Here are fumble rates for NFL Draft running back prospects: http://nfl.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/11/here-are-fumble-rates-for-nfl-draft-running-back-prospects/
RB Kerryon Johnson:
Scouting Reports:
Auburn Bio: http://www.auburntigers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/kerryon_johnson_973962.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/kerryon-johnson?id=2560052
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=1002510&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Draft Wire: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/26/kerryon-johnson-nfl-draft-profile/
Kerryon Johnson NFL draft profile: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/26/kerryon-johnson-nfl-draft-profile/
Articles:
Saquon Barkley blows apart NFL combine; Derrius Guice shines too (Other running backs who had good days include Auburn's Kerryon Johnson and Alabama's Bo Scarborough, both of whom jumped 40 inches in the vertical. That was second behind Barkley. Johnson is a potential second-round pick, while Scarborough is ticketed for the middle rounds.) (3-2-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/03/saquon_barkley_among_biggest_w.html
NFL combine: RBs Saquon Barkley, Derrius Guice impress on Friday (Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson, a potential second-round choice, and Alabama's Bo Scarborough, both posted 40-inch verticals, tied for second behind Barkley — just four running backs have topped 40 inches in the past three years, including Ameer Abdullah and Zach Zenner.) (3-2-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/03/02/detroit-lions-nfl-combine-derrius-guice-ronald-jones/391057002/
NFL Combine Studs and Duds: Running backs (Mixed Results - Kerryon Johnson (Auburn) had average testing numbers, and not running a 40-yard dash left me puzzled. While their on-field drills went well, both left me wanting more from players expected to perform like Alvin Kamara.) (3-2-18): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2018/03/02/nfl-combine-studs-duds-running-backs/
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
Thursday's winners, losers at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine (Winner - While some of his running back counterparts dominated the bench press, Johnson proved brute strength just isn’t his strong suit with the numbers he put up Thursday. A more physical back than his lean frame might suggest, Johnson could struggle to maintain that style of play at the next level, even after playing in a tough conference like the SEC. Hopefully, he’s able to bounce back with a strong performance the rest of the week instead of falling behind in a deep class at his position.) (3-1-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/01/thursdays-winners-losers-at-the-2018-nfl-scouting-combine/3/
NFL Combine preview: Key medical evaluations (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn: One of the toughest backs I’ve ever evaluated, Johnson competes with a high pain tolerance, but his list of career injuries is extensive, dating back to high school.) (2-21-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/21/nfl-combine-preview-key-medical-evaluations/
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (I like Kerryon Johnson more than most. During the season, I referred to him as a “souped-up," rich man’s version of Wayne Gallman. Since then, his style has been compared to Le'Veon Bell's by NFL Media's Daniel Jeremiah. Thinking of Johnson as existing somewhere on the line of continuum between Gallman and Bell is instructive. What jumped out when watching Johnson at Auburn was his Zen master-level patience. When he gets the ball, he doesn’t blindly charge ahead. He’s like you when you approach the registers at Target on Christmas Eve, calmly surveying what will be your quickest option before choosing a line. Johnson is very quick, and he trusts his eyes, a damn effective combination. He’s also got a little power to him, and Johnson is a plus in the passing game. And you have to love how Johnson made his star turn in 2017 when Kam Pettway disappeared and he became the undisputed RB1 bellcow.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Kerryon Johnson - Best trait: Size and speed combo. He combines physicality with a nice burst, which means he can handle inside and outside runs equally well, which is a nice trait to have. Concern: Some of the concerns addressed by analysts when it comes to Johnson are more on his upright running style. Will it lead to some durability issues? Skinny: He carried the load for Auburn as a junior this year (1,391 yards and 18 TDs on 285 carries), and was particularly impressive in Auburn's upset win over Alabama and the Tide's terrific defense. Johnson is a three-down back with a lot of versatility to his game, which some creative NFL offenses will love.) (2-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675
What Mel Kiper Jr. said about Auburn's Braden Smith, Kerryon Johnson, Jeff Holland, Daniel Carlson (Kiper said he is "not as high on Kerryon Johnson" as others, but did not give a round grade to the SEC's Offensive Player of the Year. Other analysts have Johnson, who had 1,391 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, 24 receptions for 194 yards and two scores and a passing touchdown last season, going anywhere from the first to the fourth round. Kiper's ESPN colleague Todd McShay ranked Johnson, also training at EXOS, as the No. 23 overall prospect, but not in the first round.) (1-18-18): http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2018/01/mel_kiper_jr_braden_smith.html
Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson to apply to enter 2018 draft (Johnson played a key role in spearheading Auburn's push back into national prominence and a Peach Bowl berth, rushing for a conference-best 1,320 yards and 17 touchdowns in helping the Tigers secure the SEC West division title. In addition to the offensive player of the year honor, Johnson also was an All-SEC First Team selection. In his final collegiate game, the versatile, speedy running back ran for 71 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries in a loss to UCF in the Peach Bowl on New Year's Day. There were questions whether he would play after suffering rib and shoulder injuries late in the season.) (1-2-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000902169/article/auburn-rb-kerryon-johnson-to-apply-to-enter-2018-draft
Three takeaways from UCF's Peach Bowl win over Auburn (While Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson had 71 rushing yards and a touchdown, he never had that big play and was limited to 3.2 yards per carry. Johnson, who ran for 204 yards against Ole Miss earlier this season and had 100-yard games against Georgia, Alabama and LSU, couldn't find a rhythm against the speedy Knights defense.) (1-1-18): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/ncaa-football/news/georgia-alabama-cfbplayoff-national-championship-three-reasons-bulldogs/1sr7s8pbd4xde119yasvm2nv44
Scouting the Peach Bowl: UCF vs. Auburn (While the conversation starts with Saquon Barkley when talking about underclassmen running backs, Kerryon Johnson has probably improved his draft stock more than any other ball carrier this season. A part-time starter last year and mid-round choice before the season started, Johnson proved himself to be a feature runner in 2017, carrying the Auburn offense on his shoulders at times. He’s a big back that pounds opponents on the inside while showing solid short-area quickness. Johnson will enter the draft after the Peach Bowl and projects as a potential late first-round pick.) (12-31-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-peach-bowl-ucf-vs-auburn
Tim Tebow: Kerryon Johnson 'should have been higher' in Heisman voting (12-31-17): http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2017/12/tebow_kerryon_johnson_heisman.html
The Rundown on Rushers (Kerryon Johnson, Auburn: Johnson has battled injuries this fall, but when healthy, he looks just like Le'Veon Bell. I love his patience, vision and balance.) (12-15-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000893205/article/browns-could-be-juggernaut-5-bowls-that-will-shape-nfl-draft
Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson's status for Peach Bowl undetermined (The star running back, who was held to a season-low 44 rushing yards on 13 carries while playing through injuries to his right shoulder and ribs in the SEC Championship Game, is still recovering from those injuries.) (12-13-17): http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2017/12/auburn_running_back_kerryon_jo_9.html
Post Season Risers/Sliders Final - Offense (Riser - Kerryon Johnson/Auburn: Scouts who graded juniors before the season stamped Johnson as a free-agent prospect while his teammate Kamryn Pettway was given a mid-round grade. We also underrated the talented ball carrier, stamping him with a fifth-round grade. Johnson proved to be a dominant one-man show and carried the Tigers offense. Auburn lost three games this year, and during two of those losses Johnson didn’t play or was severely hampered by a shoulder injury. He possesses the tools to be a feature runner at the next level and will be drafted accordingly -- which means late-first or early-second round.) (12-11-17): http://draftanalyst.com/post-season-riserssliders-final-offense
Sources Tell Us (The scoop: "When I watched Auburn and Alabama, that Auburn running back stood out. He's kind of upright as a runner but, man, was he physical against that front." -- NFL executive on Kerryon Johnson. The skinny: Johnson's value to the Auburn offense was on full display with not just what he did against Alabama, but also what he was unable to do against Georgia thanks to a lingering shoulder injury from the Alabama win. Johnson is a tall, angular runner who is more of a banger than a slasher, but he has the short-area foot quickness to elude tacklers and create for himself. While Penn State's Saquon Barkley and LSU's Derrius Guice are the RBs who receive the most buzz in scouting circles, Johnson might be third on the list.) (12-7-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000889122/article/sources-tell-us-bradley-chubb-makes-case-to-be-first-de-drafted
Prospect matchups in the SEC Title Game (There are a variety of matchups in this game but, far and away, the ability of Georgia’s talented linebackers to stop a banged-up Kerryon Johnson tops the list. Johnson has been dominant for the Tigers this season, elevating his game as well as his draft grade. He’s presently ranked as the third-rated prospect on our running back board and if all goes well in the lead up to the draft, Johnson could sneak into the first round. The big ball carrier suffered a shoulder injury during last week’s victory over Alabama which will limit him today -- and that’s a shame.) (12-2-17): http://draftanalyst.com/prospect-matchups-sec-title-game
What's wrong with Kerryon Johnson’s shoulder? Here are a few possibilities (11-30-17): http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/auburn/2017/11/30/whats-wrong-kerryon-johnsons-shoulder-here-few-possibilities/910748001/
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Week 13 (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn: Johnson has carried Auburn to wins over Alabama and Georgia to put his draft stock on the map late in the 2017 season. Versus the Crimson Tide defense loaded with NFL talent, Johnson showed real quickness with good cutting ability, vision, and decisive downhill running. He also played banged up, illustrating his toughness to withstand a heavy work load and some hard hits. Johnson totaled 104 yards on 30 carries and a touchdown against Alabama. This season, he has been the workhorse for the Tigers and the team engine for their second half surge. Johnson has second-day potential if he enters the 2018 NFL Draft.) (11-28-17): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock_13.php
Stock Report: USF’s Quinton Flowers has NFL skills (Averaging almost 30 offensive touches per game since becoming the featured back in September, Auburn junior RB Kerryon Johnson (5-11, 212, 4.45, #21) has proven to be a productive workhorse and the MVP of the SEC West champs. He became just the 13th player to rush for 100-plus yards against Alabama during Nick Saban’s tenure as head coach, but the punishment of the position caught up with him in the fourth quarter when he exited with a right shoulder injury on his 30th carry of the game. He is a proven tough guy, but his status for the SEC Championship Game is very much up in the air.) (11-27-17): http://tsxfiles.com/blog/2017/11/27/stock-report-usfs-quinton-flowers-has-nfl-skills/
Kerryon Johnson’s only goal: 'To get back out there' after shoulder injury (11-27-17): http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/story/sports/college/auburn/2017/11/27/kerryon-johnsons-only-goal-to-get-back-out-there-after-shoulder-injury/899906001/
Alabama at Auburn score, highlights: No. 6 Tigers beat No. 1 Tide, will play for SEC title (Johnson went out in the fourth quarter after aggravating a shoulder injury that he sustained one play before his third quarter touchdown run.) (11-26-17): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/alabama-at-auburn-score-highlights-no-6-tigers-beat-no-1-tide-will-play-for-sec-title/
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
Scouting Iron Bowl: Shades of Le'Veon Bell in Kerryon Johnson (1. I'll be sticking with my Le'Veon Bell comp for Kerryon Johnson after watching the Auburn RB on Saturday. After studying Johnson last week, I came away thinking the two backs had similar running styles, and Johnson validated that comp on Saturday. He showed he's a complete back against Alabama. He did get beat on one occasion in pass protection, but there were several other times when he put himself right in the middle of the pass rush and held up well. He also had some impressive runs where he was able to pick up at least a few yards when there were no holes open for him. Johnson carries a heavy workload (30 carries for 104 yards and 3 catches for 21 yards vs. Alabama) and had to leave the game late with a shoulder injury. Hopefully he's OK and will be ready to go against Georgia next week. I think he's one of the four best running backs in college football with Penn State's Saquon Barkley, LSU's Derrius Guice, and USC's Ronald Jones. Those are the best RBs I've seen this fall.(11-25-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000882489/article/scouting-iron-bowl-shades-of-leveon-bell-in-kerryon-johnson
How Kerryon Johnson became Auburn's touchdown machine (11-22-17): http://www.espn.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/130808/how-kerryon-johnson-became-auburns-touchdown-machine
How Kerryon Johnson learned to develop patience as a running back (11-22-17): http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2017/11/kerryon_johnson_patience.html
MTS Notes: Biggest NFL draft risers; Scouting Lamar Jackson ( Based on a combination of my own evaluation of these players along with what I hear from scouting sources, I believe these 5 players have helped themselves as much as any in the country in 2017 - 4. Auburn RB Kerryon Johnson: Auburn's star rusher has quickly emerged as one of the most impressive backs in the country. He has exploded down the stretch for the Tigers and a big game against Alabama on Saturday would look great on his resume. He's generating a lot of buzz in scouting circles. Player to watch in the Iron Bowl - The Iron Bowl is clearly the game of the week in college football. Alabama and Auburn are both ranked in the top 6 in the College Football Playoff rankings and a berth in the SEC Championship Game is on the line. As is the case every year, Alabama is loaded with NFL talent. However, Auburn has one of the best rosters in the country as well. After studying Auburn's offense this week, one player jumped off the screen: RB Kerryon Johnson. Johnson is listed at 6-foot and 212 pounds, and as I mentioned above, he's one of this season's biggest risers. I came away very impressed with his combination of vision, lateral quickness and burst after I watched his tape. He has a running style that's reminiscent of Le'Veon Bell. He's patient and incorporates a slight skip before finding a crease and exploding through the line of scrimmage. He also shows the ability to drop his shoulder and power through contact. He's been reliable as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, including on an impressive one-handed snag against Georgia. I was pleasantly surprised at how well he held up in pass protection. He has displayed awareness to identify blitzing linebackers and he does a nice job staying square and settling down vs. power rushers. Johnson is one of the most complete backs in the country and he could be set up for a big day against an Alabama defense that's been decimated by injuries. -- Daniel Jeremiah) (11-22-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000881193/article/mts-notes-biggest-nfl-draft-risers-scouting-lamar-jackson
Stock Report: Auburn's Johnson catching eye of Heisman voters, NFL scouts (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn, JR. (5-11, 212, 4.45, #21): There is a list of reasons why Auburn knocked off No. 1 ranked Georgia, but Johnson belongs at the top of the list. The junior posted 233 yards of total offense (167 yards rushing, 66 yards receiving) and became the first player this season to rush for over 100 yards against Georgia's defense. Johnson, who leads the SEC in rushing yards (1,035) and rushing touchdowns (15), is a slippery runner due to his lateral movement skills and quick decision-making skills, making it a chore on defenders to square him up and finish him to the ground. He is high-cut and long-legged for the position, but those strides allow him to accelerate in a hurry, reaching the second level before defenders can react. Johnson has seen his workload increase since Kamryn Pettway's injury and he has responded well, averaging 30.6 offensive touches in the past five games without any signs of slowing down. Johnson might not be a NFL Combine marvel, but his running back-specific traits are why he has been so productive, including his patience to allow Auburn's dominant offensive line to do its job.) (11-13-17): http://tsxfiles.com/blog/2017/11/13/stock-report-auburns-johnson-catching-eye-of-heisman-voters-nfl-scouts/
Georgia at Auburn score, highlights: No. 10 Tigers put the hurt on No. 1 Bulldogs (Tiger running back Kerryon Johnson was a monster, rushing for 167 yards on 32 carries and catching two passes for 66 yards and a touchdown. 4. Kerryon Johnson needs to be in the Heisman conversation: Johnson missed two games in September but has been the driving force behind Auburn's newfound place in the national spotlight. He's at 1,035 yards for the year with 15 rushing touchdowns -- two as a receiver -- and he's found his stride as an every-down back who always seems to fall forward despite a reputation of being more of a slasher early in his Auburn career. He's on a similar pat to former Tiger running back Tre Mason, who was a Heisman finalist during that 2013 season. He came on strong, led Auburn to an unlikely BCS National Championship Game berth and finished sixth. Johnson will need some help to win -- most notably, Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield stumbling in a big spot -- but this kind of performance on a big stage should earn Johnson serious consideration and a trip to New York during the second weekend of December.) (11-12-17): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/georgia-at-auburn-score-highlights-no-10-tigers-put-the-hurt-on-no-1-bulldogs/
2018 NFL Draft watch: Marquee matchups help sort out top prospects (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — Not only did the 6-foot, 212-pound junior run for 167 yards on 32 carries, he caught two passes for 66 yards and a touchdown in Auburn's 40-17 rout of No. 1 Georgia. Johnson now has over 1,000 rushing yards on the season and did a lot Saturday to boost his draft stock.) (11-12-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-georgia-auburn-wisconsin-alabama-sooners-baker-mayfield/4m6o4ag7agcu154a1o4xnphzs
Week 11 Prospect Matchups (Week 6 riser Kerryon Johnson is in the midst of a dominant season at Auburn. The junior is a big back with an explosive burst as well as the strength to barrel over defenders and pick up a lot of yardage off initial contact. Johnson also displays terrific short-area quickness, and while he's best running downhill, he can bounce around piles or defenders and find the clearing in the defense. In seven games this season, he’s amassed 868 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns. Johnson will have his hands full Saturday when he faces the top linebacker unit in college football.) (11-10-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-11-prospect-matchups
2018 NFL Draft watch: Baker Mayfield, Mason Rudolph add bedlam to QB rankings (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — Johnson, a junior, got back on track in a 42-27 win over Texas A&M by rushing for 145 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 29 yards and another score through the air. Johnson amassed just 78 total yards last week against Arkansas, but he had previously eclipsed 100 yards in three straight games, including a 204-yard, three-touchdown outburst against Ole Miss Oct. 7. Johnson is a big powerful back that can be a workhorse at the next level, but he is also a receiving threat out of the backfield.) (11-4-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-baker-mayfield-mason-rudolph-rankings-bedlam/1nqmgy8t220dx151uu2tz8fxrn
2018 NFL draft watch: LSU's D.J. Chark heads list of sleepers climbing the draft board (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — The 6-0, 212-pound junior has shown flashes of brilliance this season, and looked great again Saturday against LSU (31 carries, 156 yards and a TD). His receiving skills could make him most valuable in a spread offense or as a third-down back.) (10-15-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-ncaa-fbs-stars-highlights-sleepers-dj-chark/10ptpc793lxanzqzx51ch0t1u
Week 6 Risers and Sliders (Kerryon Johnson/RB/Auburn: We stamped Johnson as a potential fifth-round pick during our Auburn prospect preview, but the junior has definitely improved his draft grade since then. Against Mississippi, he posted 204 yards rushing and three touchdowns on 28 carries (7.3 yard average), and Johnson has rushed for more than 100 yards in three of the four games he’s suited up for this season. He’s an explosive back with nice size as well as an excellent burst, which helps him pick up big chunks of yardage from the line of scrimmage.) (10-9-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-6-risers-sliders
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Saquon Barkley continues to showcase his skills (Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn — Johnson, a 6-foot, 212-pound junior tallied 116 rushing yards on 23 carries and scored three times as the 13th-ranked Tigers rolled to a 49-10 win over No. 24 Mississippi State. Johnson appears to be back on track following a hamstring injury in Week 1, when he ran for 136 yards against Georgia Southern.) (10-1-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-saquon-barkley-nick-chubb-jordan-chunn-troy/1k1zpddd3xptb1kdw4vx901pf2
Scouting Reports:
USC Profile: http://usctrojans.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=942
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/ronald-jones?id=2560106
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=1002546&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/12/28/ronald-jones-ii-nfl-draft-profile/
Articles:
2018 NFL Draft Stock - Pro Days IV (Draft Stock Down - Ronald Jones: There have been some reports that Jones attitude has turned off a few teams in recent weeks. Having met Jones in February, I'm surprised to hear that and wonder if it is truly accurate. We are into the "blowing smoke" time of year, and perhaps that message is being put out there to try to help Jones fall to a team that likes him. Also, there have been players in the past who did better in followup interviews and were still drafted by teams after a rough start. The 2018 NFL Draft is very deep at the running back position, so Jones doesn't have a lot of room for error. If the reports are true that his attitude has hurt him with some teams, his stock could be declining.) (4-3-18): http://walterfootball.com/draft2018stock.php
Five Lions targets who lost stock at the NFL Scouting Combine (Ronald Jones II, RB, USC: Again, injuries are a killer at events like these, not for the lingering effects so much as the evaluation everyone loses. Jones came in as part of that loaded running back class, on the upper-crust after back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons but needing to show some more of what he could do as a pass catcher. But he pulled up short in the 40 with a tweaked hamstring, which kept him out of all but the vertical jump. He doesn't necessarily need the timing as much as the field drills, where he could run routes and showcase the hands that just weren't used a lot in USC's offense. He'll hope to heal up the hamstring in order to compete in USC's Pro Day on March 21, but for now, he's sliding by default of other members of a very strong running back class surging to the top. And at 5 feet 11 inches and 200 pounds, he doesn't check off new boxes for the Lions backfield. He might just not be a great fit for what they're looking to add in his draft range of the first or second rounds.) (3-8-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/03/five_lions_targets_who_lost_st.html
10 players who just missed the latest mock draft (Ronald Jones: One of the better pure runners in the draft, Jones was outstanding in 2017 on his way to the top PFF grade by a running back at 92.4. It’s all about pass-game value for Jones, who has yet to show the receiving ability as some of the other top backs in the draft class. It’s difficult to slot running backs in the first round as it is, but receiving questions further elevate that difficulty.) (3-7-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-10-players-who-just-missed-the-latest-mock-draft
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 (Losers - Ronald Jones, RB, USC: He joined his ex-teammate Darnold by sitting out position drills after tweaking an ailing hamstring during his 40-yard dash. The hiccup shouldn't prove too detrimental to Jones' standing, but it was nevertheless a disappointment.) (3-6-18): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2018/03/05/nfl-combine-winners-losers-draft-saquon-barkley-josh-allen/396404002/
Ronald Jones' hamstring injury makes Lions' evaluation more difficult (3-3-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/03/ronald_jones_hamstring_injury.html
Friday's winners, losers at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine (Loser - Ronald Jones: Injuries are easily one of the worst parts of the combine, and this explosive playmaker was the latest top prospect to fall victim to the bug. Jones aggravated a hamstring injury during his first attempt at the 40-yard dash. An undersized but dangerous back who has been compared to Jamaal Charles, Jones was considered by many as a fringe first-rounder who could have solidified that status with a strong workout Friday. Instead, questions will remain while get tries to get healthy in time for the Trojans’ pro day.) (3-3-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/03/fridays-winners-losers-at-the-2018-nfl-scouting-combine/4/
2018 NFL Combine Stock Report - Running Backs (Ronald Jones - Down: Ronald Jones pulled up with a hamstring injury midway through his first 40 run. He'll have to redeem himself at his pro day, but it's a shame that he had a lost opportunity in Indianapolis.) (3-2-18): http://walterfootball.com/combine2018stockRB.php
2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Recap of OL and RB (Ronald Jones pulled up lame (hamstring) in his first and only 40-yard dash attempt and did not continue for the rest of the day. He still managed to run a 4.66.) (3-2-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-nfl-scouting-combine-recap-of-ol-and-rb
NFL combine winners/losers: Saquon Barkley puts on a show (Losers - Ronald Jones II, RB, USC: The USC standout missed out on a chance to show scouts that he deserves to be the second running back taken in the draft. Jones tweaked a hamstring during his first 40-yard dash that forced him to the sidelines for the rest of the day. With scouts questioning his hands and route-running skills due to his low catch numbers as a collegian, Jones needed to go through the pass-catching portion of the workout to establish himself as the top RB prospect not named Saquon Barkley. Really unfortunate circumstance here.) (3-2-18): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000918873/article/nfl-combine-winnerslosers-saquon-barkley-puts-on-a-show
NFL combine: RBs Saquon Barkley, Derrius Guice impress on Friday (USC running back Ronald Jones, another potential Lions' target in Round 1, pulled up with a hamstring injury on his only 40-yard dash attempt.) (3-2-18): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/03/02/detroit-lions-nfl-combine-derrius-guice-ronald-jones/391057002/
Ronald Jones II embraces Jamaal Charles comparison (3-1-18): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/03/01/nfl-draft-combine-ronald-jones-jamaal-charles/
RB Ronald Jones Combine Transcript (3-1-18): http://nfldraftscout.com/2018/03/01/nfl-combine-transcript-usc-rb-ronald-jones/
6 Prospects With Nothing To Prove At the 2018 NFL Combine (Ronald Jones: This Jamaal Charles reincarnate will run a great 40-yard dash time. But he’ll stay ranked behind both Barkley and LSU’s Derrius Guice — and maybe a few others. He’ll go between Nos. 30 and 45 overall. His 40-yard dash time will be important, as speed is Jones’ trademark asset, which NFL teams will covet. But he doesn’t have to set a combine record. In his final college season, Jones ran for 1,550 yards with 19 touchdowns on 5.9 yards per carry. His game tape in the Pac 12 has proved he’s an explosive commodity, which an NFL team should buy with a high second round pick. His draft stock won’t be volatile.) (3-1-18): http://thebiglead.com/2018/03/01/6-prospects-with-nothing-to-prove-at-the-2018-nfl-combine/
TWENTYMAN: Comparing the top six running back prospects (Ronald Jones - School: USC (junior); Ht/Wt: 5-11, 205; Draft projection: Rounds 1-2; Total rushing yards: 1,550; Rushing Yds per game: 119.2; Yds per attempt: 5.9; 20-plus yrd runs: 15; TDs: 19; Twentyman: Jones wore No. 25 at USC for his boyhood idol, former Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles. Jones certainly has a similar game. He’s fast and shifty, and always looking to make the big play. Quotable: “I love his game,” Jones said of Charles. “I like David Johnson’s style and Le’Veon Bell. I feel like I can do it all and I have the capabilities. When I get to a team, I’ll put in the work. “(I’m a) quick, north and south runner. Decisive. Three-down back. A lot of speed. A lot of jukes.”) (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 - Ronald Jones II, USC. Headed into the combine, some were concerned about Jones's size. He hit home runs for USC but also banged well between the tackles. Teams want to see feature backs hit that 200-pound threshold. If Jones runs sub 4.50 at 205 pounds, he could sneak into the first round.) (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 (With his lean frame, USC’s Ronald Jones will never be a 220-pound back, but coming in at 205 pounds is a good weight for him. His size and skill-set is comparable to Jamaal Charles, who was only 200 pounds at the 2008 Scouting Combine. Slightly more concerning for Jones was his smaller hands (8 3/4-inches); with only 32 career catches in his three seasons at USC, his pass-catching skills are an area he needs to develop.) (2-28-18): http://nfl.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/28/running-back-measurements-barkley-impresses-at-combine/
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 (USC RB Ronald Jones -- One of our favorite second-tier prospects in the draft, if Jones shows up a few pounds bulkier than his six-foot, 200-pound listing, it would serve him well. His speed pops off the tape, but we were also impressed with his between-the-tackles toughness when it was called upon. We’re not particularly concerned that he’s too light -- it’s not how he played -- but if it’s a worry for any NFL outfit, he can squash it outright this week. We’re viewing him as a Day 1 prospect all day long regardless.) (2-27-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/78152/321/combine-question-corner
Why Derrius Guice, Josh Adams, Sony Michel should get good looks from Lions at combine (Ronald Jones, RB, USC: He’s elusive and ran for 100 yards or more in nine games last season. He had 19 touchdowns last year and 12 scores in 2016. He doesn’t garner the attention of Guice or Saquon Barkley, but that could change if things go well in Indianapolis. The 20-year-old is a likely every-down back and has shown the ability to get downfield fast while also having strong lateral movement.) (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
Ten running backs worth pursuing in free agency/2018 NFL Draft (3. Ronald Jones II, draft prospect: Jones has the ability to stop his feet completely and still accelerate through contact by running with a low center of gravity. The USC product has short-area quickness, good knee lift that helps with breaking arm tackles and the ability to move the pile. The 6-foot, 200-pound back has a great feel for cutback runs in zone schemes and his narrow hips cause defenders to miss tackles at times. That said, his ball security needs work, as he only carries the rock in his right hand, and the ball separates from his body on lateral cuts. He could get into some trouble there. And with only 32 career receptions in college, he might not offer a ton of help in the pass game.) (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 (Ronald Jones, USC: Did not start a game as a freshman. Got just 153 carries that year. And he still managed to break the USC freshman rushing record. It was a portent of things to come, with Jones cracking 1,000 yards rushing each of the last two seasons, averaging 6.3 yards from scrimmage overall and scoring 42 touchdowns in his three years on campus. He's an explosive athlete, and should be one of the brightest stars at the combine. But is he really big enough to be a No. 1 back in the NFL? At 200 pounds, that is a question worth asking. Especially in Detroit, because the Lions don't need yet another complement back.) (2-21-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/02/nfl_combine_preview_running_ba.html
2018 NFL Combine: Prospects with the most on the line in Indianapolis (Ronald Jones II, RB, USC: Jones flies on film. Once he gets to the second level, he's a serious threat to go the distance. Track speed. And he has the vision and subtle agility to squeeze through small spaces between the tackles. At this point, he's widely considered the No. 3 running back behind Saquon Barkley and Derrius Guice. But for as impressive as he is on inside runs, his specialty is his home-run hitting speed. If he clocks a 40-yard dash time faster than Guice, he very well could be the second running back off the board, and get picked in the first round. Last year, eight running backs ran a sub-4.50. It's a distinct possibility Jones hits that 4.49 mark. It's important to remember though... Jones will likely weigh-in 10-15 pounds lighter than Guice and potentially 20 pounds lighter than Barkley.) (2-21-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2018-nfl-combine-prospects-with-the-most-on-the-line-in-indianapolis/
NFL Combine preview: Prospects who need to measure up (Ronald Jones, RB, USC: With his lean-framed body type, Jones doesn’t exactly fit the ideal measureables for the running back position — what is his exact weight?) (2-21-18): http://draftscout.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/21/nfl-combine-preview-prospects-who-need-to-measure-up/
Detroit Lions 2018 NFL draft fits (1.0) (RB Ronald Jones, USC: See Guice. Jones is an incredible talent with game-breaking ability, and he'll probably earn a first-round grade from a lot of teams. But the Lions must weigh what kind of pass rusher they can get on Day 2 if they take a RB here.) (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.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 Combine Preview: Running back (Ronald Jones - Best trait: A former 100-meter champion, Jones has speed to burn. He’s one of the more elusive backs in the class that can cut on a dime and get to full speed in just a couple steps. Concern: He has a rather lean frame, which obviously raises some concerns about his durability and how many carries he can handle over the course of a 16-game season. Skinny: Jones toted the rock 261 times for USC this past season with 1,550 yards and 19 touchdowns. He’s a slasher and big-play threat more than he is a grind it out type.) (2-14-18): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfl-scouting-combine/article-1/2018-Combine-Preview-Running-back/e9878a95-2c18-4cc5-a529-e02e3693e675
Trojans to lose some key players, others will stay (Running back Ronald Jones II was the team’s most consistent playmaker this season, tallying 1,550 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2017. The junior, who leaves as USC’s fifth all-time leading rusher, is projected to be drafted in the second or third round. However, his explosiveness and physicality could potentially convince a team to take him on the first day.) (1-11-18): https://dailytrojan.com/2018/01/11/trojans-lose-key-players-others-will-stay/
Season in review: USC ends with first conference championship in nearly a decade, falls short of playoff expectations (It often looked like “Tailback U,” as Ronald Jones put together the best season for a USC running back in more than a decade. Jones rushed for 1,550 yards, the most since Reggie Bush zoomed for 1,740 during his then-Heisman Trophy-winning season in 2005. The junior was also the Trojans’ first running back since LenDale White in 2005 and 2004 to rush for 1,000 in consecutive games. One of Jones’ best efforts came in the Pac-12 Conference title game win over Stanford when he ran a career-high 30 times for 140 yards and a pair of touchdowns, including an 8-yard run into the end zone with 4:22 left that helped seal the triumph.) (1-10-18): https://www.ocregister.com/2018/01/10/season-in-review-usc-ends-with-first-conference-championship-in-nearly-a-decade-falls-short-of-playoff-expectations/
NFL Draft 2018 could offer hope for Lions in form of these 10 running backs (Ronald Jones, USC: This is another really deep running back class with potential feature options available beyond the first round. Ronald Jones is a player who could be on that edge, potentially, after he took on a workman's role this year alongside Sam Darnold at USC. Jones ran for 1,550 yards and 19 touchdowns on 5.9 yards per carry for his second straight 1,000-yard season. At a listed 6 feet 1 inch and 195 pounds, Jones is a track runner -- literally -- and so he's a player who relies on a semblance of blocking or limited boxes to hit the second level and go. He's very good at that and has room to grow in the passing game as well. Like all speed backs, the adjustment to wider hash marks will be a challenge for him, but he's been developing more power to become a well-rounded player, too.) (1-8-18): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2018/01/here_are_10_running_back_prosp.html
USC RB Ronald Jones intends to enter 2018 NFL Draft (Jones rushed for 1,550 yards and 19 touchdowns this season en route to All-Pac-12 First-Team honors. He departs USC as the school's fifth-leading rusher.) (1-5-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000903045/article/usc-rb-ronald-jones-intends-to-enter-2018-nfl-draft
Darnold falls short on Cotton Bowl stage (Speed is easy to spot on the football field. But it can be easier to gain an appreciation for that speed in person. And that was the case for me at AT and T Stadium Friday night for USC RB Ronald Jones. A native of North Texas, Jones returned home for what was expected to be his final collegiate game before bolting for the NFL. And for the most part, Ohio State bottled him up, limiting the talented junior to only 64 yards on 19 carries (3.4 average).
However, when Jones had room to stretch out his legs, his acceleration allowed him to reach his top speed instantly to slash through holes before defenders could adjust. Combine that speed with his run instincts, patience and start/stop elusiveness, and Jones helps viewers rediscover Jamaal Charles flashbacks stored in the back of their mind. Jones' speed with the ball in his hands is one of the reasons why he is expected to be one of the top five running backs drafted in April.) (12-30-17): http://nfldraftscout.com/members/news/cfb_column.php?story_id=186590
Scouting the Cotton Bowl: USC vs. Ohio State (Staying in the Trojans backfield, running back Ronald Jones II is a name to know when watching the game. He has 1,486 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns on 242 attempts. Jones is very fast and the second you give him a little open space, he’s a touchdown threat. He has adequate size for a running back, at 6-foot and 200 pounds and he is constantly using every ounce of that, fighting for extra yards or bouncing off tacklers coming in too high. One thing scouts will be disheartened by is Jones’ ability in pass protection, one facet of his game that he really struggles in. This isn’t because of a lack of effort of any sort, but Jones lacks the strength to take on 250-pound pass rushers. We feel Jones is an early-Day 2 prospect, and we’ve given him a second-round grade.) (12-29-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-cotton-bowl-usc-vs-ohio-state
2018 NFL Draft prospect watch: Cotton Bowl Classic (Ronald Jones II is a dangerous and productive running back that the NFL has been eyeing for some time. Jones has forced 54 missed tackles on the year as a runner which is third among draft-eligible FBS running backs while Jones’ elusive rating of 76.7 ranks him seventh among draft-eligible FBS running backs with at least 200 carries. Jones also averaged a very impressive 3.50 yards after contact per attempt this season. – @PFF_Jordan) (12-27-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospect-watch-cotton-bowl-classic
Top 25 future NFL stars to watch in Dec. 26-30 bowl games (21. Ronald Jones II, RB, USC - Game: Cotton Bowl vs. Ohio State, Dec. 29 - Jones reminds me of the great college backs of the 1970s when he high-steps through tackles at the second level. While he's not a huge back, he's not contact-shy, stiff-arming and lowering his pads through would-be tacklers to break off a big gain. The Buckeyes defense will have to watch out for Jones on pass plays, as he can be an effective safety valve over the middle and in scramble drills.) (12-26-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000898733/article/top-25-future-nfl-stars-to-watch-in-dec-2630-bowl-games
The Rundown on Rushers (Ronald Jones, USC: Jones is often compared to Jamaal Charles because of his home-run burst and slithery running style. He's improved in the passing game this fall.) (12-15-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000893205/article/browns-could-be-juggernaut-5-bowls-that-will-shape-nfl-draft
2017 PFF All-American Team (Running Back: David Montgomery, Iowa State; Ronald Jones II, USC - While Montgomery didn’t light up the stat sheet like some of the nation’s other running backs, he was the most efficient runner outside of his offensive line. He set a PFF-era record (dating back to 2014) with 102 forced missed tackles (81 as a runner, 23 as a receiver), while averaging 3.5 yards after contact per rush. Jones also averaged 3.5 yards after contact per rush, and he added a big-play element to the USC offense with 6.3 yards per carry.) (12-7-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2017-pff-all-american-team
Week 14 Risers and Sliders (Ronald Jones/RB/USC: Jones capped off a terrific season with 140 yards rushing and two TDs during the Trojans' Pac-12 title game victory over Stanford on Friday. His productivity improved in every category compared to a year ago, including rushing yards (1,486 yds vs. 1,082 yds) and touchdowns (18 vs 12). In most cases this season, it was the running game that made the Trojans offense click and not the quarterback -- if Jones was not carrying the offense, then Sam Darnold struggled. I’m expecting Jones to enter the draft where he will end up somewhere in Round 2.) (12-4-17): http://draftanalyst.com/week-14-risers-sliders
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Ronald Jones as ready to contribute as Sam Darnold (Sam Darnold was great Friday in the Trojans' 31-28 Pac 12 Championship victory over Stanford with 325 passing yards and two touchdowns, but it was running back Ronald Jones who really led USC down the stretch. Jones is both a talented runner and receiver and even has some ability reminiscent of another USC back in Reggie Bush, only this time Jones is coming into an NFL much more capable of making use of the ability. The junior could be used very similarly to Christian McCaffrey with the Panthers next season and will make an immediate impact at the NFL level.) (12-3-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-ronald-jones-as-ready-to-contribute-as-sam-darnold/7yasck2t95t1ztbtz1337xd0
2018 NFL Draft prospects to watch in conference championships (Ronald Jones II has consistently been the Trojans’ best offensive player this season and has forced 48 missed tackles on 212 carries. Jones’s elusive rating of 76.3 ranks No. 15 among draft-eligible running backs. Jones has 21 carries of 15 or more yards on the season and is a real breakaway threat.) (12-1-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-conference-championships
Ronald Jones II outshines Sam Darnold as USC beats Arizona (Jones was the star for USC’s offense yet again Saturday night as the Trojans downed Arizona 49-35, racking up 194 yards and three touchdowns on 27 carries. The big-play machine averaged 7.2 yards per carry, adding 39 yards on three receptions. Video inside) (11-5-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/05/ronald-jones-sam-darnold-usc-arizona/
No. 21 USC rebounds with road blowout of Arizona State (Darnold gave the ball to Jones 15 minutes later — in the opening seconds of the second quarter. Jones exploded through the Sun Devils’ front, then their secondary. A blink and he was across midfield, and then he was gone. Jones pulled up 67 yards later in the end zone. Jones ran for his second house call of the night, busting out a 64-yard scamper to re-establish USC’s three-touchdown edge. Jones gashed ASU for 216 yards over the course of the game, the majority coming on his pair of long touchdown runs.) (10-28-17): https://dailytrojan.com/2017/10/28/no-21-usc-rebounds-road-blowout-arizona-state/
WATCH: Ronald Jones II goes head over heels to give USC lead vs. Utah (10-14-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/10/14/watch-ronald-jones-ii-goes-head-over-heels-to-give-usc-lead-vs-utah/
WATCH: Sam Darnold, Ronald Jones II connect for buzzer-beating TD (9-16-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/16/watch-sam-darnold-ronald-jones-ii-connect-for-buzzer-beating-td/
PFF Draft Watch: Week 3 marquee matchups (USC RB Ronald Jones vs Texas LB Malik Jefferson - Jones is off to an outstanding start this season, as 153 of his 275 rushing yards have been earned after contact and he has already forced 12 missed tackles on the ground. Jefferson meanwhile has eight run stops, but has missed three tackles and could be susceptible to Jones’ elusiveness.) (9-15-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-week-3-marquee-matchups
Lamar Jackson even better in 2017; USC RB like Jamaal Charles (The next Jamaal Charles? USC is coming off of a big win over Stanford and the Trojans will have center stage once again this weekend when they host Texas. The Longhorns rebounded after a disappointing opening loss to Maryland by pitching a shutout against San Jose State, and they have enough talent to challenge the Trojans. However, slowing down Sam Darnold is easier said than done, and USC also has an elite rushing attack led by junior Ronald Jones II. Jones is one of my favorite players to watch in college football. He's always been an explosive runner, capable of scoring from anywhere on the field. He's added a new element to his game this fall -- power. Jones added 10 pounds to his frame in the offseason and he has been breaking a ton of tackles in the first two games. His first carry of the season was a violent effort, running right through a Western Michigan defender. He's also worked to improve as a pass-catcher. In looking for a comparison for Jones, one name comes to mind: Jamaal Charles. So, if you're a Texas fan watching the game on Saturday, keep an eye on No. 25 for the Trojans. See if he reminds you of the player that helped the Longhorns upset USC to capture the national championship more than a decade ago. -- Daniel Jeremiah (9-15-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000844703/article/lamar-jackson-even-better-in-2017-usc-rb-like-jamaal-charles
USC RB Ronald Jones II draws comparison to Jamaal Charles (9-15-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/15/usc-rb-ronald-jones-ii-draws-comparison-to-jamaal-charles/
Dane Brugler's Stock Report: Mayfield plants his flag to be the top-rated senior quarterback (Keeping with the running backs, USC RB Ronald Jones (6-0, 200, 4.49, #25) was part of the Trojans' offense that ran all over Stanford on Saturday, accumulating 307 total rushing yards as a team. With his 200-pound frame, he doesn't sport an ideal build for the position, but he runs much tougher than he looks. Against the Cardinal, Jones gained 116 rushing yards -- 53 yards (or 45.7-percent) of those yards came after initial contact. Of his 23 rushes, only four went outside the tackles as Jones thrived between the hashes. He received six carries on third downs, which resulted in four first downs and two touchdowns. Bottom line, even though Jones doesn't have a powerful body type, he runs with such acceleration and toughness that he can shoot through holes and arm tackles, finishing with leg drive to fall forward. Built in the Jamaal Charles mold, Jones is a speed back with surprising run strength, putting him in the top-40 discussion next April.) (9-13-17): https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/stock-report-mayfield-plants-his-flag-to-be-the-top-rated-senior-quarterback/ar-AArTtqz
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Weekend Overview, Week 1 (USC’s Ronald Jones II got off to a great start, forcing eight missed tackles on his 19 carries while showing the big-play ability for which he’s become known.) (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 (Ronald Jones, RB, USC: While Darnold was not sharp, the Trojans avoided the upset thanks to Jones. The 6-foot, 200-pound junior, who ran for 1,082 yards and 12 scores last season, racked up 159 yards and three on 18 carries Saturday against the Broncos. His second touchdown with 6:57 remaining broke a 28-28 tie.) (9-3-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-saquon-barkley-josh-allen-maryland-michigan-florida-alabama-florida-state/16nxysfp1779t107heam617fqt
PFF Draft Watch: Ronald Jones eludes tacklers in impressive opener (9-3-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pff-draft-watch-ronald-jones-eludes-tacklers-in-impressive-opener
Sources Tell Us: Inside scoop on top NFL draft prospects (The scoop: While LSU's Derrius Guice and Penn State's Saquon Barkley are getting almost all of the attention from the national media at the running back position, USC's Ronald Jones II has quietly created his share of buzz. He has the attention of scouts. The skinny: Guice and Barkley are obviously the headliners of the 2017 college football season at the running back spot, and rightfully so. However, in the shadow of quarterback Sam Darnold's big first season, Jones was outstanding. He rushed for 1082 yards, averaging 6.5 yards per carry, and finished with 13 total touchdowns. Jones isn't as big or strong as the aforementioned runners, but he has outstanding vision, feet and burst. He's in the same class as Barkley when it comes to elusiveness.) (8-31-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000837324/article/sources-tell-us-inside-scoop-on-top-nfl-draft-prospects
Scouting the Pac-12: USC (In the running game, Darnold will find himself handing the ball to Ronald Jones II more often than not. The talented ball carrier lacks great size but is super quick and has a burst as well as a penchant for picking up big chunks of yardage from the line of scrimmage. I don’t think Jones will be a feature runner at the next level, but rather a productive situational skill player.) (8-31-17): http://draftanalyst.com/scouting-pac-12-usc
2018 Prospect Preview: Ronald Jones set to bully his way through Pac-12 defenders (8-26-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-ronald-jones-set-to-bully-his-way-through-pac-12-defenders
RB Akrum Wadley:
Scouting Reports:
Iowa Bio: http://hawkeyesports.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6987
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2018/profiles/akrum-wadley?id=2559847
Draft Wire: http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/21/isaiah-wynn-nfl-draft-profile/
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/members/ratings/profile.php?pyid=128354&draftyear=2018&genpos=RB
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2018awadley.php
Articles:
2018 NFL Combine Stock Report - Running Backs (Akrum Wadley - Down: Akrum Wadley tested very poorly at the combine. He ran a 4.54 40 despite weighing just 194. He also posted just a 32-inch vertical. He could've made up for it with an impressive 3-cone time, but he didn't bother to do that. I've had Wadley in the fourth round of my 2018 NFL Mock Draft, but he may struggle to go that early.) (3-2-18): http://walterfootball.com/combine2018stockRB.php
Running back measurements: Barkley impresses at Combine (A few notable running backs who came in under 200 pounds: North Carolina State’s Nyheim Hines (198), Iowa’s Akrum Wadley (194) and Jacksonville State’s Roc Thomas (198).) (2-28-18): http://nfl.tsxfiles.com/2018/02/28/running-back-measurements-barkley-impresses-at-combine/
Offensive Draft Position Ranks (Wadley should be a strong second-banana back at the next level due to his athleticism and receiving chops. Plus, he’s pro ready after spending his collegiate career in Iowa’s NFL-like offense. Like Michel, he simply must stop putting the ball on the carpet at the rate he did in college.) (2-15-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77940/325/offensive-draft-position-ranks
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl recap: South team wins in blowout fashion (Akrum finished with the 3rd best grade for RBs with a grade of 70.2) (1-28-18): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-recap
2018 Senior Bowl: Thursday Practice Report: North Team (Iowa running back Akrum Wadley also flashed on Thursday. In the team scrimmage, Wadley showed his serious burst exploding to the second level on an interior run where he found a lane. He followed that up with a big gain on a screen pass. Wadley was patient to follow his blockers and set them up to hit their targets before hitting the afterburner to dart downfield. Wadley didn't get a lot of headlines, but he had solid week in Mobile.) (1-25-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018practice5.php
Senior Bowl Risers: Day 2 (Akrum Wadley/RB/Iowa: Wadley wowed scouts on hand Wednesday with his ability to make quick cuts and maintain speed when changing direction. His pass-catching ability has been extremely impressive, and he quickly transitions to picking up yardage after the catch. He's shifty in the hole and uses his lack of height to his advantage, staying behind his blocks until the last second before quickly cutting into the hole.) (1-25-18): http://draftanalyst.com/senior-bowl-risers-day-22018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 2 recap (Iowa RB Akrum Wadley and Arizona State RB Kalen Ballagehttps://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-reeses-senior-bowl-day-2-recap
Why the Lions should watch RB Kalen Ballage at Senior Bowl this week (Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa (North No. 25): His size is similar to Abdullah and Riddick (5-foot-11, 195 pounds) and the production might not look huge (two 1,000-yard seasons) but he scored 28 rushing touchdowns during his career. He also had a strong showing in the Pinstripe Bowl with 283 all-purpose yards (171 of them on kick returns). He had 14 100-yard games for Iowa, too.) (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 Day 2 North: Josh Allen Shows Promise, OL Stand Out (Iowa’s Akrum Wadley continues to display speed and quickness turning the corner, but he has some struggles on the second day of practice. He hasn’t been able to run with much power inside, and he got dismantled by BYU’s Fred Warner in pass protection drills early in practice.) (1-24-18): http://www.optimumscouting.com/news/2018-senior-bowl-day-2-north-josh-allen-shows-prom
2018 Reese's Senior Bowl Day 1 recap (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: Akrum Wadley Interview (1-24-18): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2018akrumwadley.php
Senior Bowl 2018: Winners and losers from Tuesday's weigh-in at Mobile (Losers - Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa - Weigh-in: 5097 / 188 - Wadley is a quick-twitch scat back, so he wasn't expected to hit the 200-pound mark. But at nearly 5-10 and under 190 is relatively small even for a change-of-pace speedster. Perspective: Only 16 running backs who've participated at the combine since 1999 have weighed less than 188 pounds.) (1-23-18): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2018-winners-and-losers-from-tuesdays-weigh-in-at-mobile/
2018 Senior Bowl Week (Iowa RB Akrum Wadley - How much should we love running backs under 200 pounds? It is easy to like these types, since they create plays in college and make defenders miss. However, so many go through the draft process and few make a long-term impact, and even fewer reach "RB1" status. Wadley is so, so fun, but can he win on contact enough to win across the league? Or is he a role player?) (1-22-18): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/77476/351/2018-senior-bowl-week
10 prospects with the most to gain at the 2018 Senior Bowl (Akrum Wadley: If teams are looking for this year’s Kareem Hunt, Wadley could be their man. While he may not look like a bell-cow back on paper, the Hawkeye star could be a name that gains some steam heading into this year’s scouting combine. At 5-11 and nearly 200 pounds, Wadley posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons while collecting 10 touchdowns each year. What he lacks in elite speed or size, Wadley makes up in precision. Making clean cuts at the line of scrimmage and a nightmare to guard in the open field, Wadley should be a solid complimentary back for any offense at the next level. Even in a deep running back class, Wadley could climb into the Day 2 range with a strong showing in Mobile.) (1-21-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/21/10-prospects-with-the-most-to-gain-at-the-2018-senior-bowl/2/
2018 Senior Bowl preview: Running Backs (Akrum Wadley: You’ll hear him called “undersized” throughout the predraft process, but there’s nothing small about the impact Wadley had for the Hawkeyes. The 5-11, 195-pounder has been a workhorse, topping 1,300 total yards in each of the past two seasons, finding the end zone 26 times. Wadley may not be a bell-cow back at the next level, but his versatility and toughness will make NFL offensive coordinators clamoring for his services on draft weekend. Don’t be surprised if he ends up being yet another mid-round pick who makes an immediate impact for the right team as a rookie.) (1-18-18): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2018/01/18/2018-senior-bowl-preview-running-backs/3/
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Iowa's Josh Jackson, Texas' Michael Dickson among standouts (While Jackson sealed the win Wednesday, the Hawkeyes offense was carried by senior running back Akrum Wadley, who ran for 88 yards and a touchdown and caught two passes for 24 yards. Wadley also returned five kickoffs for 171 yards, including a 72-yard return in the second quarter to set up Iowa's first touchdown. Wadley, a 5-11, 195-pound New Jersey native, ran for 1,109 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He's also a reliable receiver out of the backfield with 26 catches for 329 yards and three scores this season. He had 69 receptions for 737 yards and seven touchdowns over his career to go with 2,872 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns. His ability as a return man should help Wadley hear his name called at some point during the draft.) (12-28-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-josh-jackson-michael-dickson-independence-pinstripe-foster-farms-texas/7ppvaroh1emm1ef2dn02mked2
Pinstripe Bowl score: Akrum Wadley leads Iowa to victory over Boston College (12-28-17): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/pinstripe-bowl-score-akrum-wadley-leads-iowa-to-victory-over-boston-college/
Leistikow: Akrum Wadley-led Hawkeyes finish the frozen Pinstripe Bowl fight (It was a team effort, to be sure, but Wadley’s 283 all-purpose yards on a Yankee Stadium field more suited for ice hockey helped deliver a program-needed 27-20 victory against Boston College. For the day, Wadley touched the football 29 times — 22 rushes for 88 hard-earned yards; two catches for 24 more, including a critical 17-yarder in the fourth quarter; and five kickoff returns for an Iowa-bowl-record 171. His dazzling 72-yard return in the first quarter, after Boston College had grabbed a 7-3 lead, helped set up the Hawkeyes’ first opening-half touchdown in a bowl game in three years. He won the MVP) (12-27-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/columnists/chad-leistikow/2017/12/27/akrum-wadley-iowa-hawkeyes-finish-frozen-pinstripe-bowl-fight-boston-college/984954001/
Akrum Wadley: From the 'doghouse' to an elite Iowa football running back (12-22-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/columnists/chad-leistikow/2017/12/22/akrum-wadley-legacy-hawkeye-elite-running-backs/973032001/
2018 NFL Draft Watch: Drew Lock sets SEC passing TD record (Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa — Yet another back in a long line of Iowa backs that will be going in the NFL draft, Wadley is shifty and has great vision along with a knack for finding room at the second level. He ran for 159 yards and three touchdowns in Iowa's win over Nebraska.) (11-25-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch-drew-lock-missouri-sec-passing-td-record/85tgbd51ocod1use8yowmltla
Akrum Wadley moves up rushing list, now 4th Hawkeye RB with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons (11-24-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/iowa/football/2017/11/24/akrum-wadley-moves-up-iowa-rush-becomes-4th-running-back-iowa-history-back-to-back-1-000-yard-season/893812001/
Akrum Wadley gashes Nebraska for season-high 153 yards, 3 TD (Video inside of Wadley scoring a TD.) (11-24-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/11/24/akrum-wadley-iowa-nebraska-nfl-draft-college-football/
Leistikow: Few wanted them. At Iowa, they helped turn a program around. (Akrum Wadley: When Wadley gets to midfield Saturday and sees his mother, Sharonda Phelps, it’ll mark the end of a long journey. “I’m not a big emotional guy, but I’m not sure, man. I don’t know,” says Wadley, who chose Iowa over Temple out of high school in Newark, New Jersey. “It’s going to be a relief that I’ve done it. Not a lot of people in my family where I come from go to Division I, Big Ten-type schools and finish.” Early in his career, academic probation and fumbling problems buried Wadley on Iowa’s depth chart. But his 204-yard, four-touchdown breakout at Northwestern in 2015 marked a turning point. He enters his final home game with 2,547 rushing yards, 10 shy of passing Owen Gill for No. 8 all-time at Iowa. His 30 career touchdowns are in range of catching Tavian Banks’ school-record 36. The past three years, in which Iowa has 26 wins and counting, he’s been a playmaker for an offense that desperately needed one. "He's had a tremendous career," Ferentz says, "and it would be great to see him finish on a strong note.") (11-15-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/columnists/chad-leistikow/2017/11/15/iowa-hawkeyes-football-leistikow-appreciation-josey-jewell-akrum-wadley-matt-vandeberg-seniors/867605001/
2018 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Week 11 (Iowa RB Akrum Wadley did the bulk of his work against Ohio State running to either side of center James Daniels, as his nine ‘A’ gap runs accounted for 80 of his 118 yards on the ground against the Buckeyes. He also earned 52 yards after initial contact on those runs, and three of the four missed tackles he forced for the game came on the inside carries.) (11-10-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-week-11
Ohio State at Iowa score: Hawkeyes dominate No. 6 Buckeyes in epic beatdown (Akrum Wadley rushed for 118 yards and caught three passes for 40 yards in the win) (11-4-17): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/ohio-state-at-iowa-score-hawkeyes-dominate-no-6-buckeyes-in-epic-beatdown/
Akrum Wadley going from game-breaker to workhorse for Iowa's run game (10-8-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/iowa/football/2017/10/08/akrum-wadley-going-game-breaker-workhorse-iowas-run-game/744232001/
Michigan State Holds On To Beat Iowa In Big Ten Opener (Akrum Wadley scored for Iowa on a 9-yard run in the second quarter, but he was held to 30 yards on 17 carries.) (9-30-17): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2017/09/30/michigan-state-holds-on-to-beat-iowa-in-big-ten-opener/
Iowa Hawkeyes star Akrum Wadley savors captain's role, downplays matchup vs. Saquon Barkley (9-19-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/iowa/football/2017/09/19/iowa-hawkeyes-star-running-back-akrum-wadley-savors-his-captains-role-downplays-matchup-vs-saquon-ba/681986001/
Referees wipe out Akrum Wadley's 74-yard touchdown because the NCAA hates fun (9-17-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/iowa/football/2017/09/16/akrum-wadley-touchdown-celebration-ncaa-flag-iowa-hawkeyes-football/673899001/
Leistikow: The Akrum Wadley interview I'll never forget (9-12-17): http://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/columnists/chad-leistikow/2017/09/12/leistikow-akrum-wadley-interview-ill-never-forget-northwestern/656336001/
Akrum Wadley racks up 190 total yards in big OT win for Iowa (Video of Wadley scoring the game tying TD inside) (9-9-17): http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2017/09/09/akrum-wadley-racks-up-190-total-yards-in-big-ot-win-for-iowa/
2018 NFL Draft watch: Lamar Jackson dazzles with arm, legs in win over UNC (Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa: Wadley was one of the highlights in an entertaining contest between in-state rivals, earning his second 100-yard rushing game of the season. Wadley helped lead the Hawkeyes to a 44-41 win over Iowa State by finishing with 118 yards and a touchdown on the ground, while also hauling in four receptions for 72 yards and a touchdown.) (9-10-17): http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/news/2018-nfl-draft-watch--lamar-jackson-dazzles-with-arm-legs-in-win-over-unc/e9k9t0yodh9v1ogx3zbhoxtcw
2018 NFL Draft watch: Running backs shine, top QBs struggle in season openers (Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa: Wadley showed toughness and some nice shiftiness while rushing for 116 yards on 24 carries. The 5-11, 195-pound senior is coming off a season in which he ran for 1,081 yards and 10 touchdowns.) (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 Prospect Preview: Akrum Wadley proved dominant against talent-rich Big Ten last season (7-31-17): https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/draft-2018-prospect-preview-akrum-wadley-proved-dominant-against-talent-rich-big-ten-last-season
Derrius Guice, Saquon Barkley lead top 10 RBs to watch in 2017 (6. Akrum Wadley, Iowa: Wadley's tape was some of the most entertaining of the entire group outside of Saquon Barkley and Derrius Guice. Wadley is listed at just 191 pounds, which is below the marker of what NFL teams usually look for from starting running backs, but I could see a team getting excited about Wadley as part of a committee approach. Wadley uses sudden jump cuts and spin moves to elude tacklers who are right on top of him and he has dynamic potential on the ground or as a pass-catcher.) (7-10-17): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000818768/article/derrius-guice-saquon-barkley-lead-top-10-rbs-to-watch-in-2017
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