to distinguish himself among a crowded class of tailbacks.) (1-23-18): https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/01/23/senior-bowl-prospects-baker-mayfield-josh-allen-marcus-davenport
Senior Bowl primer: NFL draft prospects to watch this week in Mobile (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State: Penny's former teammate, 2017 Eagles' fourth-rounder Donnel Pumphrey, stood out at this event last year, but for different reasons than Penny might. Pumphrey showed Darren Sproles-like traits with his quickness and versatility; Penny certainly has the versatility (NCAA record 8 return TDs) but he's a much bigger and more physical back than Pumphrey. If he shows a three-down skill set to go along with his prolific 2017 production, Penny won't be overlooked in a deep RB class for too long.) (1-22-18): www.profootballweekly.com/lists/2018/01/19/2a771b39291247f38d9c9b6e83533218/index.xml?page=1
Senior Bowl 2018: Five players to watch who may interest Detroit Lions (RB Rashaad Penny, San Diego State — If not defensive end, then running back might be the Lions’ biggest need this offseason, and the early word is there’s good depth at the position once again. Most of the draft’s top backs aren’t in Mobile, but Penny, Oregon’s Royce Freeman and unique North Carolina State back Jaylen Samuels are three to watch. Samuels caught 76 passes as a hybrid fullback this season, and it’ll be interesting to see how he’s used at the Senior Bowl. Penny is a pure rusher who led the NCAA with 2,248 yards. With a good week, he can solidify himself as a top 75 pick.) (1-22-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/22/detroit-lions-nfl-draft-senior-bowl/1053777001/
2018 Senior Bowl Week (San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny - At his best, Penny is a one cut, hit the seam and go runner. His long speed is great for his size, and that frequently popped up on long runs. It is difficult for running backs to show their contact balance at all-star games, since defenders are not attempting to take ball carriers to the ground. However, that is my question with Penny, as is his reaction to well-defended fronts. Will he pick up what is blocked, create more, or lose yards by trying to do too much? And possibly most importantly, how is his pass protection?) (1-22-18): http://rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77476/351/2018-senior-bowl-week
Senior Bowl Preview -- The Offense (Last January, Donnel Pumphrey benefited from a good showing at the Senior Bowl. This year, his former teammate Rashaad Penny hopes to do the same. Penny is considered a much better NFL prospect, and the San Diego State senior ran roughshod over opponents last season. He needs to display perimeter quickness and solid pass-catching hands to jump into the draft’s second day.) (1-21-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-preview-offense-0
2018 Senior Bowl preview: Running Backs (Rashaad Penny: Even while Donnel Pumphrey was racking up record-breaking numbers in 2016, Penny tallied 1,000 rushing yards himself as a backup, making a huge impact in the return game along the way. This year, Penny took full advantage of his chance to be the lead dog for the Aztecs, topping 2,000 yards rushing and continuing to be one of the most dangerous return men in the nation. Despite his ridiculous production, ideal size and complete skill set, Penny still seems to be underrated in a deep running back class. A strong showing in Mobile could firmly plant him among the top five runners in this class, where he should have been all along.) (1-18-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/18/2018-senior-bowl-preview-running-backs/
SI's 2017-18 All-Bowl Team (RB Rashaad Penny - Armed Forces Bowl: Penny could have run for 400 yards if the offense had the ball enough—in fact, his chunk plays may have ultimately worn out his own defense, which spent most of the game taking a beating from Army’s option attack. Penny capped off a brilliant career with 221 yards and four touchdowns in a 42–35 loss to Army.) (1-10-18): https://www.si.com/college-football/2018/01/10/all-bowl-team(-sony-michel-rashaad-penny-michael-dickson
NFL Draft 2018 could offer hope for Lions in form of these 10 running backs (Rashaad Penny, San Diego State: Rashaad Penny didn't dominate one of the best conferences in college football this year. He did dominate, though. The senior ran for more yards than any back in the country this season when he piled up 2,248 on 7.8 yards per carry. For a smaller-school back, he checks a lot of boxes: He's a workhorse, taking 327 touches in 13 games. He's versatile, scoring two touchdowns each as a receiver and a kick returner. And he's efficient, piling up 27 touchdowns in one year. At a listed 5 feet 11 inches and 220 pounds, he has a solid frame to go with strong elusiveness in the open field. He could be had after the first round due to the level of competition and what he has to prove.) (1-8-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_10_running_back_prosp.html
2018 NFL Draft top names to know (Rashaad Penny - Overall Grade of 86.6 - Penny plays in a RB-friendly system at San Diego State and has produced at an elite level with little national fanfare. Penny has forced 74 missed tackles – which leads all draft-eligible running backs – on his 277 rushing attempts. His elusive rating of 109.7 ranks No. 2 among draft-eligible running backs behind only Stanford’s Bryce Love. Penny also has breakaway speed in addition to his “make-you-miss” moves and his 31 runs of 15 yards or more ties him for first in the draft class with Love. Penny’s game-breaking speed is also evident by his punt return touchdown and two kickoff return touchdowns this season. — @PFF_Jordan) (1-5-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-top-names-to-know
3 Thoughts: Of Penny, personal fouls and promise for the future (1. Penny thoughts: Rashaad Penny’s emergence this year was no surprise to anyone who has been following SDSU football the past few seasons. But that didn’t mean he wasn’t full of surprises this season. It was a joy to watch. Penny showed something special as a kickoff returner from his freshman year and glimpses of greatness as a backup running back to D.J. Pumphrey (remember those wheel route TD catches last season?). It’s not as if a guy who rushed for more than 1,000 yards as a junior came out of nowhere, even if much of the country was asleep. As the featured back, could Penny really match Pumphrey with a second straight 2,000-yard season for the school? Why, yes. And then some. A school-record 2,248 yards, the fifth-highest total in NCAA history, and a school-record 28 touchdowns. Capping his career with a 221-yard, four-touchdown performance against Army was the perfect way for Penny to go out (final outcome aside). We will remember all the big runs, nearly a dozen of 50 yards or more this season. We will remember the size to put a lick on a defender but the speed to outrun his pursuers. We will remember the one player he trucked at UNLV and the other one he dragged behind him at San Jose State. We will remember an NCAA-record tying seven kickoff returns for touchdowns and five straight 200-yard games to finish his career. And we will remember his humility — quickly crediting teammates and coaches for his success — and maturity — whether it was dealing with an intentional eye gouge by a Northern Illinois player or errors of omission by Doak Walker Award voters.) (12-24-17): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/aztecs/sd-sp-azfoot-three-thoughts-on-sdsu-loss-to-army-122-story.html
See all 4 of San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny's astonishing TD runs (12-23-17): http://ftw.usatoday.com/2017/12/rashaad-penny-sdsu-san-diego-armed-forces-bowl-army-touchdown-runs-highlights-video
Rashaad Penny tops 200 rushing yards for 5th straight game (12-23-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/23/rashaad-penny-tops-200-rushing-yards-for-5th-straight-game/
Record-setting day for Rashaad Penny not enough for San Diego State as Army wins a wild Armed Forces Bowl (Penny, who led FBS in rushing yards and all-purpose yardage, once again showed why he should have been invited to New York for the Heisman Trophy ceremony earlier in the month. He tied a FBS record with 200+ yards rushing for a fifth straight game — and needed only 10 carries to hit the mark to boot. All told the senior finished with 221 yards on just 14 carries while recording four touchdowns on the day, including the first points of the game on his second carry as he scampered 81 yards untouched to the end zone. The star running back also set the Aztecs’ single-season school rushing record when he scored a 31 yard touchdown early in the second quarter, breaking the mark set by last season’s leading rusher and his good friend, Donnel Pumphrey.) (12-23-17): http://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/12/23/record-setting-day-for-rashaad-penny-not-enough-for-san-diego-state-as-army-wins-a-wild-armed-forces-bowl/
2018 NFL draft prospects to watch during college bowls, Week 2 (San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny: In replacing the NCAA-all-time leader in rushing yards (Donnel Pumphrey), all Penny did this year for the Aztecs was force 74 missed tackles on the ground, the second-most of any running back this season. He averaged a staggering 4.26 yards after contact, per attempt, the 12th-most among qualifying backs, but third-most among running backs with 200 or more carries. Oh, he also recorded three return touchdowns this season, two from kickoffs and a punt return showing his dynamics with the ball in his hands.) (12-22-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-during-college-bowls-week-2
Sources Tell Us (The scoop: "You know exactly who he is when you watch the tape. I don't think there are going to be any surprises when you get him into our league because you know he is going to make guys miss and he's going to run hard every snap." -- NFC regional scout on San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny. The skinny: Penny will finish off his SDSU career on Saturday against Army in the Armed Forces Bowl. He was consistently dominant in 2017, finishing the regular season with an FBS-best 2,027 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns. I agree with this scout's assessment that Penny's tape provides a clear representation of who he is as a runner. Penny is a slasher who understands angles and runs through arm tackles. While there might be some debate about his ceiling, I expect to hear Penny's name called on Day 2 (Rounds 2-3) of the 2018 draft.) (12-21-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000896179/article/sources-tell-us-minkah-fitzpatrick-as-talented-as-jamal-adams
Top 5 future NFL stars to watch in Dec. 20-24 bowl games (4. Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State - Game: Armed Forces Bowl vs. Army, Dec. 23 - Penny is still looking for respect despite leading the nation with 2,027 rushing yards. The Aztecs have had a rusher exceed 2,000 yards in two consecutive seasons, but it seems Penny's game will translate to the NFL better than that of his predecessor, Donnel Pumphrey, a fourth-round pick in 2017 who set the NCAA record for career rushing yards after covering 2,133 yards on the ground last year. Penny is willing to press the hole as quickly as any back in the country, which means he's at full speed when a lane appears. While he's not elite in terms of power, Penny does churn through contact and usually falls forward for the extra yard. We'll see if Army is able to stack the box during the Armed Forces Bowl to stop Penny before he gets started.) (12-20-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000895877/artic(e/top-5-future-nfl-stars-to-watch-in-dec-2024-bowl-games
Scouting the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl: San Diego State vs. Army (Rashaad Penny went over 2,000 yards in San Diego State’s regular-season finale as part of a massive breakout season with Donnel Pumphrey now in the NFL, and Penny is also a better next-level prospect than his former teammate was. A sturdy 5-foot-11, 220 pounds, Penny is an effective inside runner capable of adding yards after initial contact, and he impresses with his burst and foot quickness while losing little momentum when changing direction. An effective receiver out of the backfield who has split out wide or in the slot at times, Penny catches the ball away from his body and projects as a versatile three-down back whose seven career kick-return touchdowns give him added value on special teams.) (12-15-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-lockheed-martin-armed-forces-bowl-san-diego-state-vs-army
Browns could be juggernaut; 5 bowls that will shape NFL draft (Rashaad Penny, San Diego State: You can't argue with Penny's production and he adds value in the return game, as well. He's a much better NFL prospect than former SDSU RB Donnel Pumphrey (fourth-round pick of the Eagles) was last spring.) (12-15-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000893205/article/browns-could-be-juggernaut-5-bowls-that-will-shape-nfl-draft
Senior Bowl adds 26 players for 2018 game, including 4 QBs (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State - Nation's leading rusher with 2,027 yards. The only 2,000-yard rusher in the country. Finished 2017 with four straight 200-yard rushing games. Also tied NCAA record with 7 career kick return touchdowns. 2017 Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year and Special Teams Player of the Year.) (12-4-17): http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2017/12/senior_bowl_adds_26_players_fo.html
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Drew Lock sets SEC passing TD record (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State — Penny isn't as shifty as his predecessor Donnel Pumphrey, but the senior who is listed at 5-11, 225 pounds can carry a load and has done so all year. He was the first RB to eclipse the 2,000-yard mark this season and did so with a 22-carry, 203-yard performance against New Mexico. He's a one-cut runner that doesn't have breakaway speed, but he doens't have a ton of tread on his tires since he has started for one year, and he is very strong.) (11-25-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-drew-lock-missouri-sec-passing-td-record/85tgbd51ocod1use8yowmltla
Rashaad Penny eclipses 2,000 rushing yards, makes college football history (11-24-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/24/rashaad-penny-2000-yards-donnel-pumphrey-san-diego-state/
San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny goes off for four TDs and school-record 429 yards (11-19-17): https://www.ncaa.com/news/football/article/2017-11-19/san-diego-state-running-back-rashaad-penny-goes-four-tds-and-school
Rashaad Penny racks up 429 total yards, 4 touchdowns vs. Nevada (11-19-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/19/rashaad-penny-racks-up-429-total-yards-4-touchdowns-vs-nevada/
Ranking 2018 NFL draft RBs by elusive rating (5. Rashaad Penny - Total Touches/Total Missed Tackles forced/Elusive Rating: 248/60/97.5 - Rashaad Penny is one of the most productive yet little known players in the country. Penny has 931 yards after contact on the season and averaging 4.0 yards after contact per attempt. Penny has performed well against Power-5 competition and rushed for 214 yards against Arizona State with 188 of those yards coming after contact and forcing four missed tackles on 19 carries. Against Stanford, Penny had 106 yards after contact and forced six missed tackles on 32 carries. Penny is also a dangerous kick returner who has at least one kick return for a touchdown in three straight seasons.) (11-14-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-ranking-2018-nfl-draft-rbs-by-elusive-rating
A handful of guys to watch from non-Power 5 schools who (unlike Allen) you probably haven’t heard much about. (Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State: He somehow got to 1,000 yards playing behind 2,000-yard rusher (and current Eagle) Donnel Pumphrey last year, and Penny has averaged over seven yards per carry again this year. He’s rushed for 1,602 yards though 10 games this year. The 220-pounder should be a factor in a crowded crew of backs.) (11-14-17): https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/11/14/josh-allen-wyoming-2018-nfl-draft-top-small-school-prospects
Ranking 2018 NFL draft RBs by missed tackles forced (2. Rashaad Penney - 48 Missed Tackles Forced - Carries/receptions/total missed tackles forced per: 166/16/46/2 - In 2016, Penny had to sit behind the NCAA career rushing yards leader in Pumphrey, to which he responded with 992 yards on 134 carries and 31 missed tackles a season ago. This year he has shown just how good he can be with the full workload. Penny has forced 48 total missed tackles including 46 on his 166 carries this season. He has eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark already in just seven games and has totaled over 100 yards after contact in three games this season. Forcing all those missed tackles have paved the way for him to break off 19 breakaway runs for 583 total yards – both of which are second to Love.) (10-19-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-ranking-rbs-by-missed-tackles-forced
Surprise! Bet you didn't see this coming in 2017 (Penny is probably someone you've never heard of, but he picked up right where Donnel Pumphrey left off at San Diego State when he rushed for a nation-best 2,133 yards last year. Penny hit 1,000 yards last year -- as Pumphrey's backup -- and he's 7 yards away from hitting it again this year. Penny is second in the nation in rushing and has 14 20-plus-yard runs with 28 10-plus-yard runs. Say what you will about his competition, but against Stanford, Penny ran for 175 yards and a touchdown to Love's 184 yards and two scores, but his team won. He's also used in the passing game more, catching 16 passes for 127 yards and two scores. As it stands now, Penny has 1,325 all-purpose yards to Barkley's 1,302.) (10-10-17): http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/20969921/washington-state-cougars-year-running-back-biggest-surprises-2017
WATCH: SDSU RB Rashaad Penny trucks defender into another universe (10-8-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/08/watch-sdsu-rb-rashaad-penny-trucks-defender-into-another-universe/
The Rashaad Penny show trucks through Stanford in upset win (9-17-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/17/the-rashaad-penny-show-trucks-through-stanford-in-upset-win/
SDSU RB Rashaad Penny already dominating in Donnel Pumphrey's absence (9-10-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/10/sdsu-rb-rashaad-penny-already-dominating-in-donnel-pumphreys-absence/
Identity crisis: ASU overpowered in 30-20 loss to San Diego State (As expected, San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny was excellent. Defensive coordinator Phil Bennett called the senior running back an NFL talent, and Penny showed as much. He rushed for 216 yards, which included a 95-yard touchdown run. He also returned a kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown. His 33-yard touchdown (on the busted third-down coverage) gave the Aztecs a 30-14 lead late in the third quarter. "I don't think any one was more impressive than any other one," Long said. "Just seeing what we knew all along. We think he is one of the best running backs in the country.") (9-10-17): https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/ncaaf/asu/2017/09/10/asu-football-game-vs-san-diego-state-saturday-night/650211001/
Tuesday Draft Notes -- 2.0 (Scouts are not concerned about the game-day speed of San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny, a Week 3 riser. Scouts like everything about his game: size, speed, tenacity and versatility. The fact that he easily made the transition to feature ball carrier for SDSU this season after previously rotating behind Donnel Pumphrey is another positive in his favor. From where I sit right now, Penny’s week at the Senior Bowl -- assuming he attends -- will be a major factor in his final draft grade, but the arrow is pointing north on his draft stock.) (9-19-17): http://draftanalyst.com/tuesday-draft-notes-20
PFF Draft Watch: Draft Board Risers - Week 3 (Rashaad Penny - Penny continues to produce in three-phases for the Aztecs and against tough competition. San Diego State only had two Power-5 opponents on their 2017 regular season schedule – Arizona State and Stanford – but Penny has rushed for over 180 yards in each game. Penny has forced 19 missed tackles as a runner in 2017, while also contributing in the Aztecs’ pass game showing his next-level versatility. Penny has caught nine of his 11 targets for 69 yards and one touchdown, forcing two missed tackles as a receiver. Penny is also a game-breaking kick returner and showed that once again in Week 2 by returning a kick 99-yards for a touchdown against Arizona State.) (9-19-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-draft-board-risers-week-3
Week 3 Risers and Sliders (Rashaad Penny/RB/San Diego State: Much has been written about Penny the past few weeks, and the praise thrown his way is justified. I chose to hold off until after the Stanford game, as it would be the Aztecs' biggest test this season, something we mentioned in our matchup preview. Penny helped carry the Aztecs to a passing grade finishing with 175 rushing yards on 32 carries (5.5 yard average) and a touchdown. He also added five receptions for 32 yards. Taking over as the primary ball carrier at SDSU, Penny has displayed the skills necessary to be a feature runner and three-down back on Sunday. Given middle-round grades entering the season, Penny is moving into the draft’s second day.) (9-18-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-3-risers-sliders
Week 3 Prospect Matchups: Clemson-Louisville (Aztec running back Rashaad Penny has been mentioned often the past two weeks and with good reason. After putting up 197 yards on the ground against UC Davis, including a 61-yard touchdown run, Penny bettered that performance with 216 yards against Arizona State and a 95-yard scoring scamper. Compared to Donnel Pumphrey, his record-setting teammate presently with the Philadelphia Eagles, Penny has better NFL size with the ability to pound it out on the inside and pick up yardage off initial contact. He shows terrific short-area quickness for a 220-pound ball carrier, and there’s not much stop-and-start in Penny's game when he changes direction or cuts against the grain.) (9-15-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-3-prospect-matchups-clemson-louisville
PFF Draft Watch: Rashaad Penny takes over at SDSU (9-4-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-rashaad-penny-takes-over-at-sdsu
2018 NFL draft: Mountain West scouting preview (Top Offensive Sleeper: Even with record-breaker Donnel Pumphrey in his backfield, Penny still put up some impressive numbers in 2016, rushing for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging a stellar 7.4 yards per carry. A well-built runner at 5-11, 220 pounds, Penny’s versatility was also on display last season, as he averaged nearly 15 yards per catch and hauled in three touchdowns out of the backfield. With Pumphrey gone, Penny should relish his role as the lead dog in the Aztecs backfield, and the attention of NFL scouts should follow.) (8-21-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/08/21/2018-nfl-draft-mountain-west-scouting-preview/3/
2018 NFL Draft Watch: FBS Running Back Overview (Rashaad Penny, San Diego State: Like Love at Stanford, Penny has to replace a legend in departed NCAA career rushing leader, Donnel Pumphrey. He’s been productive when called upon, ranking 10th in the draft class with a 109.0 elusive rating last season and ranking third with 2.60 yards per route.) (8-10-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-watch-fbs-running-back-overview
2018 NFL draft: 10 prospects to watch from outside the Power 5 (Rashaad Penny: Donnel Pumphrey got all the headlines last season, and with good reason, but the Aztecs have another talented back waiting in the wings, and 2017 in Penny’s chance to shine. Even while playing second-fiddle to a record-breaker, Penny made the most of his opportunities, rushing for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging a staggering 7.5 yards per carry. Listed at 5-11, 220 pounds, Penny has the frame to handle the pounding of the NFL, and he brings added value as a return specialist, having taken home the Mountain West’s Special Teams Player of the Year in each of the last two seasons.) (6-4-17): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/06/04/2018-nfl-draft-10-prospects-to-watch-from-outside-the-power-5/7/
RB Jaylen Samuels:
Scouting Reports:
NC State Profile: http://gopack.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4759&path=footbal
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/jaylen-samuels?id=2559930
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130722&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018jsamuels.php
Articles:
Meet Jaylen Samuels, the Swiss Army knife of the 2018 NFL draft (3-9-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/08/meet-jaylen-samuels-the-swiss-army-knife-of-the-2018-nfl-draft/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Daily updates from Indy (Jaylen Samuels: We identified Samuels as one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the draft class and he is our No. 9 ranked tight end. Samuels is one of the premier mismatch weapons in the draft and showed why with a 4.54 40-yard dash, demonstrating his long speed and why it’s difficult for linebackers to stay with him in coverage down the field. He weighed in at 225-pounds which has many NFL teams leaning towards playing him more in a running back role but one that should be used heavily in the pass game. Samuels had 42 receptions in the slot last season which ranked No. 2 among tight ends in the draft class and he showed off his natural hands in pass-catching drills. Samuels also had a strong 10-foot-1 broad jump. – @PFF_Jordan) (3-3-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-scouting-combine-live-updates-from-indy
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: QB, WR, and TE groups (Studs - Jaylen Samuels (NC State) is a favorite of mine. He was grouped with the tight ends today, but he is more likely an H-back/running back in the NFL. Samuels checked the measurables for a running back and looked comfortable in the on-field receiving drills with the tight ends.) (3-3-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/03/nfl-combine-studs-and-duds-qb-wr-and-te-groups/
Bold predictions: 2018 NFL Scouting Combine studs and duds (3. All-Star studs, turned Combine duds? There will be plenty of players who fail to build upon their flashy all-star game performances and settle back down on draft boards. Take North Carolina State’s do-everything weapon Jaylen Samuels, for example. The 6-0, 223-pound dual threat was arguably the best running back at the Senior Bowl, but scouts are expecting 40-yard dash times in the mid-4.6s, which might put a Day Three cap on his draft stock.) (2-18-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/18/bold-predictions-2018-nfl-scouting-combine-studs-and-duds/
The most versatile offensive weapons in the 2018 draft (TE/WR/RB Jaylen Samuels: It was difficult to even give Samuels an official position in college with the way NC State used him on offense, and he’ll be even more difficult to slot at the next level. He was a part tight end, part running back, part slot receiver for the Wolfpack, finishing his college career with 1,865 receiving yards and 1,095 rushing yards to go with 47 total touchdowns (19 receiving, 28 rushing). Samuels has the quickness to be handed the ball in a traditional run game or on jet sweeps while lining up all over the field to create mismatches in the passing game. Other than a difference in size, he is reminiscent of Eagles TE Trey Burton, who came out of college as a jack of all trades and has tapped into some of that ability at the next level.) (2-16-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-the-most-versatile-offensive-weapons-in-the-2018-draft
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Samuels isn’t a fullback. But he also isn’t a tight end, which is the position he’s listed at for the NFL Combine and also the position the Wolfpack listed him at. He’s more running back than fullback, but the NFL likely won’t use him as a prototypical RB either. What Samuels is, is an offensive weapon. That term is stupidly cliché to the point of losing its meaning, which is unfortunate, because in this case it truly applies. Samuels can run, he can block, and he can catch—all at a high level. He moves around the formation and plays different positions, including slot receiver. Call him an H-back, call him a TE, call him whatever you want—he’s a guy who will cause headaches on all three downs at the next level. Nearly guaranteed of being underdrafted, and just as nearly guaranteed of getting plucked up by one of the NFL’s more intelligent front offices. The Patriots and Eagles both make a lot of sense.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 NFL Draft: Here's a list of the best players not invited to the combine (Jaylen Smith, WR, Louisville: Smith had drop issues in college. Per Pro Football Focus, he was credited with 13 drops in three seasons and seven in 2017 alone. Then again, at around 6-3 and 215 pounds with above-average downfield speed and a career 16.9 yards-per-catch average, Smith seemed like a prospect worthy of a combine invite.) (2-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-heres-a-list-of-the-best-players-not-invited-to-the-combine/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Analysis: The biggest takeaway from Samuels’ week of practice with his patience as a runner at a position he’s never played on a full-time basis. He sets up blocks nicely and showed the quickness to navigate inside running lanes, following his blocks before showing good burst once holes opened. He looked natural as a receiver, used his size to separate and was effective as an inside runner. The team that drafts him would be wise to utilize his versatility but in the end, he's a running back, and one who made his case to go towards the back of the top 100 picks.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl notebook: Top 15 performers (10. Jaylen Samuels, RB, NC State: A do-everything weapon in college, Samuels lined up strictly at running back during practices and out-performed the other backs on the field. As expected, he did his best work during pass-catching drills as none of the linebackers could stick with his route quickness. Samuels and his versatility has him destined for the second day of the draft.) (1-26-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/26/senior-bowl-notebook-top-15-performers/
NFL draft: The most versatile players we saw at the Senior Bowl (Jaylen Samuels, North Carolina State: What position does he play? We’re not sure, but we think that’s a good thing. And after watching him in practice, it’s clear that Samuels needs to be unleashed in some form as a pass catcher. He has extremely quick feet and moved like a receiver or H-back in the receiving drills, to the point where a creative offensive coordinator really can have fun with him. Call him an "offensive weapon," if you will. The 5-11, 223-pound Samuels lined up at running back (where he looked surprisingly sudden) and slot receiver, and we could see him used in an offset or hybrid role (some might call him an “F-back”) in the right scheme. He looked to us like a more gifted Jacob Hester or a more thickly built Bilal Powell. Perhaps Samuels isn’t quite the explosive athlete that smaller tight ends such as Dorin Dickerson, Jordan Reed or Dustin Keller were coming out, but there’s a role for him. Samuels was first-Team All-ACC for a reason. He had a career-high 69 receptions for 551 yards and career-high 383 rushing yards with 15 total touchdowns in 2017. Maybe Josh McDaniels could use someone like that with the Indianapolis Colts, who didn’t get enough from their backs in the passing game last season.) (1-26-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/01/26/nfl-draft-the-most-versatile-players-we-saw-at-the-senior-bowl/ad96muz/
Senior Bowl notebook: Quarterbacks impressive at North practice (North Carolina State running back Jaylen Samuels was a tough assignment for the North linebackers and safeties during one-on-one drills. Samuels used quick feet and timing to skirt the defender and create separation in coverage, giving the quarterback a clean target. A “Swiss army knife” skill player, Samuels played running back, wide receiver, fullback and tight end in college and is ideally suited for a hybrid role in the NFL where a play-caller utilizes him in different ways. He isn’t as dangerous a ball-carrier as San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny, but Samuels might be higher on several draft boards because of his do-everything versatility.) (1-25-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/members/news/cfb_column.php?story_id=188054
2018 SENIOR BOWL DAY 3 NORTH: JAYLEN SAMUELS, KEMOKO TURAY STAND OUT (NC State's Jaylen Samuels has expectedly been the most impressive, complete running back here (followed closely behind by Kalen Ballage). But Samuels especially got to show off his route separation and overall comfort as a pass catcher. In-season, Samuels was compared (very optimistically) by scouts to Aaron Hernandez, Jordan Reed, and David Johnson. He's not quite any of those playres stylistcally or upside-wise, but the versatility is what stands out. He didn't get a chance to show he's a dominant back at NC State, but he's showing that he's an NFL starter here at the Senior Bowl.) (1-25-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-3-north-jaylen-samuels-kemoko
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Thurs: Samuels plays to his size, showing power when lowering his shoulders and using his body nicely to shield defenders from passes thrown his way, but he needs a moment to gather himself before heading upfield after adjusting to errant passes.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Wed: Samuels doesn’t have great speed but is a smooth mover who shows great patience on the inside, rarely running at full speed before he reaches the open field. He follows his blockers and is efficient with his movements and had another good day catching the football.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl Interview: Jaylen Samuels (1-24-18): walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018jaylensamuels.php
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 2 recap (While North Carolina State’s Jaylen Samuels is listed as a running back here in Mobile, he still displayed the skills that make him more of an offensive weapon without a truly defined position. Samuels can be used as a move tight end, fullback or halfback but is truly at his best as a mismatch weapon in the pass game. He had 70 career missed tackles forced, 38 on rushing attempts, 32 after the catch.) (1-24-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-2-recap
Plethora of backfield options could appeal to Lions (And if the Lions prefer a versatile option to round out their backfield, North Carolina State’s Jaylen Samuels could fit the bill. A matchup piece in college, he worked as a tight end, blocking back and running back for the Wolfpack. He’s looking to settle in at running back full-time at the next level. At 223 pounds, Samuels also has good size to run between the tackles, combined with the receiving ability that helped him catch nearly 200 passes the past three seasons. He hauled in 75 balls during his senior campaign. “It’s showing a lot of versatility, being able to catch out of the backfield, run good routes as well,” Samuels said. “I just feel like that’s what a lot of teams are looking for, that guy that can do a little bit of everything, and that’s what I feel I bring to the table.”) (1-24-18): www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/24/plethora-backfield-options-could-appeal-lions/109786088/
Six
offensive prospects to pay attention to throughout the week (Jaylen
Samuels, RB, NC State (North No. 21): He’s a bigger back at 5-foot-11,
223 pounds and has skill as a dual-purpose back. He only had 77 carries
as a senior, but gained 403 yards (5.2 ypc) with 12 touchdowns. He also
had 76 receptions for 597 yards and four touchdowns. He’s an intriguing
piece as an H-Back and could be the type of piece the Lions might want
to have as an option.) (1-24-18): www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/33057/why-the-lions-should-watch-rb-kalen-ballage-at-senior-bowl-this-week
Running backs looking to impress at Senior Bowl (NC State’s Jaylen Samuels (5-11, 223) is another back down at the Senior Bowl this week trying to throw his hat into a deep class of running backs for 2018. Samuels played receiver, tight end and running back at NC State. He averaged 5.2 yards on the ground with 12 rushing touchdowns last season, but also caught 75 passes for 593 yards for another four scores. “Most teams that I talked to project me as a running back that can also get split out on third down,” Samuels told detroitlions.com. Samuels says his versatility gives him an advantage over some other backs in this class, given the NFL’s advanced passing attacks and how they’re increasingly using backs in that attack.) (1-24-18): www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Running-backs-looking-to-impress-at-Senior-Bowl/1fa9184b-e074-4c6d-a31a-dbc33f8ec184
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Tues: Samuels looked like a natural receiver out of the backfield Tuesday, which is unsurprising considering his role with the Wolfpack. He showed good quickness and acceleration and a nice burst through the hole.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Twentyman: Senior Bowl participants to watch (Jaylen Samuels, NC State, 5-11, 228: He played five different positions on offense during his time at NC State, making him extremely versatile. Last season, he caught 76 passes for 597 yards and four touchdowns, and also rushed 76 times for 404 yards and 12 touchdowns. He had 19 receiving touchdowns and 28 rushing touchdowns during his college career.) (1-23-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Senior-Bowl-participants-to-watch/50e85598-37f5-4670-af4c-5e76e25bbeb9
Senior Bowl: 10 players who could help the Lions (Jaylen Samuels, RB, NC State: For an incoming coach who values versatility, Samuels is one of the draft’s intriguing Swiss Army knives. The 5-foot-11, 227-pounder worked as a hybrid running back and tight end, while also showcasing an ability to contribute on special teams during his college career. Last season, he tallied 76 receptions, while averaging 5.3 yards on 76 carries.) (1-22-18): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/22/senior-bowl-players-help-lions/109708096/
Biggest storylines of Senior Bowl, from Baker Mayfield to Shaquem Griffin (Bold Predictions - N.C. State’s Jaylen Samuels, a true offensive weapon/gadget player in the Wolfpack offense, will leave Mobile as the clear top senior in the class. Only San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny will challenge him.) (1-22-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/senior-bowl-biggest-storylines-baker-mayfield-josh-allen-shaquem-griffin-dashawn-hand/1sqxterz967xv1g3n6ejh8bol8
Jaylen Samuels breaks NC State's career receptions record (12-29-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/29/jaylen-samuels-breaks-nc-states-career-receptions-record/
PFF Draft Watch: Draft Board Risers - Week 4 (TE Jaylen Samuels: Jaylen Samuels is a Swiss-Army knife player for the North Carolina State offense. The Wolfpack lines Samuels up at tight end, in the slot, in the back field and out wide. Samuels doesn’t exactly fit any traditional offensive skill prospect template as he is only 5-fott-11, 220-pounds and likely runs a 40-yard dash in the 4.6-4.7 range. Samuels next-level position might not be clear-cut but wherever he lines up, he produces and has graded positively both as a ball-carrier and as a pass-catcher. As a runner, Samuels has generated 43 yards after contact, four touchdowns and three missed tackles on 14 carries. In the pass game, Samuels has caught 36-of-41 targets for 279 yards and three touchdowns, including 192 yards after the catch and forcing four missed tackles as a receiver. Samuels isn’t as explosive as a Ty Montgomery but he is equally at home in the backfield and as a receiver just like Montgomery.) (9-26-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-draft-board-risers-week-4
2018 Prospect Preview: Mark Andrews is a lethal slot receiver (Andrews and NC State TE Jaylen Samuels ranked T-No. 1 in touchdowns from the slot among that same group of tight ends with five touchdowns a piece. Samuels was also the only returning Power 5 tight to top Andrews in catch percentage from the slot, as he caught 66.7 percent of his targets and Andrews caught 61 percent.)(9-21-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-mark-andrews-is-a-lethal-slot-receiver
2018 NFL draft: 5 wild-card prospects to watch (Jaylen Samuels - If you’re looking for a Swiss Army knife on offense, Samuels should be at the top of your list. With the frame of a bruising running back and the athleticism of a top pass-catcher, Samuels has lined up virtually everywhere for the Wolfpack, from tailback and fullback to tight end and receiver, both on the outside and in the slot. No matter how he gets the ball, Samuels will be an NFL offensive coordinator’s dream come true, creating matchup problems for opposing defenses from Day 1 at the next level.) (8-16-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/08/16/2018-nfl-draft-5-wild-card-prospects-to-watch/2/
2018 NFL draft: ACC scouting preview (Top Offensive Sleeper - RB Jaylen Samuels: If you’re a sucker for a versatile playmaker who can line up just about anywhere on offense and make opposing defenses miserable, Samuels is your man. A jack-of-all-trades for the Wolfpack, this 5-11, 223-pounder has the frame of a workhorse running back, the athleticism of a wide receiver and the ability to create mismatches like a dangerous pass-catching tight end. Detractors might say he lacks a clear position fit at the next level, but I don’t think it’ll matter where he plays; Samuels will be a valuable asset to any pro offense that likes to get creative.) (7-18-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/07/18/2018-nfl-draft-acc-scouting-preview/3/
RB Darrel Williams:
Scouting Reports:
LSU Bio: http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209392542
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/darrel-williams?id=2559920
Draft Scout: http://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_profile.php?pyid=130881
Articles:
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Duds - Darrel Williams (LSU) ran a 4.72 40-yard-dash and, like Scarbrough, ran too upright in the on-field drills, hurting his acceleration. He did look good catching the ball, which could help his case as a rotational back.) (3-2-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/
Monday Musings -- February 12 (LSU running back Darrel Williams is another who takes a backseat to his more-heralded teammate -- in this case Derrius Guice -- and he’ll be drafted three or four rounds after Guice, yet I have no doubt Williams is going to be a terrific pro ball carrier. He’s a big-bodied back with a tremendous burst and great short-area quickness. Besides grinding on the inside, Williams shows the ability to pick up big yardage from the line of scrimmage. Williams could be the Kareem Hunt of 2018.) (2-12-18): http://draftanalyst.com/monday-musings-february-12
Some film thoughts on 2018 NFL Draft prospects who played in Senior Bowl (LSU running back Darrel Williams won't be a headliner in this class, but he's getting more intriguing. He's 5 feet 10 inches and 229 pounds, a power back with fresh legs after playing behind Derrius Guice. He showed that on a run in which he slipped through two tackle attempts and then carried two more defenders for several more yards. He'll help a team looking to fix the short-yardage game. Any idea who might need that?) (1-29-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/some_2018_nfl_draft_thoughts_a.html
How D.J. Chark, other LSU products, locals fared at Senior Bowl (Running back Darrel Williams rushed five times for 20 yards with his longest rush going for 16 yards. He also caught one pass for 6 yards, again showing the pass-catching ability he flashed during the week of practices.) (1-27-18): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2018/01/lsu_locals_senior_bowl_2018.html
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: A backup at LSU behind high-level prospects, Williams did nothing in Mobile to prove he can be anything more than a backup at the next level. He was effective as a downhill runner, setting up blocks and showing good power in his runs but showed an inconsistent burst through the hole and limited receiving skills, and he doesn't have the speed or quickness to turn the corner or make defenders miss in space.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: It was a down day for Williams, who looked slow through the hole and unnatural as a receiver. He had a bad drop on the first play, dropped a handoff from Kurt Benkert and lacked quickness and suddenness.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl Day 3 South: Marcus Davenport, Host of Small Schoolers Impress (The only running back that really stood out in the South's practice was LSU's Darrel Williams. After playing second or third fiddle in the LSU offense the last three years, Williams has shown that his added versatility has made the difference in his NFL grade. He looked confident as a pass catcher and explosive as a team-drill runner, and leaves Mobile as one of the better running backs here. Conversely, San Diego State's Rashaad Penny struggled greatly as a pass catcher this week.) (1-25-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-3-south-marcus-davenport-host
Running backs looking to impress at Senior Bowl (LSU’s Darrel Williams (5-11, 229) played in the shadows of 1,000-yard rushers Leonard Fournette and Derrius Guice, but is also a power back with receiving skills, who is hoping to prove that he can carry the load if asked to do so. Williams averaged 5.7 yards per carry last season and scored nine touchdowns. He also caught 23 passes for another 331 yards. “My main thing is show that I’m not a backup back,” Williams told detroitlions.com. “I’m a great competitor. I’m ready to work. I’m going to fight for my spot and earn my spot.” Williams says one of the big advantages of splitting the backfield with Fournette and Guice the last couple seasons is that he’s more fresh than some of the other backs in this class, and there’s less wear and tear on his body. Saints running back Alvin Kamara, a candidate for NFL Rookie of the Year this season, had just over 200 carries his last two seasons at Tennessee, which was touted as an advantage when he was entering the league. Williams had less than 200 the last two years at LSU.) (1-24-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Running-backs-looking-to-impress-at-Senior-Bowl/1fa9184b-e074-4c6d-a31a-dbc33f8ec184
2018 Senior Bowl Day 2 South: Kyle Lauletta Steps Up, and the DL Impresses (A former backup at LSU, Darrell Williams has really helped himself this week and had an impressive 2nd day of practice. He started off the day with a couple of impressive inside runs where he displayed balance and strength between the tackles. Known for his power and ability in short yardage situations in college, Williams was impressive in the passing game today. He hauled in a touchdown and displayed the ability to get open in one on ones.) (1-24-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-2-south-kyle-lauletta-steps-u
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Most effective as a downhill runner, Williams is patient setting up blocks and quick through the hole and shows good power. He doesn't lose speed when slightly altering his path but takes some time to get going after cutting laterally and isn't fast to the corner.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Here are 8 NFL Draft prospects for Lions to watch at the Senior Bowl (Darrel Williams, LSU RB: The Lions are going to add a running back this offseason, and based on the numbers, a power back could be the guy. Darrel Williams was not the heralded star at LSU, like Derrius Guice, but he has a useful skill set. At 5 feet 11 inches and 229 pounds, he broke out for 820 yards and nine touchdowns this season while still managing 5.7 yards per carry. He showed some receiving ability as well. The routes and protections he sees this week will help tell how well-rounded he is, but he could be a sleeper option on Day 3.) (1-23-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_some_nfl_draft_prospe.html
Never a starter at LSU, Darrel Williams says he can be an every-down NFL back (1-23-18): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2018/01/darrel_williams_senior_bowl_20.html
Senior Bowl: Offensive prospects who'll have great value later in 2018 NFL Draft (Darrel Williams, FB, LSU: Listed as a fullback, Williams has plenty of traditional running back ability. With Derrius Guice hobbled for portions of 2017, the large ball-carrier pieced together an impressive campaign in Baton Rouge. In his first three seasons at LSU, he totaled 831 yards on the ground. In 2017, he toted the rock 145 times for 820 yards (5.65 yards per carry). Would-be tacklers seemingly bounce off him when he's at top gear. Another plus, he caught 23 passes for 331 yards. Williams is likely to be a late-round pick who can fill an important complementary role as a versatile power back at the next level.) (1-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-offensive-prospects-wholl-have-great-value-later-in-2018-nfl-draft/
LSU football award winners include Darrel Williams, Devin White as team MVPs for 2017 (Darrel Williams and Devin White each received the Charles McClendon Award as the most valuable players on the LSU football team in 2017. Williams, a senior running back, and White, a sophomore linebacker, were both first-time recipients of the award. Williams topped 1,000 yards rushing and receiving, with 776 yards and nine touchdowns rushing and 327 yards receiving.) (12-18-17): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2017/12/lsu_football_awards_2017.html
Could LSU create another surprise element off direct-snap play to Darrel Williams? (11-8-17): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2017/11/lsu_football_darrel_williams_w.html
"Finally healthy" Derrius Guice, sidekick Darrel Williams total 493 yards in Ole Miss win (The Tigers amassed 593 yards of offense in defeating the Rebels, 40-24, Saturday night at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium behind 276 yards on 22 carries by tailback Derrius Guice and another 103 yards on 22 carries by tailback Darrel Williams, who also caught four passes for 105 yards. Williams, a senior from John Ehret High in the New Orleans area, became the first LSU player in history to have 100 yards or more rushing and receiving. Together, Guice and Williams totaled 493 yards - 285 rushing and receiving by Guice and 208 rushing and receiving by Williams. They were reminiscent of the Dalton Hilliard/Garry James tailback duo dubbed, the "Dalton & James Gang" from 1982-85 at LSU. Guice had 268 yards on 18 carries through three quarters and could have easily broken his own school rushing record of 285 yards on 37 carries set in the win at Texas A&M last season, but Williams finished out the game at tailback.) (10-21-17): https://www.theadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/lsu/2017/10/21/herbstreit-picks-ole-miss-but-hey-he-had-miles-going-michigan-weathersby-start/787154001/
LSU Practice Report: Four starters return to LSU practice (RB Darrel Williams missed practice while he nurses an ankle injury he suffered late in the loss to Troy. After the game, Orgeron said he expected Williams to be "fine.") (10-2-17): http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_ec0b62da-a7b7-11e7-863e-ef0925bcd4f0.html
WATCH: LSU's first TD vs. Miss State (10 yd rushing TD by Williams) (9-16-17): https://247sports.com/college/lsu/Article/LSU-RB-Darrel-Williams-TD-Mississippi-State-107523047
Do-over: Jack Gonsoulin (again) wins LSU's field-goal kicking job after competition (Darrel Williams “should be able to play” in the opener, Orgeron said. Williams, the immediate backup to running back Derrius Guice, donned a gold/limited contact jersey in practice, with his knee wrapped in bandage.) (9-14-17): http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_46898150-999f-11e7-8af7-5b83f370f399.html
LSU RB Darrel Williams awaits his time to shine for Tigers (8-10-17): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2017/08/lsu_rb_darrel_williams_awaits.html
Scouting Reports:
NC State Profile: http://gopack.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=4759&path=footbal
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/jaylen-samuels?id=2559930
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=130722&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018jsamuels.php
Articles:
Meet Jaylen Samuels, the Swiss Army knife of the 2018 NFL draft (3-9-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/08/meet-jaylen-samuels-the-swiss-army-knife-of-the-2018-nfl-draft/
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Daily updates from Indy (Jaylen Samuels: We identified Samuels as one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the draft class and he is our No. 9 ranked tight end. Samuels is one of the premier mismatch weapons in the draft and showed why with a 4.54 40-yard dash, demonstrating his long speed and why it’s difficult for linebackers to stay with him in coverage down the field. He weighed in at 225-pounds which has many NFL teams leaning towards playing him more in a running back role but one that should be used heavily in the pass game. Samuels had 42 receptions in the slot last season which ranked No. 2 among tight ends in the draft class and he showed off his natural hands in pass-catching drills. Samuels also had a strong 10-foot-1 broad jump. – @PFF_Jordan) (3-3-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-scouting-combine-live-updates-from-indy
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: QB, WR, and TE groups (Studs - Jaylen Samuels (NC State) is a favorite of mine. He was grouped with the tight ends today, but he is more likely an H-back/running back in the NFL. Samuels checked the measurables for a running back and looked comfortable in the on-field receiving drills with the tight ends.) (3-3-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/03/nfl-combine-studs-and-duds-qb-wr-and-te-groups/
Bold predictions: 2018 NFL Scouting Combine studs and duds (3. All-Star studs, turned Combine duds? There will be plenty of players who fail to build upon their flashy all-star game performances and settle back down on draft boards. Take North Carolina State’s do-everything weapon Jaylen Samuels, for example. The 6-0, 223-pound dual threat was arguably the best running back at the Senior Bowl, but scouts are expecting 40-yard dash times in the mid-4.6s, which might put a Day Three cap on his draft stock.) (2-18-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/18/bold-predictions-2018-nfl-scouting-combine-studs-and-duds/
The most versatile offensive weapons in the 2018 draft (TE/WR/RB Jaylen Samuels: It was difficult to even give Samuels an official position in college with the way NC State used him on offense, and he’ll be even more difficult to slot at the next level. He was a part tight end, part running back, part slot receiver for the Wolfpack, finishing his college career with 1,865 receiving yards and 1,095 rushing yards to go with 47 total touchdowns (19 receiving, 28 rushing). Samuels has the quickness to be handed the ball in a traditional run game or on jet sweeps while lining up all over the field to create mismatches in the passing game. Other than a difference in size, he is reminiscent of Eagles TE Trey Burton, who came out of college as a jack of all trades and has tapped into some of that ability at the next level.) (2-16-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-the-most-versatile-offensive-weapons-in-the-2018-draft
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Samuels isn’t a fullback. But he also isn’t a tight end, which is the position he’s listed at for the NFL Combine and also the position the Wolfpack listed him at. He’s more running back than fullback, but the NFL likely won’t use him as a prototypical RB either. What Samuels is, is an offensive weapon. That term is stupidly cliché to the point of losing its meaning, which is unfortunate, because in this case it truly applies. Samuels can run, he can block, and he can catch—all at a high level. He moves around the formation and plays different positions, including slot receiver. Call him an H-back, call him a TE, call him whatever you want—he’s a guy who will cause headaches on all three downs at the next level. Nearly guaranteed of being underdrafted, and just as nearly guaranteed of getting plucked up by one of the NFL’s more intelligent front offices. The Patriots and Eagles both make a lot of sense.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 NFL Draft: Here's a list of the best players not invited to the combine (Jaylen Smith, WR, Louisville: Smith had drop issues in college. Per Pro Football Focus, he was credited with 13 drops in three seasons and seven in 2017 alone. Then again, at around 6-3 and 215 pounds with above-average downfield speed and a career 16.9 yards-per-catch average, Smith seemed like a prospect worthy of a combine invite.) (2-12-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-draft-heres-a-list-of-the-best-players-not-invited-to-the-combine/
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Analysis: The biggest takeaway from Samuels’ week of practice with his patience as a runner at a position he’s never played on a full-time basis. He sets up blocks nicely and showed the quickness to navigate inside running lanes, following his blocks before showing good burst once holes opened. He looked natural as a receiver, used his size to separate and was effective as an inside runner. The team that drafts him would be wise to utilize his versatility but in the end, he's a running back, and one who made his case to go towards the back of the top 100 picks.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Senior Bowl notebook: Top 15 performers (10. Jaylen Samuels, RB, NC State: A do-everything weapon in college, Samuels lined up strictly at running back during practices and out-performed the other backs on the field. As expected, he did his best work during pass-catching drills as none of the linebackers could stick with his route quickness. Samuels and his versatility has him destined for the second day of the draft.) (1-26-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/01/26/senior-bowl-notebook-top-15-performers/
NFL draft: The most versatile players we saw at the Senior Bowl (Jaylen Samuels, North Carolina State: What position does he play? We’re not sure, but we think that’s a good thing. And after watching him in practice, it’s clear that Samuels needs to be unleashed in some form as a pass catcher. He has extremely quick feet and moved like a receiver or H-back in the receiving drills, to the point where a creative offensive coordinator really can have fun with him. Call him an "offensive weapon," if you will. The 5-11, 223-pound Samuels lined up at running back (where he looked surprisingly sudden) and slot receiver, and we could see him used in an offset or hybrid role (some might call him an “F-back”) in the right scheme. He looked to us like a more gifted Jacob Hester or a more thickly built Bilal Powell. Perhaps Samuels isn’t quite the explosive athlete that smaller tight ends such as Dorin Dickerson, Jordan Reed or Dustin Keller were coming out, but there’s a role for him. Samuels was first-Team All-ACC for a reason. He had a career-high 69 receptions for 551 yards and career-high 383 rushing yards with 15 total touchdowns in 2017. Maybe Josh McDaniels could use someone like that with the Indianapolis Colts, who didn’t get enough from their backs in the passing game last season.) (1-26-18): http://www.profootballweekly.com/2018/01/26/nfl-draft-the-most-versatile-players-we-saw-at-the-senior-bowl/ad96muz/
Senior Bowl notebook: Quarterbacks impressive at North practice (North Carolina State running back Jaylen Samuels was a tough assignment for the North linebackers and safeties during one-on-one drills. Samuels used quick feet and timing to skirt the defender and create separation in coverage, giving the quarterback a clean target. A “Swiss army knife” skill player, Samuels played running back, wide receiver, fullback and tight end in college and is ideally suited for a hybrid role in the NFL where a play-caller utilizes him in different ways. He isn’t as dangerous a ball-carrier as San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny, but Samuels might be higher on several draft boards because of his do-everything versatility.) (1-25-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/members/news/cfb_column.php?story_id=188054
2018 SENIOR BOWL DAY 3 NORTH: JAYLEN SAMUELS, KEMOKO TURAY STAND OUT (NC State's Jaylen Samuels has expectedly been the most impressive, complete running back here (followed closely behind by Kalen Ballage). But Samuels especially got to show off his route separation and overall comfort as a pass catcher. In-season, Samuels was compared (very optimistically) by scouts to Aaron Hernandez, Jordan Reed, and David Johnson. He's not quite any of those playres stylistcally or upside-wise, but the versatility is what stands out. He didn't get a chance to show he's a dominant back at NC State, but he's showing that he's an NFL starter here at the Senior Bowl.) (1-25-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-3-north-jaylen-samuels-kemoko
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Wed: Samuels doesn’t have great speed but is a smooth mover who shows great patience on the inside, rarely running at full speed before he reaches the open field. He follows his blockers and is efficient with his movements and had another good day catching the football.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl Interview: Jaylen Samuels (1-24-18): walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018jaylensamuels.php
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 2 recap (While North Carolina State’s Jaylen Samuels is listed as a running back here in Mobile, he still displayed the skills that make him more of an offensive weapon without a truly defined position. Samuels can be used as a move tight end, fullback or halfback but is truly at his best as a mismatch weapon in the pass game. He had 70 career missed tackles forced, 38 on rushing attempts, 32 after the catch.) (1-24-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-2-recap
Plethora of backfield options could appeal to Lions (And if the Lions prefer a versatile option to round out their backfield, North Carolina State’s Jaylen Samuels could fit the bill. A matchup piece in college, he worked as a tight end, blocking back and running back for the Wolfpack. He’s looking to settle in at running back full-time at the next level. At 223 pounds, Samuels also has good size to run between the tackles, combined with the receiving ability that helped him catch nearly 200 passes the past three seasons. He hauled in 75 balls during his senior campaign. “It’s showing a lot of versatility, being able to catch out of the backfield, run good routes as well,” Samuels said. “I just feel like that’s what a lot of teams are looking for, that guy that can do a little bit of everything, and that’s what I feel I bring to the table.”) (1-24-18): www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/24/plethora-backfield-options-could-appeal-lions/109786088/
Running backs looking to impress at Senior Bowl (NC State’s Jaylen Samuels (5-11, 223) is another back down at the Senior Bowl this week trying to throw his hat into a deep class of running backs for 2018. Samuels played receiver, tight end and running back at NC State. He averaged 5.2 yards on the ground with 12 rushing touchdowns last season, but also caught 75 passes for 593 yards for another four scores. “Most teams that I talked to project me as a running back that can also get split out on third down,” Samuels told detroitlions.com. Samuels says his versatility gives him an advantage over some other backs in this class, given the NFL’s advanced passing attacks and how they’re increasingly using backs in that attack.) (1-24-18): www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Running-backs-looking-to-impress-at-Senior-Bowl/1fa9184b-e074-4c6d-a31a-dbc33f8ec184
Senior Bowl -- North Team Page (Tues: Samuels looked like a natural receiver out of the backfield Tuesday, which is unsurprising considering his role with the Wolfpack. He showed good quickness and acceleration and a nice burst through the hole.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-north-team-page
Twentyman: Senior Bowl participants to watch (Jaylen Samuels, NC State, 5-11, 228: He played five different positions on offense during his time at NC State, making him extremely versatile. Last season, he caught 76 passes for 597 yards and four touchdowns, and also rushed 76 times for 404 yards and 12 touchdowns. He had 19 receiving touchdowns and 28 rushing touchdowns during his college career.) (1-23-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Senior-Bowl-participants-to-watch/50e85598-37f5-4670-af4c-5e76e25bbeb9
Senior Bowl: 10 players who could help the Lions (Jaylen Samuels, RB, NC State: For an incoming coach who values versatility, Samuels is one of the draft’s intriguing Swiss Army knives. The 5-foot-11, 227-pounder worked as a hybrid running back and tight end, while also showcasing an ability to contribute on special teams during his college career. Last season, he tallied 76 receptions, while averaging 5.3 yards on 76 carries.) (1-22-18): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/01/22/senior-bowl-players-help-lions/109708096/
Biggest storylines of Senior Bowl, from Baker Mayfield to Shaquem Griffin (Bold Predictions - N.C. State’s Jaylen Samuels, a true offensive weapon/gadget player in the Wolfpack offense, will leave Mobile as the clear top senior in the class. Only San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny will challenge him.) (1-22-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/senior-bowl-biggest-storylines-baker-mayfield-josh-allen-shaquem-griffin-dashawn-hand/1sqxterz967xv1g3n6ejh8bol8
Jaylen Samuels breaks NC State's career receptions record (12-29-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/29/jaylen-samuels-breaks-nc-states-career-receptions-record/
PFF Draft Watch: Draft Board Risers - Week 4 (TE Jaylen Samuels: Jaylen Samuels is a Swiss-Army knife player for the North Carolina State offense. The Wolfpack lines Samuels up at tight end, in the slot, in the back field and out wide. Samuels doesn’t exactly fit any traditional offensive skill prospect template as he is only 5-fott-11, 220-pounds and likely runs a 40-yard dash in the 4.6-4.7 range. Samuels next-level position might not be clear-cut but wherever he lines up, he produces and has graded positively both as a ball-carrier and as a pass-catcher. As a runner, Samuels has generated 43 yards after contact, four touchdowns and three missed tackles on 14 carries. In the pass game, Samuels has caught 36-of-41 targets for 279 yards and three touchdowns, including 192 yards after the catch and forcing four missed tackles as a receiver. Samuels isn’t as explosive as a Ty Montgomery but he is equally at home in the backfield and as a receiver just like Montgomery.) (9-26-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-draft-board-risers-week-4
2018 Prospect Preview: Mark Andrews is a lethal slot receiver (Andrews and NC State TE Jaylen Samuels ranked T-No. 1 in touchdowns from the slot among that same group of tight ends with five touchdowns a piece. Samuels was also the only returning Power 5 tight to top Andrews in catch percentage from the slot, as he caught 66.7 percent of his targets and Andrews caught 61 percent.)(9-21-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-mark-andrews-is-a-lethal-slot-receiver
2018 NFL draft: 5 wild-card prospects to watch (Jaylen Samuels - If you’re looking for a Swiss Army knife on offense, Samuels should be at the top of your list. With the frame of a bruising running back and the athleticism of a top pass-catcher, Samuels has lined up virtually everywhere for the Wolfpack, from tailback and fullback to tight end and receiver, both on the outside and in the slot. No matter how he gets the ball, Samuels will be an NFL offensive coordinator’s dream come true, creating matchup problems for opposing defenses from Day 1 at the next level.) (8-16-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/08/16/2018-nfl-draft-5-wild-card-prospects-to-watch/2/
2018 NFL draft: ACC scouting preview (Top Offensive Sleeper - RB Jaylen Samuels: If you’re a sucker for a versatile playmaker who can line up just about anywhere on offense and make opposing defenses miserable, Samuels is your man. A jack-of-all-trades for the Wolfpack, this 5-11, 223-pounder has the frame of a workhorse running back, the athleticism of a wide receiver and the ability to create mismatches like a dangerous pass-catching tight end. Detractors might say he lacks a clear position fit at the next level, but I don’t think it’ll matter where he plays; Samuels will be a valuable asset to any pro offense that likes to get creative.) (7-18-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/07/18/2018-nfl-draft-acc-scouting-preview/3/
RB Darrel Williams:
Scouting Reports:
LSU Bio: http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209392542
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/darrel-williams?id=2559920
Draft Scout: http://www.draftscout.com/members/ratings/tsx_profile.php?pyid=130881
Articles:
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Duds - Darrel Williams (LSU) ran a 4.72 40-yard-dash and, like Scarbrough, ran too upright in the on-field drills, hurting his acceleration. He did look good catching the ball, which could help his case as a rotational back.) (3-2-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/
Monday Musings -- February 12 (LSU running back Darrel Williams is another who takes a backseat to his more-heralded teammate -- in this case Derrius Guice -- and he’ll be drafted three or four rounds after Guice, yet I have no doubt Williams is going to be a terrific pro ball carrier. He’s a big-bodied back with a tremendous burst and great short-area quickness. Besides grinding on the inside, Williams shows the ability to pick up big yardage from the line of scrimmage. Williams could be the Kareem Hunt of 2018.) (2-12-18): http://draftanalyst.com/monday-musings-february-12
Some film thoughts on 2018 NFL Draft prospects who played in Senior Bowl (LSU running back Darrel Williams won't be a headliner in this class, but he's getting more intriguing. He's 5 feet 10 inches and 229 pounds, a power back with fresh legs after playing behind Derrius Guice. He showed that on a run in which he slipped through two tackle attempts and then carried two more defenders for several more yards. He'll help a team looking to fix the short-yardage game. Any idea who might need that?) (1-29-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/some_2018_nfl_draft_thoughts_a.html
How D.J. Chark, other LSU products, locals fared at Senior Bowl (Running back Darrel Williams rushed five times for 20 yards with his longest rush going for 16 yards. He also caught one pass for 6 yards, again showing the pass-catching ability he flashed during the week of practices.) (1-27-18): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2018/01/lsu_locals_senior_bowl_2018.html
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Analysis: A backup at LSU behind high-level prospects, Williams did nothing in Mobile to prove he can be anything more than a backup at the next level. He was effective as a downhill runner, setting up blocks and showing good power in his runs but showed an inconsistent burst through the hole and limited receiving skills, and he doesn't have the speed or quickness to turn the corner or make defenders miss in space.) (1-26-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Thurs: It was a down day for Williams, who looked slow through the hole and unnatural as a receiver. He had a bad drop on the first play, dropped a handoff from Kurt Benkert and lacked quickness and suddenness.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018 Senior Bowl Day 3 South: Marcus Davenport, Host of Small Schoolers Impress (The only running back that really stood out in the South's practice was LSU's Darrel Williams. After playing second or third fiddle in the LSU offense the last three years, Williams has shown that his added versatility has made the difference in his NFL grade. He looked confident as a pass catcher and explosive as a team-drill runner, and leaves Mobile as one of the better running backs here. Conversely, San Diego State's Rashaad Penny struggled greatly as a pass catcher this week.) (1-25-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-3-south-marcus-davenport-host
Running backs looking to impress at Senior Bowl (LSU’s Darrel Williams (5-11, 229) played in the shadows of 1,000-yard rushers Leonard Fournette and Derrius Guice, but is also a power back with receiving skills, who is hoping to prove that he can carry the load if asked to do so. Williams averaged 5.7 yards per carry last season and scored nine touchdowns. He also caught 23 passes for another 331 yards. “My main thing is show that I’m not a backup back,” Williams told detroitlions.com. “I’m a great competitor. I’m ready to work. I’m going to fight for my spot and earn my spot.” Williams says one of the big advantages of splitting the backfield with Fournette and Guice the last couple seasons is that he’s more fresh than some of the other backs in this class, and there’s less wear and tear on his body. Saints running back Alvin Kamara, a candidate for NFL Rookie of the Year this season, had just over 200 carries his last two seasons at Tennessee, which was touted as an advantage when he was entering the league. Williams had less than 200 the last two years at LSU.) (1-24-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Running-backs-looking-to-impress-at-Senior-Bowl/1fa9184b-e074-4c6d-a31a-dbc33f8ec184
2018 Senior Bowl Day 2 South: Kyle Lauletta Steps Up, and the DL Impresses (A former backup at LSU, Darrell Williams has really helped himself this week and had an impressive 2nd day of practice. He started off the day with a couple of impressive inside runs where he displayed balance and strength between the tackles. Known for his power and ability in short yardage situations in college, Williams was impressive in the passing game today. He hauled in a touchdown and displayed the ability to get open in one on ones.) (1-24-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-2-south-kyle-lauletta-steps-u
Senior Bowl -- South Team Page (Wed: Most effective as a downhill runner, Williams is patient setting up blocks and quick through the hole and shows good power. He doesn't lose speed when slightly altering his path but takes some time to get going after cutting laterally and isn't fast to the corner.) (1-24-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-south-team-page
2018
Senior Bowl: Wednesday Practice Report: South Team (Aside from Akins'
scores, the South defense came up big on that goal-line period. On a run
from San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny, Akins' Central Florida
teammate linebacker Shaquem Griffin got great penetration into the
backfield to stuff Penny on the play. Benkert then attempted to throw a
flat pass to LSU running back Darrel Williams, but Williams was
immediately stonewalled by South Carolina State linebacker Darius
Leonard, which draw applause from the crowd.) (1-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018practice4.php
TWENTYMAN:
Senior Bowl participants to watch (Darrel Williams, LSU, 6-1, 229:
Williams was a top high school prospect who was overshadowed a bit at
LSU by Leonard Fournette and then Derrius Guice. Williams has terrific
size and athleticsm, which he showed off last season averaging 5.7 yards
per carry for a total of 820 yards and nine touchdowns. He also caught
23 passes for another 331 yards.) (1-23-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Senior-Bowl-participants-to-watch/50e85598-37f5-4670-af4c-5e76e25bbeb9Here are 8 NFL Draft prospects for Lions to watch at the Senior Bowl (Darrel Williams, LSU RB: The Lions are going to add a running back this offseason, and based on the numbers, a power back could be the guy. Darrel Williams was not the heralded star at LSU, like Derrius Guice, but he has a useful skill set. At 5 feet 11 inches and 229 pounds, he broke out for 820 yards and nine touchdowns this season while still managing 5.7 yards per carry. He showed some receiving ability as well. The routes and protections he sees this week will help tell how well-rounded he is, but he could be a sleeper option on Day 3.) (1-23-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_some_nfl_draft_prospe.html
Never a starter at LSU, Darrel Williams says he can be an every-down NFL back (1-23-18): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2018/01/darrel_williams_senior_bowl_20.html
Senior Bowl: Offensive prospects who'll have great value later in 2018 NFL Draft (Darrel Williams, FB, LSU: Listed as a fullback, Williams has plenty of traditional running back ability. With Derrius Guice hobbled for portions of 2017, the large ball-carrier pieced together an impressive campaign in Baton Rouge. In his first three seasons at LSU, he totaled 831 yards on the ground. In 2017, he toted the rock 145 times for 820 yards (5.65 yards per carry). Would-be tacklers seemingly bounce off him when he's at top gear. Another plus, he caught 23 passes for 331 yards. Williams is likely to be a late-round pick who can fill an important complementary role as a versatile power back at the next level.) (1-19-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-offensive-prospects-wholl-have-great-value-later-in-2018-nfl-draft/
LSU football award winners include Darrel Williams, Devin White as team MVPs for 2017 (Darrel Williams and Devin White each received the Charles McClendon Award as the most valuable players on the LSU football team in 2017. Williams, a senior running back, and White, a sophomore linebacker, were both first-time recipients of the award. Williams topped 1,000 yards rushing and receiving, with 776 yards and nine touchdowns rushing and 327 yards receiving.) (12-18-17): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2017/12/lsu_football_awards_2017.html
Could LSU create another surprise element off direct-snap play to Darrel Williams? (11-8-17): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2017/11/lsu_football_darrel_williams_w.html
"Finally healthy" Derrius Guice, sidekick Darrel Williams total 493 yards in Ole Miss win (The Tigers amassed 593 yards of offense in defeating the Rebels, 40-24, Saturday night at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium behind 276 yards on 22 carries by tailback Derrius Guice and another 103 yards on 22 carries by tailback Darrel Williams, who also caught four passes for 105 yards. Williams, a senior from John Ehret High in the New Orleans area, became the first LSU player in history to have 100 yards or more rushing and receiving. Together, Guice and Williams totaled 493 yards - 285 rushing and receiving by Guice and 208 rushing and receiving by Williams. They were reminiscent of the Dalton Hilliard/Garry James tailback duo dubbed, the "Dalton & James Gang" from 1982-85 at LSU. Guice had 268 yards on 18 carries through three quarters and could have easily broken his own school rushing record of 285 yards on 37 carries set in the win at Texas A&M last season, but Williams finished out the game at tailback.) (10-21-17): https://www.theadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/lsu/2017/10/21/herbstreit-picks-ole-miss-but-hey-he-had-miles-going-michigan-weathersby-start/787154001/
LSU Practice Report: Four starters return to LSU practice (RB Darrel Williams missed practice while he nurses an ankle injury he suffered late in the loss to Troy. After the game, Orgeron said he expected Williams to be "fine.") (10-2-17): http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_ec0b62da-a7b7-11e7-863e-ef0925bcd4f0.html
WATCH: LSU's first TD vs. Miss State (10 yd rushing TD by Williams) (9-16-17): https://247sports.com/college/lsu/Article/LSU-RB-Darrel-Williams-TD-Mississippi-State-107523047
Do-over: Jack Gonsoulin (again) wins LSU's field-goal kicking job after competition (Darrel Williams “should be able to play” in the opener, Orgeron said. Williams, the immediate backup to running back Derrius Guice, donned a gold/limited contact jersey in practice, with his knee wrapped in bandage.) (9-14-17): http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_46898150-999f-11e7-8af7-5b83f370f399.html
LSU RB Darrel Williams awaits his time to shine for Tigers (8-10-17): http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2017/08/lsu_rb_darrel_williams_awaits.html
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