[DYNASTY] 2005 Rookie RBs (1 Viewer)

[Bloom]

T.A. McClendon, NC State

Size: 5' 11' 215 - seems NFL ready to me

Speed: 4.55 - average at best

running style: tough, physical, patient, takes more than one guy to bring him down, sees the hole well and hits it hard (common theme among these top backs)

other: GREAT receiver

questions: injury plagued in college. burst on the scene in the freshman year with 18 TDs, and has never been the same since because of numerous injuries. not fast enough to be a breakaway threat. attitude/intensity issues (see earlier post).

After the big 3, TA is right there with JJ arrington as most ready to step and be a feature back in the NFL - the frame, toughness, running style, and receiving skills are there. The durability/character issues will certainly scare some teams away, but TA should be available in the 3rd, and maybe even in the 4th round. He has the skills to be very good NFL RB, its just a question of "getting it" - watch where he ends up and listen closely to the camp reports.

Comments:1. While he had great receiving numbers in his first two seasons, he regressed as a junior without Philip Rivers throwing to him. And one thing not shown by the numbers (since I don't know where to find this statistic for college players) is drops. He had a LOT of drops. That's what the writer of the article I posted earlier was alluding to when he said every throw to McLendon was an adventure. My impression was that it was generally a lack of concentration.

2. You didn't mention his fumbles. Again, I'm not sure where to find college fumble statistics, but he fumbled frequently. Off the top of my head, I can think of two games State lost due to his fumbles, and I'm pretty certain there were at least a couple more.

3. Toughness is a double edged sword. He was plagued with injuries and frequently missed playing time even when he didn't miss entire games. Is he tough because he played as much as he did, or is he not tough because he didn't play more? I think many State fans who watched him play throughout his career would say the latter. (Including me.)

4. I'm not sure if you are using the term "character issues" to refer to his lack of intensity and poor work ethic... those are definitely issues with him. However, he never had any off field problems that I am aware of, so I probably wouldn't use that term to describe him.

great feedback! anything that adds more detail to the picture will help a ton, i am just trying to get the conversation started about each guy with these short profiles.1) i think it was concentration, which goes under "character" - its not that he dropped passes because he was bad at it, its because of lapses of concentration.

2) good catch, ill edit to include that

3) i say tough because he doesnt shy away from contact when he runs - a tough runner. ive read both sides on toughness vis a vis injuries - he sits when he could really play, but ive also read that he plays through injuries - still a durability issue even if the latter is true.

4) im using character to refer to intensity, devotion, not run-in's with the law.

 

[Bloom]

Cedric Houston, Tennessee

Size/Speed: 6'0" 220, 4.5 - fits the NFL RB profile

Running Style: Can run inside and outside - runs with power, and knows when use his speed. Good cutting ability.

Other: displayed solid skills as a blocker and receiver

Questions: Injury Prone. Never really played up to potential/talent. some fumble issues. Never really emerged as a feature back at tennessee - causing questions about commitment, desire.

Cedric Houston has much ability as the first round backs, he's just never completely tapped into it. He can fit into just about any kind of rushing attack, and has the skills to be an NFL feature back, IF he puts it all together, health, talent, execution. Houston comes from a program in tennessee that has produced RB such as Jamal Lewis and Travis Henry. Another one to watch closely, if given a healthy opportunity, he could produce as well as any RB in this draft.

 

[coolnerd]

Bloom thanks for the work you are putting in on this.

 

[Bloom]

Eric Shelton, Louisville

Size/Speed: 6' 3" 248. 4.53 SCARY

Running Style: like greg jones, he can run you over and run away from you. Can run inside and outside.

Other: not the most polished receiver or blocker, but showed potential in both areas.

Questions: In an RBBC, never a true feature back, but did have dominant games. In a high octane offense, so some questions about product of the system. Needs work to become complete back

Shelton presents a size/speed package that is almost unmatched in this (or any)draft class. I'm watching where he lands very closely, because he could be a hugely productive back on a power running team like pittsburgh or carolina. Yet another guy in this draft class with the potential to be a stud RB

 

[Bloom]

JJ Arrington, California

Size/Speed: 5'9" 205 4.45 - a little small, but with breakaway speed

Running Style: Great initial burst as he slashes/slides through the hole, runs tough and hard, a workhorse who will carry the load as the game goes on. Runs low, runs well inside with good balance and lots of leg strength. Can run away from you in open field. Some elusiveness.

Other: very good receiver.

Questions: Size and durability under NFL punishment is a big one. had some fumble problems. Some see him as a more ideal 3rd down/change of pace back.

Arrington has produced when given the opportunity, so it wouldnt surprise me to see him settle into a productive feature back role in the NFL - he has shown that he can be the man. Sounding like a broken record - arrington has the ability to be the best RB out of this class. really. if he was a little bigger, he would probably be considered on the benson/brown/williams level.

 

[-OZ-]

so we have the big 3:

Benson - the 25 carry a game workhorse

Brown - the swiss army knife

Williams - the electrifying natural runner

we move on to the 2nd tier...

Ciatrick Fason, Florida

size: 6'0" 215 - has the frame you want in an NFL feature back

speed: 4.4 - IMPRESSIVE

running style: hits the hole at full speed, runs with power, and can make you miss. has the jets to break a TD run from anywhere on the field

other skills: great receiver, poor blocker

questions: very raw, with only one season as a fulltime back under his belt. will need to learn all the details of the RB position.

Fason could have been a high first round pick in 2006 if he had went back to florida, but apparently the pressure of already having a wife and two kids was enough for him to go pro early. Fason will need some coaching, but the talent is there to be as good as any of the top 3 backs, and he showed dedication in his last season at florida through some rough patches - no reason to think he wont apply himself and learn to every facet of the position. He will be a perfect 2nd round pick for a team that doesn't need RB help immediately, but is still looking for their franchise back of the future. Probably the best physical specimen in the 2005 class.

Bloom, what's your take on the family? Is it a distraction, or will it help motivate him, and keep him clean?

I like his talent, and if the family life is stable, if he's a quiet, hard worker, it seems to me that he could easily be the best of the bunch.

 

[Bloom]

so we have the big 3:

Benson - the 25 carry a game workhorse

Brown - the swiss army knife

Williams - the electrifying natural runner

we move on to the 2nd tier...

Ciatrick Fason, Florida

size: 6'0" 215 - has the frame you want in an NFL feature back

speed: 4.4 - IMPRESSIVE

running style: hits the hole at full speed, runs with power, and can make you miss. has the jets to break a TD run from anywhere on the field

other skills: great receiver, poor blocker

questions: very raw, with only one season as a fulltime back under his belt. will need to learn all the details of the RB position.

Fason could have been a high first round pick in 2006 if he had went back to florida, but apparently the pressure of already having a wife and two kids was enough for him to go pro early. Fason will need some coaching, but the talent is there to be as good as any of the top 3 backs, and he showed dedication in his last season at florida through some rough patches - no reason to think he wont apply himself and learn to every facet of the position. He will be a perfect 2nd round pick for a team that doesn't need RB help immediately, but is still looking for their franchise back of the future. Probably the best physical specimen in the 2005 class.

Bloom, what's your take on the family? Is it a distraction, or will it help motivate him, and keep him clean?

I like his talent, and if the family life is stable, if he's a quiet, hard worker, it seems to me that he could easily be the best of the bunch.

i dont think it'll be a distraction, if anything, it'll be motivation. Fason has made it through some tough times at florida - almost quitting as a soph because of playing time, seeing Zook, who talked him back on the team, get fired this season - and he just kept working and improving through all of it. Although he cites his family as a big reason for leaving, i think zook's firing also played into his decision.Fason has the highest ceiling of any of the 2005 backs, i agree with you - only thing missing is a full understanding of the position, which will come with time.

 

[Colin Dowling]

Cedric Houston, Tennessee

Size/Speed: 6'0" 220, 4.5 - fits the NFL RB profile

Running Style: Can run inside and outside - runs with power, and knows when use his speed.

Other: displayed solid skills as a blocker and receiver

Questions: Injury Prone. Never really played up to potential/talent. some fumble issues. Never really emerged as a feature back at tennessee - causing questions about commitment, desire.

Cedric Houston has much ability as the first round backs, he's just never completely tapped into it. He can fit into just about any kind of rushing attack, and has the skills to be an NFL feature back, IF he puts it all together, health, talent, execution. Houston comes from a program in tennessee that has produced RB such as Jamal Lewis and Travis Henry. Another one to watch closely, if given a healthy opportunity, he could produce as well as any RB in this draft.

I don't understand this. Houston led the team in rushing the last 3 seasons and was 2nd in 2001.

Houston played every game this year despite suffering a leg injury that originally had him rumored to be out 4-6 weeks earlier this year. In 2003, he played every game but 1 (Duke after suffering an ankle injury in OT the previous week). In 2002, he missed 1 game to have surgery on his thumb.

He didn't emerge as a "feature back" because he was in the backfield with Gerald Riggs, Jr.

Houston DOES have the talent of the 1st round guys, but he didn't generate as many headlines for some reason. I think he'll be a fantastic NFL player and an outright steal for someone in the late 2nd/early 3rd.

Colin

 

[Bloom]

Frank Gore, Miami

Size/Speed: 5'10 220 4.55 - not a breakaway threat, but squatty and powerful build.

Running style: good vision and authority/power/strength, very tough runner, and can do damage between the tackles. A very natural runner with great cutback ability, and has the athleticism to make guys miss. He can get to the corner, but won't run away from you. Lost his burst/explosiveness to injuries. an excellent instinctive runner, like cadillac.

Other: solid receiver, but not the most experienced, uses his strength picking up blitzes, but is not the best in reading/recognizing them

Questions: Tore the ACL in both knees.

Gore is going to be a huge second day value in the draft. I would target him in every dynasty and keeper draft. Like McGahee, the question is how far he can come back from the knee injuries. Like McGahee, I'm not worried about Gore's character and determination - he got better as the year went on, and was still in that first rehab year from the ACL - we wont see how good he can be until 2006. Gore has all the natural running ability you want in an NFL feature back, the only thing he lacks is breakaway speed, but that wont stop him from being hugely productive in the NFL.

 

[Bloom]

Cedric Houston, Tennessee

Size/Speed: 6'0" 220, 4.5 - fits the NFL RB profile

Running Style: Can run inside and outside - runs with power, and knows when use his speed.

Other: displayed solid skills as a blocker and receiver

Questions: Injury Prone. Never really played up to potential/talent. some fumble issues. Never really emerged as a feature back at tennessee - causing questions about commitment, desire.

Cedric Houston has much ability as the first round backs, he's just never completely tapped into it. He can fit into just about any kind of rushing attack, and has the skills to be an NFL feature back, IF he puts it all together, health, talent, execution. Houston comes from a program in tennessee that has produced RB such as Jamal Lewis and Travis Henry. Another one to watch closely, if given a healthy opportunity, he could produce as well as any RB in this draft.

I don't understand this. Houston led the team in rushing the last 3 seasons and was 2nd in 2001.

Houston played every game this year despite suffering a leg injury that originally had him rumored to be out 4-6 weeks earlier this year. In 2003, he played every game but 1 (Duke after suffering an ankle injury in OT the previous week). In 2002, he missed 1 game to have surgery on his thumb.

He didn't emerge as a "feature back" because he was in the backfield with Gerald Riggs, Jr.

Houston DOES have the talent of the 1st round guys, but he didn't generate as many headlines for some reason. I think he'll be a fantastic NFL player and an outright steal for someone in the late 2nd/early 3rd.

Colin

The scuttlebutt is that Riggs looked better than Houston, despite being less talented. I've read that Houston lost the confidence of the coaching staff at times, and he was dinged up a lot at tennessee - he's tough enough to play through injuries, but you would rather see him not get hurt as often.I agree 100% that houston has the tools to be as good as any back in the draft, but you can't deny that he hasn't put it all together yet. He was as coveted a recruit as any RB coming into college, and hasnt lived up to the billing - yet.

It will be very important to watch what houston does in camp - if he's avoiding injury and getting good reviews from the coaching staff, i would bump his grade up much closer to the top 3, but if those problems continue to plague him, he could be a frustrating guy a la william green.

 

[Bloom]

Kay-Jay Harris, West Virginia

Size/Speed: 6'1" 240 4.55 - like shelton, a scary package

Running Style: Powerful inside, can dish out punishment. Good vision and patience seeing opening, and very good burst through the hole for someone his size. Can get to the outside. Good stiff arm. A little upright, exposing him to more hits. Not a breakaway guy, but has more than enough speed to make big plays.

Other: Raw in receiving and blocking, but has flashed the natural ability to be a great receiver, and clearly has the size to be a good blocker. Will need to learn the position. Fumble issues.

Questions: Like Morency, older than a typical RB prospect because of a baseball career. Dinged up a lot, which is a concern because of his physical running style. In an RBBC at WVU, never carried the full load, which again points to the durability question. Raw - only 2 seasons of top level college football.

Harris is probably at best on the edge of the top 10 RBs in this draft, and again, he has the physical tools to be among the top 2 or 3 RBs when its all said and done. Another big RB who could be devastating in a power running attack. Has tons of upside.

 

[CalBear]

JJ Arrington, California

Size/Speed: 5'9" 205 4.45 - a little small, but with breakaway speed

Running Style: Great initial burst as he slashes/slides through the hole, runs tough and hard, a workhorse who will carry the load as the game goes on. Runs low, runs well inside with good balance and lots of leg strength. Can run away from you in open field. Some elusiveness.

Other: very good receiver.

Questions: Size and durability under NFL punishment is a big one. had some fumble problems. Some see him as a more ideal 3rd down/change of pace back.

Arrington has produced when given the opportunity, so it wouldnt surprise me to see him settle into a productive feature back role in the NFL - he has shown that he can be the man. Sounding like a broken record - arrington has the ability to be the best RB out of this class. really. if he was a little bigger, he would probably be considered on the benson/brown/williams level.

Arrington is still a bit of a mystery to me. On the field, he did not look as impressive as freshman Marshawn Lynch, who does amazing things on every play. Arrington is not flashy, but he does seem to have good vision and good lateral movement, even at speed. He was very productive, but fairly quietly; he outproduced Adrian Peterson all year long and rushed for 100 yards in every game, yet didn't even make it as a Heisman finalist. Is that because he's really not as talented, or is it just because his style is quiet? I suppose we will see.The NFL back I would compare him with is Warrick Dunn.

 

[Silverstreak]

Cadillac Williams, Auburn

Size: a little smaller than you would like - 5'11" 205

Runs extremely tough for a smaller guy, breaks a lot of tackles and will use the stiff arm effectively.

Questions: Smallish frame brings up durability questions. Not a complete back. RBBC in auburn more of a question for him because of his size - hasnt proven he take the punishment of a full feature back load.

Williams will be a difference maker, the only question is whether he'll hold up under the wear and tear of a full NFL season.

Bloom Posted: Jan 31 2005, 06:43

Ciatrick Fason, Florida

size: 6'0" 215 - has the frame you want in an NFL feature back

Bloom...great stuff. Very informitive, however, the one thing I question is simply the fact that Cadillac's pegged with the "small guy" tag from many prognosticators. I didn't realize that (compareing your thoughts between Caddy and Fason), 1" in height and 5#'s of beef is the difference between your proto-typical NFL RB and a durability risk because "The Program" had two Arabians instead of 1 in Auburn. Props to Auburns "staff" as they stuffed a donught in the "L" coloumn greatly because of the durrability of two great backs. I hope everyone keeps taggin' Caddy with this lable as I think he may slide down many a dynasty draft board 1 or 2 spots, perhaps 3 or 4 if the needs of the teams at the top of the draft board need WR help with Edwards/Williams out there, you may even be able to stab Caddy at 4 or 5...if your very fortunate. I think he's clearly #1 off the board in a Dynasty draft if RB's your primary need...IMO

 

[Bloom]

Cadillac Williams, Auburn

Size: a little smaller than you would like - 5'11" 205

Runs extremely tough for a smaller guy, breaks a lot of tackles and will use the stiff arm effectively.

Questions: Smallish frame brings up durability questions. Not a complete back. RBBC in auburn more of a question for him because of his size - hasnt proven he take the punishment of a full feature back load.

Williams will be a difference maker, the only question is whether he'll hold up under the wear and tear of a full NFL season.

Bloom Posted: Jan 31 2005, 06:43

Ciatrick Fason, Florida

size: 6'0" 215 - has the frame you want in an NFL feature back

Bloom...great stuff. Very informitive, however, the one thing I question is simply the fact that Cadillac's pegged with the "small guy" tag from many prognosticators. I didn't realize that (compareing your thoughts between Caddy and Fason), 1" in height and 5#'s of beef is the difference between your proto-typical NFL RB and a durability risk because "The Program" had two Arabians instead of 1 in Auburn. Props to Auburns "staff" as they stuffed a donught in the "L" coloumn greatly because of the durrability of two great backs. I hope everyone keeps taggin' Caddy with this lable as I think he may slide down many a dynasty draft board 1 or 2 spots, perhaps 3 or 4 if the needs of the teams at the top of the draft board need WR help with Edwards/Williams out there, you may even be able to stab Caddy at 4 or 5...if your very fortunate. I think he's clearly #1 off the board in a Dynasty draft if RB's your primary need...IMO

the evaluation is not strictly based on weight and height, its also how they are distributed. Williams is more "slight" than "thick", like portis.

 

[Silverstreak]

Cadillac Williams, Auburn

Size: a little smaller than you would like - 5'11" 205

Runs extremely tough for a smaller guy, breaks a lot of tackles and will use the stiff arm effectively.

Questions: Smallish frame brings up durability questions. Not a complete back. RBBC in auburn more of a question for him because of his size - hasnt proven he take the punishment of a full feature back load.

Williams will be a difference maker, the only question is whether he'll hold up under the wear and tear of a full NFL season.

Bloom Posted: Jan 31 2005, 06:43

Ciatrick Fason, Florida

size: 6'0" 215 - has the frame you want in an NFL feature back

Bloom...great stuff. Very informitive, however, the one thing I question is simply the fact that Cadillac's pegged with the "small guy" tag from many prognosticators. I didn't realize that (compareing your thoughts between Caddy and Fason), 1" in height and 5#'s of beef is the difference between your proto-typical NFL RB and a durability risk because "The Program" had two Arabians instead of 1 in Auburn. Props to Auburns "staff" as they stuffed a donught in the "L" coloumn greatly because of the durrability of two great backs. I hope everyone keeps taggin' Caddy with this lable as I think he may slide down many a dynasty draft board 1 or 2 spots, perhaps 3 or 4 if the needs of the teams at the top of the draft board need WR help with Edwards/Williams out there, you may even be able to stab Caddy at 4 or 5...if your very fortunate. I think he's clearly #1 off the board in a Dynasty draft if RB's your primary need...IMO

the evaluation is not strictly based on weight and height, its also how they are distributed. Williams is more "slight" than "thick", like portis.

Bloom, AGAIN, GREAT STUFF. No shot intended. You've put a great deal of work into this and I along with many others are greatfull for your efforts. My point obvioiusly was lost...many prognosticators are portraying the RBBC in Auburn was because of Caddy's "smallish" size as opposed to the strength of having 2 horse's. Personally I feel that his size is insignificant...dudes solid. I was mearly useing your assessments as a "gage of measurement", nothing else. Great stuff man.

 

[Bloom]

Cadillac Williams, Auburn

Size: a little smaller than you would like - 5'11" 205

Runs extremely tough for a smaller guy, breaks a lot of tackles and will use the stiff arm effectively.

Questions: Smallish frame brings up durability questions. Not a complete back. RBBC in auburn more of a question for him because of his size - hasnt proven he take the punishment of a full feature back load.

Williams will be a difference maker, the only question is whether he'll hold up under the wear and tear of a full NFL season.

Bloom Posted: Jan 31 2005, 06:43

Ciatrick Fason, Florida

size: 6'0" 215 - has the frame you want in an NFL feature back

Bloom...great stuff. Very informitive, however, the one thing I question is simply the fact that Cadillac's pegged with the "small guy" tag from many prognosticators. I didn't realize that (compareing your thoughts between Caddy and Fason), 1" in height and 5#'s of beef is the difference between your proto-typical NFL RB and a durability risk because "The Program" had two Arabians instead of 1 in Auburn. Props to Auburns "staff" as they stuffed a donught in the "L" coloumn greatly because of the durrability of two great backs. I hope everyone keeps taggin' Caddy with this lable as I think he may slide down many a dynasty draft board 1 or 2 spots, perhaps 3 or 4 if the needs of the teams at the top of the draft board need WR help with Edwards/Williams out there, you may even be able to stab Caddy at 4 or 5...if your very fortunate. I think he's clearly #1 off the board in a Dynasty draft if RB's your primary need...IMO

the evaluation is not strictly based on weight and height, its also how they are distributed. Williams is more "slight" than "thick", like portis.

Bloom, AGAIN, GREAT STUFF. No shot intended. You've put a great deal of work into this and I along with many others are greatfull for your efforts. My point obvioiusly was lost...many prognosticators are portraying the RBBC in Auburn was because of Caddy's "smallish" size as opposed to the strength of having 2 horse's. Personally I feel that his size is insignificant...dudes solid. I was mearly useing your assessments as a "gage of measurement", nothing else. Great stuff man.

no shot taken at all - i started this thread to start the discussion, not end it.just to clarify: RBBC in auburn presents a question for cadillac, not because of a perception that they did it to protect his and his smaller size - you're exactly right, they had an RBBC because you just cant keep those guys off the field for most of the game - the reason its a question is that we havent seen if he can take the punishment of being a true feature back and hold up under it. now this is not as big a deal for guys like brown, shelton, barber, because they have decent to ideal NFL RB size. cadillac does not, which makes it more uncertain that he will be able to withstand all the wear and tear. If cadillac had been a true feature back in college like arrington, it would reduce the questions about his size because he had already proven he could do it.

 

[Bloom]

here's who i am still planning on writing up:Ryan Moats, Louisiana TechDarren Sproles, Kansas StateBrandon Jacobs, Southern IllinoisDamien Nash, MissouriMaurice Clarett, former The Ohio State UniversityLionel Gates, LouisvilleAnthony Davis, WisconsinNehemiah Broughton, The CitadelI also might expand a little on the short blurbs i wrote on Herron, Grant, Reyes, and Purify.Are there any other 2nd day/FA guys that anyone is curious about?

 

[Bloom]

Ryan Moats, Louisiana Tech

Size/Speed: 5'9" 205 - 4.55 - on the small side, and doesnt mitigate it with blazing speed

Running Style: Short stocky guy with good feet. Can stop/start and cut very well. Very elusive and will make you miss. slashes/bursts well and can beat you to the corner. Runs tough and is willing to go inside, getting yards after contact. Very productive like Arrington. can break long runs despite lack of track star speed.

Other: not much experience receiving, but looks like he should be able to do it at the next level. good experience recognizing blitzes and blocking in a spread offense, but not big enough to take on blitzers, relegated to cut blocking.

Questions: Another RB with a size question, as he did wear down under the workhorse load last season. Like Arrington, he would be an elite prospect if he were a little bigger.

From a gameplay standpoint, its hard to not like Moats. He was a stud workhorse back in an offense that was one-dimensional. He put up good games against very good competition (miami, tennessee, fresno state). He is a playmaker, taking over games single-handedly. He's a good character guy and very hard worker, and has risen his level of play every year. Some project him as a 3rd down/KR/change of pace guy, and i have to think he would excel in this role. If he proves that he can run inside in the pros, he will be a feature back and a huge steal, likely lasting until the 2nd day of the draft. As i've said about many of the 2nd and 3rd tier guys, keep an eye on reports out of camp, because if answers the size/durability question, he will be a very productive every down pro.

 

[ILoveMyLions]

here's who i am still planning on writing up:Ryan Moats, Louisiana TechDarren Sproles, Kansas StateBrandon Jacobs, Southern IllinoisDamien Nash, MissouriMaurice Clarett, former The Ohio State UniversityLionel Gates, LouisvilleAnthony Davis, WisconsinNehemiah Broughton, The CitadelI also might expand a little on the short blurbs i wrote on Herron, Grant, Reyes, and Purify.Are there any other 2nd day/FA guys that anyone is curious about?

I'm interested to see what the write up will be for Sproles and Clarett. I see them both as wild cards in this draft and don't know where they will go.Awesome work Bloom...keep it up1

 

[Monty Burns]

Bloom, I'll be extremely interested in seeing your rankings once the NFL Draft has taken place and we know where these guys will be starting their NFL careers.

Great stuff!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'll second this......you're HIRED....thanks for the great info..

 

[Mr. Vegas]

Anybody have a link of these guys running? (esp. Fason) Last year I got a good feel for how good Mewelde Moore would be after watching him run.

That was a good catch with Mewelde Moore,no one thought He was good.

 

[beto]

Anybody have a link of these guys running? (esp. Fason) Last year I got a good feel for how good Mewelde Moore would be after watching him run.

That was a good catch with Mewelde Moore,no one thought He was good.

Okay, I'll go ahead and say it. Mr. Vegas is the RB daddy.

 

[Mr. Vegas]

Anybody have a link of these guys running?  (esp. Fason) Last year I got a good feel for how good Mewelde Moore would be after watching him run.

That was a good catch with Mewelde Moore,no one thought He was good.

Okay, I'll go ahead and say it. Mr. Vegas is the RB daddy.

Even a broken watch is correct once a day.

 

[-OZ-]

here's who i am still planning on writing up:Ryan Moats, Louisiana TechDarren Sproles, Kansas StateBrandon Jacobs, Southern IllinoisDamien Nash, MissouriMaurice Clarett, former The Ohio State UniversityLionel Gates, LouisvilleAnthony Davis, WisconsinNehemiah Broughton, The CitadelI also might expand a little on the short blurbs i wrote on Herron, Grant, Reyes, and Purify.Are there any other 2nd day/FA guys that anyone is curious about?

I'm interested to see what the write up will be for Sproles and Clarett. I see them both as wild cards in this draft and don't know where they will go.Awesome work Bloom...keep it up1

same here. Both are the big risk / reward guys. (First time I've ever referred to Sproles as "big")Also, not that I expect much out of the guy, but do you have any info on DeAndre Cobb from Michigan State?

 

[Bloom]

Darren Sproles, Kansas State

Size/Speed: 5'7" 185 4.4 - most believe he's too small to be a feature back in the NFL, but he's still a burner.

Running Style: A smaller version of cadillac. outstanding balance, change of direction moves, and open field elusiveness. runs extremely tough for such a little guy and has lower body strength. Like most elusive backs, he will dance a little too much instead of just taking a short gain when the holes not there.

Other: Great pass catcher, solid on reading blitz pickups, but too small to physically challenge blitzer - has to cut block. good return man.

Questions: Size, Size and Size. Sproles may be able to produce as a feature RB, but its hard to see him holding up for most than a few games taking 20-30 hits a game from NFL bodies. He did fall off in 2004 when his team did - couldnt produce when teams focused on him, unlike Moats. Sproles was durable in college, so you never know, he could hold up.

Count me in the "Sproles is too small to be featured" camp. I think he can be a productive NFL player, but not on everydown. Griffin and Blaylock are good comparisons, and they were productive as feature backs, but only held up for a few games before getting hurt. You might project him as 3rd down back, but he will need be a perfect cut blocker for that to happen, blitzing LBs will just run him over. I think Sproles's future is as a Dante Hall "x-factor" player. He will be a nice 2nd day pick for a team that knows how to use him.

 

[Finatic]

A writeup on Jesse Lumsden would be nice BloomThanx

 

[Bloom]

Maurice Clarett, former The Ohio State University

Size/Speed: 5'11" 230 4.6 - built like a prototype NFL workhorse back. not a breakaway guy, but can still beat you to the corner.

Running Style: again, prototype NFL style runner. vision and patience allow him to find the hole, and he has a great burst through it. does not shy away from contact, and will run over defenders - very powerful runner. great runner between the tackles, but sees and makes the corner when the opening is there. will wear down a defense as the game goes on and gain momentum, like a true workhorse. Great in goal-to-go situations.

Other: showed very good skills as a blocker and receiver, will need coaching to perfect.

Questions: Character and the uncertainty that goes with being out of football for two years, and some durability concerns. The character one is huge, as clarett got suspended, then dismissed from school, then sued the NFL and lost his appeal to get in the draft, and then turned on OSU pointing the finger at them for all his problems. Definitely a "me first" guy. Clarett did wear down in his only season, and missed 3 games. What kind of shape he is in is a big unknown, workouts will be huge in determining his draft position. he did ok (4.6 40) in workouts last year, but opened up more character concerns by forcing scouts to come to him and showing up in less than game shape.

Clarett is the very definition of a boom/bust guy. If he is in football shape and puts all of his issues behind him, he can be a stud NFL RB, no doubt about it. Clarett has the instinct, skills, and physical tools to be the centerpiece of an offense. Clarett could also produce NOTHING, not being able to step up when he is just another rookie trying to make the team. the way he reacted to his situation at ohio state has to really worry NFL GMs, will he flake out when he faces any kind of adversity? Still his talent will probably buy him a second, third, and fourth chance in the NFL if he screws up. He will be one of the most watched players in camp. I am withholding judgment on clarett until i see how he works out and what his comments are in interviews. if he gets good reviews from the workouts and seems to have learned some humility, i will target him in every single league i'm in. if he's still acting like he's owed superstar treatment, ill be happy to take another guy from this deep class. someone in your league will take him before he should go because of name recognition, so you will probably have to reach for him, but if he "gets it", he has superstud potential. One of the most important players to evaluate for dynasty/keeper rookie drafts.

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

Darren Sproles, Kansas State

Size/Speed: 5'7" 185 4.4 - most believe he's too small to be a feature back in the NFL, but he's still a burner.

Running Style: A smaller version of cadillac. outstanding balance, change of direction moves, and open field elusiveness. runs extremely tough for such a little guy and has lower body strength. Like most elusive backs, he will dance a little too much instead of just taking a short gain when the holes not there.

Other: Great pass catcher, solid on reading blitz pickups, but too small to physically challenge blitzer - has to cut block. good return man.

Questions: Size, Size and Size. Sproles may be able to produce as a feature RB, but its hard to see him holding up for most than a few games taking 20-30 hits a game from NFL bodies. He did fall off in 2004 when his team did - couldnt produce when teams focused on him, unlike Moats. Sproles was durable in college, so you never know, he could hold up.

Count me in the "Sproles is too small to be featured" camp. I think he can be a productive NFL player, but not on everydown. Griffin and Blaylock are good comparisons, and they were productive as feature backs, but only held up for a few games before getting hurt. You might project him as 3rd down back, but he will need be a perfect cut blocker for that to happen, blitzing LBs will just run him over. I think Sproles's future is as a Dante Hall "x-factor" player. He will be a nice 2nd day pick for a team that knows how to use him.

Remember, Sproles measured 5'5" at the Senior Bowl... Even shorter than short!!!He's a player though. There's no doubt about that. He's gonna get drafted and make a roster. Initally he'll be handling KO returns for sure and then the team will probably see how he does at RB. He's an excellent return guy as well. No doubt that will be his meal ticket to making a roster.

 

[Bloom]

Brandon Jacobs, Southern Illinois

Size/Speed: 6'4" 260, 4.55 - another total freak of nature. He could be a good DE or LB in the NFL, but he has RB speed.

Running Style: straight-ahead power runner. Has speed, but not elusiveness. does have some moves and speed to get to the corner, but he's a power guy all the way. One problem is that he runs upright and needs to get lower, using his shoulder pads as weapons.

Other: Good hands as a receiver, could be a devastating blocker, but needs coaching in that area.

Questions: He will have to learn to run lower to be an RB in the NFL. He could easily be converted to FB, or defense - and showed unwillingness to do this at auburn, where he was behind Cadillac and Ronnie - causing him to transfer. Only produced against I-AA competition. Still doesnt take full advantage his size and strength in his running style.

Yet another size/speed freak that power running teams will drool over. Jacobs needs coaching, and the team drafts him could very well do it with the intent of making him an edge speed rusher, rendering him worthless for fantasy. However, IF he stays at RB, he could be a nightmare for defenses once he harnesses his tools. He will cause DBs to crap their pants in the open field. Watch what the team that takes him has to say about their plans for him. If he is practicing as a tailback, he is definitely worth a dynasty/keeper pick.

 

[Tau837]

Maurice Clarett, former The Ohio State University

...If he is in football shape and puts all of his issues behind him, he can be a stud NFL RB, no doubt about it...

Granted, you qualified this statement with a big if, but you seem to be implying that if his success hinges on his playing ability alone that there is no doubt he can be a stud NFL RB.I wouldn't agree with that statement. He played a total of 11 college football games, and the last one was over two years ago. That is a small sample size to predict NFL greatness, particularly with the 2+ year layoff that followed.

Also, I'm not sure if by "issues" you mean to include durability as well as character. IMO "some durability concerns" probably understates it a bit. He missed 3 games in his one season.

From KFFL:

there are serious questions about his physical readiness to play on the next level. He battled injuries the entire season with Ohio State and despite three weeks rest between the final game of the season and the National Championship game; he was hampered by several nagging injuries and did not perform to the best of his ability against Miami (Fla.). Against the Miami defense, who has already sent several players to the NFL in recent years, Clarett totaled 47 yards on 22 carries; although he did add two touchdown runs. However, over the course of the season, Clarett did not suffer many hits, but yet still struggled to stay healthy in 2002. Knee and shoulder injuries prevented him from playing a full collegiate season in his only year at Ohio State.

 

[Bloom]

Maurice Clarett, former The Ohio State University

...If he is in football shape and puts all of his issues behind him, he can be a stud NFL RB, no doubt about it...

Granted, you qualified this statement with a big if, but you seem to be implying that if his success hinges on his playing ability alone that there is no doubt he can be a stud NFL RB.I wouldn't agree with that statement. He played a total of 11 college football games, and the last one was over two years ago. That is a small sample size to predict NFL greatness, particularly with the 2+ year layoff that followed.

Also, I'm not sure if by "issues" you mean to include durability as well as character. IMO "some durability concerns" probably understates it a bit. He missed 3 games in his one season.

From KFFL:

there are serious questions about his physical readiness to play on the next level. He battled injuries the entire season with Ohio State and despite three weeks rest between the final game of the season and the National Championship game; he was hampered by several nagging injuries and did not perform to the best of his ability against Miami (Fla.). Against the Miami defense, who has already sent several players to the NFL in recent years, Clarett totaled 47 yards on 22 carries; although he did add two touchdown runs.  However, over the course of the season, Clarett did not suffer many hits, but yet still struggled to stay healthy in 2002.  Knee and shoulder injuries prevented him from playing a full collegiate season in his only year at Ohio State.

i agree with the cavaet about durability - i mentioned that he wore down and missed 3 games. Still, Even if he only lasts 8 games into a season, he'll be a stud for those 8 games - thats what i mean by "no doubt" - there's no doubt in my mind that a healthy, focused clarett will produce as a feature back - the durability issue just shortens the amount of time each season that that will be true. I'm not worried about the small sample size, because the running style he employs translates perfectly to the way you need to run to have success in the NFL.

 

[Mr. Vegas]

Darren Sproles, Kansas State

Size/Speed: 5'7" 185 4.4 - most believe he's too small to be a feature back in the NFL, but he's still a burner.

Running Style: A smaller version of cadillac. outstanding balance, change of direction moves, and open field elusiveness. runs extremely tough for such a little guy and has lower body strength. Like most elusive backs, he will dance a little too much instead of just taking a short gain when the holes not there.

Other: Great pass catcher, solid on reading blitz pickups, but too small to physically challenge blitzer - has to cut block. good return man.

Questions: Size, Size and Size. Sproles may be able to produce as a feature RB, but its hard to see him holding up for most than a few games taking 20-30 hits a game from NFL bodies. He did fall off in 2004 when his team did - couldnt produce when teams focused on him, unlike Moats. Sproles was durable in college, so you never know, he could hold up.

Count me in the "Sproles is too small to be featured" camp. I think he can be a productive NFL player, but not on everydown. Griffin and Blaylock are good comparisons, and they were productive as feature backs, but only held up for a few games before getting hurt. You might project him as 3rd down back, but he will need be a perfect cut blocker for that to happen, blitzing LBs will just run him over. I think Sproles's future is as a Dante Hall "x-factor" player. He will be a nice 2nd day pick for a team that knows how to use him.

Yeah He's way too small. I woudn't even think of drafting Him.

 

[Englishteacher]

If I can only go down I'm not going to run the 40 simply on the slight chance that on that day I could have an off day and thus cost myself part of a signing bonus....

I read somewhere, don't remember where. I'll try to find it if I can, but Williams said he's planning on running at the combine.

Edited to add:

I actually seen it on another board and the author is suppose to be someone from the Titans who was at the Senior Bowl. I have no link to prove, so take it for what its worth, but here it is.

cadillac surprised alot of people this week............he really is talented and i think he may have moved up to the top 5............the combine will be big for him ...........he broke a huge trend in the RB group and his agent recieved a ton of praise for it.............williams told everyone as long as he is not hurt he will run at indy ...............last yr most of the highly ranked RB did not run..............and the scouts and teams hate this trend...........RBrown will have to have a monster combine to catch cadillac now..........benson may be slipping as well..........the combine is always very interesting.........we did get an appearance from Mo Clarrett and i have to tell you he looked great.......weighed in at 227 for the Giants..........but he left as quick as he came..........he is working out this week down in tampa.......this draft maybe to RB what the 1983 draft was to QB's..............

hey arm chair.... care to share where you got this info? what board? if you don't want to say here pm me thanks for providing a possible scoop

you know i wonder if the guy on this site talking "inside info" for the Titans is really Floyd Reese playing coy in the rumor mill to manipulate perceptions for their advantage ha ha

you never know

 

[Bloom]

Damien Nash, former Missouri

Size/Speed: 5'11" 215 4.45 - great size/speed combo is the only reason nash will get drafted

Running Style: Incomplete picture, as Nash only had 244 carries at the D-I level. He does have breakaway speed, and uses his stocky frame and balance to run powerfully, breaking arm tackles.

Other: good receiving skills

Questions: Tore his ACL twice, latest in 2002. suspended after questioning the coaches play-calling and then quit the team.

Nash may not even get drafted, but he is still on my watch list. He definitely has NFL ability and tools, but has had big time character problems. He is very raw and has room to make his game a lot better. We only saw the tip of the iceberg last year, as he was just fully back from his 2nd major knee injury. Nash is one of those guys who will probably end up on a developmental squad. He may never even see an NFL roster, but then again, he could also get a shot to start at some point with the RB injury frequency in the NFL. If Nash sticks with it and keeps his head on straight long enough to get that shot, i would bet on his using his ability to take full advantage of it. If he gets drafted, i would take that as a sign that teams think he's worth the risk, and you should too - you'll probably be able to sign him as a FA in your dynasty/keeper league. Even if he's undrafted, if he makes an NFL roster come september, I would definitely keep an eye on him and jump on him if he gets an opportunity.

 

[Bloom]

Lionel Gates, Louisville

Size/Speed: 6'0" 220 4.55 - definitely NFL capable in both categories

Running style: Very powerful inside runner, but incomplete as he was with Eric Shelton and Michael Bush in the best backfield this side of auburn.

Other: Very Good receiver and can return kicks

Questions: lost in the shuffle at louisville and still got banged up in an RBBC. has a "good at everything, great at nothing" label. some fumble problems.

Gates will probably fall to at least the 5th round without a worldbeater workout, and that should tell you how sick this RB class is. He has NFL size and speed, and can help a team in a lot of ways. He's got a great work ethic, and took the RBBC completely in stride at louisville. He is the kind of player who will hang around the league for a long time because he does so many things, and will probably get a start at some point - giving him a chance to show that he can use those NFL tools, and well, you never know. The RBBC could be concealing some serious draft value here, as Gates could break out given the opportunity. If your dynasty/keeper rookie draft goes 50-60 deep, you'd be well served to take a flier on Gates and stash him.

 

[Bloom]

Anthony Davis, Wisconsin

Size/speed: 5'8" 195 4.4 - size is a question, speed is definitely not.

Running style: smart, hard runner with good vision - hits the hole with authority and can run well inside despite small frame because he is so decisive. Can take it to the house. Extremely productive in college when healthy.

Other: needs work in blocking and receiving, which is a problem since he has 3rd down back size.

Questions: yet another very productive college RB with a size question. again, not well rounded. banged up a lot at wisconsin in the last two years - definite durability concerns. Character issues with some off the field incidents.

Davis is the 4th RB in this draft with Sproles, Arrington, and Moats, that is blessed with great natural running ability, but plagued by questions about whether his less than ideal size in the NFL will cut it. His draft stock takes a further hit when you factor in that those other 3 can help a team in other ways than 1st and 2nd down running, and davis can't do that without some development. Still, like the other 3 dwarves, you can't ignore his prolific production, it indicates a very good instinct for running the ball, and unlike most little guys, Davis thrives between the tackles and doesnt dance. Like Sproles, he could get a shot to start at some point and be hugely productive, only to get hurt in the next 2 or 3 games. Still, his upside if he can prove that he can handle the punishment is very high because he can be a gamebreaker getting into the secondary on inside runs, and running away from DBs. He would be much more coveted in a normal RB crop, maybe a late 3rd rounder. This year he falls well into the 2nd day.

 

[Renegades of Funk]

Great info Bloom! Thanks for putting in all the work.

 

[-OZ-]

Darren Sproles, Kansas State

I think Sproles's future is as a Dante Hall "x-factor" player. He will be a nice 2nd day pick for a team that knows how to use him.

I wholeheartedly agree with this. I've said it in other threads, Sproles can make it to the pro bowl as a return specialist. Unfortunetly, that means little FF value.

 

[Bloom]

Now we're getting to the real sleepers...

Nehemiah Broughton, The Citadel

Size/Speed: 6'0" 240 4.55 - another guy with freakish speed for his size

Running Style: straight ahead bruiser, dishes out punishment. workhorse who wears down a defense.

Other: decent receiver, very good blocker

Questions: didnt rip up I-AA as he should have. Tore ACL in 2003.

The fact that Broughton played non division I ball cuts both ways. A guy with his tools should have been dominant at that level, and that is worrisome. On the other hand, he played on a bad team in a spread offense, which means we haven't seen if he can flourish given the right role in the right offense, with guys opening him holes for him in a power running game. His ceiling is so high with that size/speed combo that you have to keep an eye on where he lands and what kind of reviews he's getting in camp, because the team that drafts/signs him should have a plan to start unlocking that untapped potential. One problem is that he projects to be a real nice fullback, which would kill his fantasy value, but you might have said the same thing about nick goings... definitely put broughton on your watch list.

 

[Bloom]

Jesse Lumsden, McMaster(canada)

Size/Speed: 6'2" 220 4.4

Running Style: very powerful runner with some elusiveness and breakaway speed. Ridiculously productive, had a legendary record shattering canadian college career. showed patience and burst through the hole in the east-west shrine game, his first real american football game.

Other: UNKNOWN. my understanding is that its hard to even find tape of him receiving (1 catch last year) or blocking.

Questions: Played canadian football, not american - completely inexperienced in our style of football.

Lumsden is a very intriguing prospect, with outstanding NFL measureables and a great nose for running the ball, as shown by his break-every-record collegiate career in canada. He wasnt even INVITED to the NFL combine this year, but did get in the east-west shrine game and might get an invite yet because he was the best back on the field - with 5 carries for 41 yards and 3 catches for 23. Ryan Moats was impressed and said "Football in China is the same as football in Canada and the U.S., if you're a player, it doesn't matter where you're from." Lumsden is a feel good story who has a lot people rooting for him, but remember that he would probably be a CFL superstar, and if he doesnt get drafted, i would expect him to go back. If he does end up in an NFL camp, he could be one of the best longshot stories the NFL has ever seen, because he has the tools be not just good, but great.

 

[Bloom]

DeAndra Cobb, Michigan St.

Size/Speed: 5'10" 190 4.4

Running Style: speedy straight line runner. TD threat every time he touches the ball.

Other: Unbelievable kick returner. very raw blocker and receiver.

Questions: has a 3rd down back build without 3rd down back skills. still inexperienced at the RB position on the whole. Never a feature back and probably will never even be considered as one.

Cobb is a gamebreaker. He was downright electric as a kick returner, and will instantly make a difference in the NFL in that part of the game and should play on sundays because of it. Like Sproles, his future is as an "x-factor" guy, but much more one-dimensional than sproles, because he's not very elusive, just a straight speed guy. He won't make a fantasy impact, but you'll see him on gamebreaks returning a kickoff for a TD a few times a year if he can stick on a roster.

 

[Man in the yellow hat]

You know what I find amusing....Walter Reyes is nowhere to be found. The guy was rated a top five RB prospect by some after his junior year. Now, after not quite going out on top his senior year, this guy is continually left out of the mix. He can play. A guy doesn't make All American teams then suddenly forget how to play as a senior. Someone will be getting a steal in the draft.

 

[Man in the yellow hat]

Jesse Lumsden, McMaster(canada)

Size/Speed: 6'2" 220 4.4

Running Style: very powerful runner with some elusiveness and breakaway speed. Ridiculously productive, had a legendary record shattering canadian college career. showed patience and burst through the hole in the east-west shrine game, his first real american football game.

Other: UNKNOWN. my understanding is that its hard to even find tape of him receiving (1 catch last year) or blocking.

Questions: Played canadian football, not american - completely inexperienced in our style of football.

Lumsden is a very intriguing prospect, with outstanding NFL measureables and a great nose for running the ball, as shown by his break-every-record collegiate career in canada. He wasnt even INVITED to the NFL combine this year, but did get in the east-west shrine game and might get an invite yet because he was the best back on the field - with 5 carries for 41 yards and 3 catches for 23. Ryan Moats was impressed and said "Football in China is the same as football in Canada and the U.S., if you're a player, it doesn't matter where you're from." Lumsden is a feel good story who has a lot people rooting for him, but remember that he would probably be a CFL superstar, and if he doesnt get drafted, i would expect him to go back. If he does end up in an NFL camp, he could be one of the best longshot stories the NFL has ever seen, because he has the tools be not just good, but great.

GBN report is all over this guy, which stands to reason. Very interesting prospect.

 

[Bloom]

You know what I find amusing....Walter Reyes is nowhere to be found. The guy was rated a top five RB prospect by some after his junior year. Now, after not quite going out on top his senior year, this guy is continually left out of the mix. He can play. A guy doesn't make All American teams then suddenly forget how to play as a senior. Someone will be getting a steal in the draft.

reyes was in my original post:reyes is well-rounded and has a 5th gear(4.36), but a little smallish at 5'10 210, and he plays even smaller - doesnt run with power and authority, which you have to do in the NFL. unlike purify and herron, reyes could become a solid #1 RB if he bulks up a little and learns how to run stronger while preserving that track speed. i'm going to wrap up my initial research with a few notes on those i didnt profile in detail.a little more on reyes:Great receiver.Coming off torn muscles in shoulder that were reinjured in a bowl game - very important to see how that shoulder checks out. Projects as a 3rd down/change of pace guy unless he bulks up and learns to run more powerfully. Im worried that he didnt produce this season because less talented backs like damien rhodes and even converted DB diamond ferri did behind that line. I would rank reyes in about the 18-20 range among rookie RBs right now, good enough for a dynasty pick in the 30s.

 

[Man in the yellow hat]

You know what I find amusing....Walter Reyes is nowhere to be found. The guy was rated a top five RB prospect by some after his junior year. Now, after not quite going out on top his senior year, this guy is continually left out of the mix. He can play. A guy doesn't make All American teams then suddenly forget how to play as a senior. Someone will be getting a steal in the draft.

reyes was in my original post:reyes is well-rounded and has a 5th gear(4.36), but a little smallish at 5'10 210, and he plays even smaller - doesnt run with power and authority, which you have to do in the NFL. unlike purify and herron, reyes could become a solid #1 RB if he bulks up a little and learns how to run stronger while preserving that track speed. i'm going to wrap up my initial research with a few notes on those i didnt profile in detail.a little more on reyes:Great receiver.Coming off torn muscles in shoulder that were reinjured in a bowl game - very important to see how that shoulder checks out. Projects as a 3rd down/change of pace guy unless he bulks up and learns to run more powerfully. Im worried that he didnt produce this season because less talented backs like damien rhodes and even converted DB diamond ferri did behind that line. I would rank reyes in about the 18-20 range among rookie RBs right now, good enough for a dynasty pick in the 30s.

Sorry, didn't see anything in the original.The shoulder injury is a concern, no doubt. I guess I'll disagree on the running with power thing. I haven' seen a lot of him live, but he stuck it in the end zone on a very consistent basis, and everything I've heard points to him being good in short yardage situations. We'll see I guess. A bad senior year, yes. But, he was injured. A shoulder injury for a running back affects your power and how you finish plays. I think the guy will be a steal. His size and receiving ability remind me a bit of some other guys who were deemed not good enough for feature backs...including Dom Davis and Mewelde Moore.Oh, and an interesting article. http://www.collegesports.com/sports/m-foot.../120904aaa.htmlThe fact that Reyes was a legit Heisman Trophy candidate heading into the season speaks volumes. Honestly, Syracuse isn't an offensive power house, and he surely could've used some help.

 

[Bloom]

You know what I find amusing....Walter Reyes is nowhere to be found. The guy was rated a top five RB prospect by some after his junior year. Now, after not quite going out on top his senior year, this guy is continually left out of the mix. He can play. A guy doesn't make All American teams then suddenly forget how to play as a senior. Someone will be getting a steal in the draft.

reyes was in my original post:reyes is well-rounded and has a 5th gear(4.36), but a little smallish at 5'10 210, and he plays even smaller - doesnt run with power and authority, which you have to do in the NFL. unlike purify and herron, reyes could become a solid #1 RB if he bulks up a little and learns how to run stronger while preserving that track speed. i'm going to wrap up my initial research with a few notes on those i didnt profile in detail.a little more on reyes:Great receiver.Coming off torn muscles in shoulder that were reinjured in a bowl game - very important to see how that shoulder checks out. Projects as a 3rd down/change of pace guy unless he bulks up and learns to run more powerfully. Im worried that he didnt produce this season because less talented backs like damien rhodes and even converted DB diamond ferri did behind that line. I would rank reyes in about the 18-20 range among rookie RBs right now, good enough for a dynasty pick in the 30s.

Sorry, didn't see anything in the original.The shoulder injury is a concern, no doubt. I guess I'll disagree on the running with power thing. I haven' seen a lot of him live, but he stuck it in the end zone on a very consistent basis, and everything I've heard points to him being good in short yardage situations. We'll see I guess. A bad senior year, yes. But, he was injured. A shoulder injury for a running back affects your power and how you finish plays. I think the guy will be a steal. His size and receiving ability remind me a bit of some other guys who were deemed not good enough for feature backs...including Dom Davis and Mewelde Moore.

i agree that he's done well in goal-to-go situations over his career, but this year he took a big step back and seemed to run with much less authority, breaking few tackles and not taking over games like he did in his junior year.

 

[Bloom]

some other names to know, write up more when i get time:Alvin Pearman, Virginia - one of the best pass catching RBs and carried the load at virginia despite being only one year removed from an ACL tearDeWhitt Betterson, Troy - projects as a workhorse. impressed at the hula bowl, but small school questionsDerrick Wimbush, Ft Valley St. - rocked the hula bowl with 4 carries for 74 yards. good size/speed combo, again small school questions.Marvin Townes, East Carolina - very fast, will get some consideration because of that.Decori Birmingham, Arkansas - converted WR who is still learning the position, could be an excellent NFL 3rd down back

 

[Bloom]

bump to add news from the combine as it comes in.

 

[JAA]

here's who i am still planning on writing up:

Ryan Moats, Louisiana Tech

Darren Sproles, Kansas State

Brandon Jacobs, Southern Illinois

Damien Nash, Missouri

Maurice Clarett, former The Ohio State University

Lionel Gates, Louisville

Anthony Davis, Wisconsin

Nehemiah Broughton, The Citadel

I also might expand a little on the short blurbs i wrote on Herron, Grant, Reyes, and Purify.

Are there any other 2nd day/FA guys that anyone is curious about?

Has MClarrett been covered?

 

[Bloom]

here's who i am still planning on writing up:

Ryan Moats, Louisiana Tech

Darren Sproles, Kansas State

Brandon Jacobs, Southern Illinois

Damien Nash, Missouri

Maurice Clarett, former The Ohio State University

Lionel Gates, Louisville

Anthony Davis, Wisconsin

Nehemiah Broughton, The Citadel

I also might expand a little on the short blurbs i wrote on Herron, Grant, Reyes, and Purify.

Are there any other 2nd day/FA guys that anyone is curious about?

Has MClarrett been covered?

yep, about 25 posts up.