Ray Rice running sub 4.4 in the 40 in speed camp? (1 Viewer)

[super sleeper]

Even though I'm a big time RU guy, I take this timing with a grain of salt. I'm assuming it's hand-timed, possibly wind-aided. Even the article doesn't quite say he ran a 4.38. But alot of people here think he's going to clock 4.5-4.6 and I don't think that's the case.

What would a sub 4.4 do to his ranking? He could run a 4.25 but to me, there will still be lots of tape of him getting caught from behind by defensive backs. But Scouts love those speed numbers.

But the speed issue continues to nag at NFL folks, especially considering Rice's size. It's no longer a concern to Bill Parisi, though. The owner of the Parisi Speed School -- which has 20 players working out in advance of the Combine -- has personally helped Rice improve his technique for the all-important drill.

"I believe they are going to be surprised," he said of NFL scouts.

Rice ran the 40 recently under Parisi's supervision, and neither one wanted to reveal what the time was "because we want to surprise everyone," Rice said.

When Rice was shown a number on a notepad that someone had been told, a 4.38 for his most recent 40 try, Rice smiled.

"That's pretty darn close," he said.

http://www.nj.com/rutgersfootball/index.ss...his_skills.html

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

a time around 4.4 should cement him in the 2nd. Its going to be hard for him to get into the first unless we see more than 3 teams willing to spend their first on an RB, which is rare. Charles is also going to run a great time, so he might entice the team willing to reach for a pure speed back.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Good year to get a good back.

Could be bad news for McFadden as the top 5-ish teams may decide to wait until the 2nd to take a back and focus somewhere other than RB in the 1st.

 

[FUBAR]

I like Rice, but teams won't be drafting him for his speed even if he runs in the high 4.3's.

Bloom's probably right, but I'd be looking late 2nd, if Seattle doesn't grab a RB in round 1, Rice may find his way to the great northwest pick #55.

ETA: he would look pretty good to Atlanta too.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I like Rice, but teams won't be drafting him for his speed even if he runs in the high 4.3's.

Bloom's probably right, but I'd be looking late 2nd, if Seattle doesn't grab a RB in round 1, Rice may find his way to the great northwest pick #55.

ETA: he would look pretty good to Atlanta too.

Exactly what I was thinking.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

If he runs sub 4.5 I will be surprized.

 

[twitch]

This is an unbelievable year for backs. Rice running 4.4s would have to get him somewhere in the top 2 rounds. But the question is, how much weight has he lost to get that speed? his size is factoring into his draft status as much as his speed. But personally, I have no problem with his height or his build. The kid runs low and with authority and shows the sharp vision. He may be the classic 'chip on the shoulder' back like so many others before him. But he really fits the mold of the modern committee, role player type player. Apparent limitations that should be paired with a guy with a slightly different skill set. He's gonna be a solid player somewhere.

 

[Chaos Commish]

If he runs sub 4.5 I will be surprized.

I've expected sub 4.45 from Rice all along. The body fat thing and getting under 200 pounds could have him really moving in a sprint. He is amazingly quick, so if he nails the start a great time can be had. His three cone will probably be goofy quick. B Leonard clued us in to his quickness last year calling Rice the quickest human he'd ever seen on either side of the field. He posted some incredible numbers coming out of high school in the short shuttle and three cone.

 

[Balco]

Ray Rice's skills probably translate to the pros better than any other back coming out. He is going to be a workhorse at the next level.

 

[Jeff Haseley]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

 

[Wildman]

Ray Rice's skills probably translate to the pros better than any other back coming out. He is going to be a workhorse at the next level.

 

[super sleeper]

This is an unbelievable year for backs. Rice running 4.4s would have to get him somewhere in the top 2 rounds. But the question is, how much weight has he lost to get that speed? his size is factoring into his draft status as much as his speed. But personally, I have no problem with his height or his build. The kid runs low and with authority and shows the sharp vision. He may be the classic 'chip on the shoulder' back like so many others before him. But he really fits the mold of the modern committee, role player type player. Apparent limitations that should be paired with a guy with a slightly different skill set. He's gonna be a solid player somewhere.

The article I referenced says he is down to 199 and 8 percent body fat after playing at 205/14%. There is alot of discussion on the Rutgers football boards about Rice's combine numbers and how they will affect his draft status. I'm in the camp of those that believe that good combines for guys like Rice and Charles won't necessarily improve their stock beyond mid to late-second status, but it will affect Stewart, Mendenhall, Jones in that teams will feel they can wait a bit to grab a good RB.

 

[higgins]

 

[Cookiemonster]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

DAMN!! Now there's now way he falls to my pick!

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

 

[Jeff Haseley]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall2. Felix Jones3. Ray Rice4. Darren McFaddenBut this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

 

[redman]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Oklahoma ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall2. Felix Jones3. Ray Rice4. Darren McFaddenBut this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - I think Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones Drew, without the pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I think you mean "Arkansas", not "Oklahoma".Why is everyone so high on Felix Jones? I've watched film on him and the dude's running through holes I could drive a truck through. You never see him break tackles. And where's Stewart on that list?

 

[prymetyme25]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Oklahoma ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall2. Felix Jones3. Ray Rice4. Darren McFaddenBut this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - I think Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones Drew, without the pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

It's actually Arkansas but the two teams do look eerily similar and so does DMC and AP.

 

[Jeff Haseley]

Yes, I meant Arkansas. Fixed

 

[Jeff Haseley]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Oklahoma ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - I think Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones Drew, without the pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I think you mean "Arkansas", not "Oklahoma".Why is everyone so high on Felix Jones? I've watched film on him and the dude's running through holes I could drive a truck through. You never see him break tackles.

And where's Stewart on that list?

Felix Jones will be the better RB from Arkansas when it's all said and done and it won't be close. Jones YPC in his three years in college was 6.3, 7.6 and 8.7. In the SEC no less. That will translate to the next level. As for Jonathan Stewart - I have him ranked 5th right now, but I'll probably slide McFadden down to 5th and move Stewart up. Stewart is unique in that, for a back his size of 230-235 lbs, he still has excellent quickness and hops to go along with great size for a back that will fight for yards - and win most of those battles. Draft rankings - offense

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall2. Felix Jones3. Ray Rice4. Darren McFaddenBut this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

Jeff, I'm a fan of your opinion most times, but I don't see MJD and Ray Rice as the same type of back at all.MJD is great in open space and is very elusive. He's been used as a kick returner for his burst and quickness.Ray Rice and "natural pass catching ability" just don't go together. I'm not sure where you've seen him as a great receiver, but he caught just 25 balls last year, after catching 8 in 2005 and 4 in 2006. Granted Brian Leonard was there in 05 and 06, but Rice hasn't been viewed as speed guy to use on screens or get him the ball in the flat so he can make somebody miss. He runs people over.I still like him, but I don't see that comparison.

 

[DawnBTVS]

Here's a question...

If he does flash 4.40 speed "after training" for the 40 yard dash, will that translate to field speed too?

My concern is that he'd run in the 4.40-4.45 range but it won't translate to the field where he'll show 4.45-4.50 speed.

 

[redman]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Oklahoma ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - I think Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones Drew, without the pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I think you mean "Arkansas", not "Oklahoma".Why is everyone so high on Felix Jones? I've watched film on him and the dude's running through holes I could drive a truck through. You never see him break tackles.

And where's Stewart on that list?

Felix Jones will be the better RB from Arkansas when it's all said and done and it won't be close. Jones YPC in his three years in college was 6.3, 7.6 and 8.7. In the SEC no less. That will translate to the next level. As for Jonathan Stewart - I have him ranked 5th right now, but I'll probably slide McFadden down to 5th and move Stewart up. Stewart is unique in that, for a back his size of 230-235 lbs, he still has excellent quickness and hops to go along with great size for a back that will fight for yards - and win most of those battles. Draft rankings - offense

Have you normalized your comparison between McFadden and Jones to account for down and distance, and game situation? Jones obviously has the speed, but my direct observation of his runs has not shown me that he's been tested at all when it comes to running inside or breaking tackles, precisely the kinds of issues that have you doubting McFadden.

 

[Jeff Haseley]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

Jeff, I'm a fan of your opinion most times, but I don't see MJD and Ray Rice as the same type of back at all.MJD is great in open space and is very elusive. He's been used as a kick returner for his burst and quickness.

Ray Rice and "natural pass catching ability" just don't go together. I'm not sure where you've seen him as a great receiver, but he caught just 25 balls last year, after catching 8 in 2005 and 4 in 2006. Granted Brian Leonard was there in 05 and 06, but Rice hasn't been viewed as speed guy to use on screens or get him the ball in the flat so he can make somebody miss. He runs people over.

I still like him, but I don't see that comparison.

Jeff...I said he reminds me of MJD without the natural pass catching ability.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

Jeff, I'm a fan of your opinion most times, but I don't see MJD and Ray Rice as the same type of back at all.MJD is great in open space and is very elusive. He's been used as a kick returner for his burst and quickness.

Ray Rice and "natural pass catching ability" just don't go together. I'm not sure where you've seen him as a great receiver, but he caught just 25 balls last year, after catching 8 in 2005 and 4 in 2006. Granted Brian Leonard was there in 05 and 06, but Rice hasn't been viewed as speed guy to use on screens or get him the ball in the flat so he can make somebody miss. He runs people over.

I still like him, but I don't see that comparison.

Jeff...I said he reminds me of MJD without the natural pass catching ability.

Whoops. Then we agree there. Still, MJD is far more elusive than Ray Rice.

 

[prymetyme25]

Here's a question...If he does flash 4.40 speed "after training" for the 40 yard dash, will that translate to field speed too?My concern is that he'd run in the 4.40-4.45 range but it won't translate to the field where he'll show 4.45-4.50 speed.

I believe a guy like Rice will never run his flat speed in a game because of his lateral quickness, meaning until he is in open space he'll never open it up. But he'll more than make up for it with shiftyness and moves. To put it in simple terms I dont think a runner like Rice would really even need to run a 4.40 with his particular style.

 

[Poppa]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

Jeff, I'm a fan of your opinion most times, but I don't see MJD and Ray Rice as the same type of back at all.MJD is great in open space and is very elusive. He's been used as a kick returner for his burst and quickness.

Ray Rice and "natural pass catching ability" just don't go together. I'm not sure where you've seen him as a great receiver, but he caught just 25 balls last year, after catching 8 in 2005 and 4 in 2006. Granted Brian Leonard was there in 05 and 06, but Rice hasn't been viewed as speed guy to use on screens or get him the ball in the flat so he can make somebody miss. He runs people over.

I still like him, but I don't see that comparison.

Jeff...I said he reminds me of MJD without the natural pass catching ability.

Whoops. Then we agree there. Still, MJD is far more elusive than Ray Rice.

:X

 

[Balco]

Here's a question...If he does flash 4.40 speed "after training" for the 40 yard dash, will that translate to field speed too?My concern is that he'd run in the 4.40-4.45 range but it won't translate to the field where he'll show 4.45-4.50 speed.

I believe a guy like Rice will never run his flat speed in a game because of his lateral quickness, meaning until he is in open space he'll never open it up. But he'll more than make up for it with shiftyness and moves. To put it in simple terms I dont think a runner like Rice would really even need to run a 4.40 with his particular style.

You are correct. He has very good vision, but no wasted motion. He is excellent running between the tackles, and he has tremendous lower body strength. If you don't square up on him, you will slide off. If he ran a 4.5 it would not change my opinion of him. He is going to be a great back in the NFL.

 

[kremenull]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I'm curious to know where all you guys had McFadden ranked previously, even about a month ago. It just seems odd that all of a sudden, he's like the 3rd, 4th best RB prospect...........When (and how) did this happen?......

 

[Rodeojones]

.

 

[EBF]

I like Rice, but I'll be shocked if he runs a 4.3. He looks like a high 4.4 guy at best.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I'm curious to know where all you guys had McFadden ranked previously, even about a month ago. It just seems odd that all of a sudden, he's like the 3rd, 4th best RB prospect...........When (and how) did this happen?......

Mike Mayock.Basically said he goes down on first contact and has a small lower body.

 

[EBF]

There have been a few McFadden "haters" for months. I've always pointed out his lack of lower body bulk and how his build/running style don't seem like they'll translate seamlessly to the pro game. If his listed height/weight of 6'2"/205 pounds is accurate then there isn't a top 20 RB in the NFL with a BMI as low as McFadden's.

It's going to be a good debate in the next few months.

 

[kremenull]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I'm curious to know where all you guys had McFadden ranked previously, even about a month ago. It just seems odd that all of a sudden, he's like the 3rd, 4th best RB prospect...........When (and how) did this happen?......

Mike Mayock.Basically said he goes down on first contact and has a small lower body.

Yeah, but I've never seen anyone's rankings in here list McFadden at #4......I didn't know that Mayock had such a hold on you all.......Sure, I think he (Mayock) is an excellent Draft analyst, and he points out the weaknesses that most all prospects have, but every prospect has something that he must improve upon........I'm wondering if many people have looked into some of the Sophomore tape of McFadden, as maybe there could be more to the story if we take a closer look.......Personally, I saw quite a few more inside runs from him during that year.Anyway, I still rank McFadden as the clear #1 RB.....we'll see

 

[Wu-banger]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Arkansas ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones-Drew, without the natural pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I'm curious to know where all you guys had McFadden ranked previously, even about a month ago. It just seems odd that all of a sudden, he's like the 3rd, 4th best RB prospect...........When (and how) did this happen?......

Mike Mayock.Basically said he goes down on first contact and has a small lower body.

that is going to hurt his draft stock with the ladies...... and Maycock knows wwaaaaaaay too much about McFadden.

 

[super sleeper]

I think the knock on Rice's pass-catching ability is overblown. He had Brian Leonard catching passes out of the backfield for two years, and then last season, Rutgers had two 1000 yard receivers, a pass-catching TE, and a 3rd down possession receiver all sharing catches. He just hasn't been asked to catch the ball much in the Rutgers offense. Having said that, his stats compare favorably to all the top RBs in this years draft as far as number of catches, yards, and YPC. And don't tell me it's only one year. Mendenhall's entire draft stock is based on one year. Rice's deficiencies in the passing game is mostly perception.

As far as elusiveness is concerned, not only is Rice very elusive, he has a devastating stiff-arm and avoids direct contact better than any RB in the draft. Watch highlights of Maurice Jones-Drew and then switch over to Rice. The comparison in style of running and body-type is almost eery. And Jones-Drew is far from the burner people here seem to make him out to be. I see plenty of open-field runs where he gets caught from behind by DBs, and he supposedly ran a 4.4 at the combines.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I think the knock on Rice's pass-catching ability is overblown. He had Brian Leonard catching passes out of the backfield for two years, and then last season, Rutgers had two 1000 yard receivers, a pass-catching TE, and a 3rd down possession receiver all sharing catches. He just hasn't been asked to catch the ball much in the Rutgers offense. Having said that, his stats compare favorably to all the top RBs in this years draft as far as number of catches, yards, and YPC. And don't tell me it's only one year. Mendenhall's entire draft stock is based on one year. Rice's deficiencies in the passing game is mostly perception.As far as elusiveness is concerned, not only is Rice very elusive, he has a devastating stiff-arm and avoids direct contact better than any RB in the draft. Watch highlights of Maurice Jones-Drew and then switch over to Rice. The comparison in style of running and body-type is almost eery. And Jones-Drew is far from the burner people here seem to make him out to be. I see plenty of open-field runs where he gets caught from behind by DBs, and he supposedly ran a 4.4 at the combines.

I agree with the last part (getting caught from behind).Yes he has a good stiff arm. But how many times on highlight reels does he break down a MLB or S and make them miss?Most of his highlights come on hard runs between the tackles or gaping holes.I'm not trying to shoot Ray Rice down - far from it, I like the kid - but to say he's going to be breaking ankles in the NFL just isn't correct.

 

[AllVolUT]

I've got Rice ranked ahead of McFadden

I like Rice, but that seems a bit much.

While I really like Rice, it's more about how I just don't see McFadden being the same player in the pros as he was in college. Oklahoma ran an awful lot of sweeps and tosses and that's where McFadden really thrived. NFL defenses with their team speed at OLB and DE for that matter, won't allow that to happen. Unless he learns how to lower his body and center of gravity as he runs between the tackles, I honestly don't see "Run DMC" making that big of an impact at the next level. His height and running style reminds me of Chris Brown and we all know how injury prone Chris Brown has been in his NFL tenure. Based on my opinion I probably have him ranked too high (4th) as it is among RBs eligible in the 2008 Draft - but that's just my take. 1. Rashard Mendenhall

2. Felix Jones

3. Ray Rice

4. Darren McFadden

But this isn't about McFadden, this is about Rice. I've said this before, but was ridiculed for my comment - I think Rice reminds me of Maurice Jones Drew, without the pass catching ability. In fact, I'll go as far as say that Rice is a better runner than Jones-Drew. It will be interesting to see what team winds up with Rice. That will tell a lot about his chances next year and years to come.

I think you mean "Arkansas", not "Oklahoma".Why is everyone so high on Felix Jones? I've watched film on him and the dude's running through holes I could drive a truck through. You never see him break tackles.

And where's Stewart on that list?

Felix Jones will be the better RB from Arkansas when it's all said and done and it won't be close. Jones YPC in his three years in college was 6.3, 7.6 and 8.7. In the SEC no less. That will translate to the next level. As for Jonathan Stewart - I have him ranked 5th right now, but I'll probably slide McFadden down to 5th and move Stewart up. Stewart is unique in that, for a back his size of 230-235 lbs, he still has excellent quickness and hops to go along with great size for a back that will fight for yards - and win most of those battles. Draft rankings - offense

Have you normalized your comparison between McFadden and Jones to account for down and distance, and game situation? Jones obviously has the speed, but my direct observation of his runs has not shown me that he's been tested at all when it comes to running inside or breaking tackles, precisely the kinds of issues that have you doubting McFadden.

Very . IIRC, game situation/play-calls greatly exaggerated Jones' YPC - even moreso than DMAC.

 

[JAA]

Ive watched Rice a lot. He is not a 4.4 or sub 4.4 guy. My uneducated opinion would be no better than 4.45

 

[Balco]

I think the knock on Rice's pass-catching ability is overblown. He had Brian Leonard catching passes out of the backfield for two years, and then last season, Rutgers had two 1000 yard receivers, a pass-catching TE, and a 3rd down possession receiver all sharing catches. He just hasn't been asked to catch the ball much in the Rutgers offense. Having said that, his stats compare favorably to all the top RBs in this years draft as far as number of catches, yards, and YPC. And don't tell me it's only one year. Mendenhall's entire draft stock is based on one year. Rice's deficiencies in the passing game is mostly perception.As far as elusiveness is concerned, not only is Rice very elusive, he has a devastating stiff-arm and avoids direct contact better than any RB in the draft. Watch highlights of Maurice Jones-Drew and then switch over to Rice. The comparison in style of running and body-type is almost eery. And Jones-Drew is far from the burner people here seem to make him out to be. I see plenty of open-field runs where he gets caught from behind by DBs, and he supposedly ran a 4.4 at the combines.

I agree with the last part (getting caught from behind).Yes he has a good stiff arm. But how many times on highlight reels does he break down a MLB or S and make them miss?Most of his highlights come on hard runs between the tackles or gaping holes.I'm not trying to shoot Ray Rice down - far from it, I like the kid - but to say he's going to be breaking ankles in the NFL just isn't correct.

Definitely isn't an ankle breaker, but he has made many a nice run up the middle with only a small crease. And he maximizes the yards he gains inside.

 

[massraider]

Ive watched Rice a lot. He is not a 4.4 or sub 4.4 guy. My uneducated opinion would be no better than 4.45

Even if he runs a 4.4 or lower, he doesn't play that fast. He might lose weight in the offseason, and have perfect 40 yard dash technique, but when the pads get put on, he's not outrunning NFL cornerbacks.

 

[Balco]

Ive watched Rice a lot. He is not a 4.4 or sub 4.4 guy. My uneducated opinion would be no better than 4.45

Even if he runs a 4.4 or lower, he doesn't play that fast. He might lose weight in the offseason, and have perfect 40 yard dash technique, but when the pads get put on, he's not outrunning NFL cornerbacks.

And that in no way means he is not a 1st round pick, or that he won't have a very good NFL career.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I think the knock on Rice's pass-catching ability is overblown. He had Brian Leonard catching passes out of the backfield for two years, and then last season, Rutgers had two 1000 yard receivers, a pass-catching TE, and a 3rd down possession receiver all sharing catches. He just hasn't been asked to catch the ball much in the Rutgers offense. Having said that, his stats compare favorably to all the top RBs in this years draft as far as number of catches, yards, and YPC. And don't tell me it's only one year. Mendenhall's entire draft stock is based on one year. Rice's deficiencies in the passing game is mostly perception.As far as elusiveness is concerned, not only is Rice very elusive, he has a devastating stiff-arm and avoids direct contact better than any RB in the draft. Watch highlights of Maurice Jones-Drew and then switch over to Rice. The comparison in style of running and body-type is almost eery. And Jones-Drew is far from the burner people here seem to make him out to be. I see plenty of open-field runs where he gets caught from behind by DBs, and he supposedly ran a 4.4 at the combines.

I agree with the last part (getting caught from behind).Yes he has a good stiff arm. But how many times on highlight reels does he break down a MLB or S and make them miss?Most of his highlights come on hard runs between the tackles or gaping holes.I'm not trying to shoot Ray Rice down - far from it, I like the kid - but to say he's going to be breaking ankles in the NFL just isn't correct.

Definitely isn't an ankle breaker, but he has made many a nice run up the middle with only a small crease. And he maximizes the yards he gains inside.

Agreed.To be clear, I don't get to watch a ton of college, but I've seen more than my fair share of Rutgers and Va Tech players - the two teams I follow the most - and I think he's a 2nd round draft pick that will perform well at the next level, if he has a good O-line. If not, I think he's going to have trouble (or quickly be dismissed as a mediocre back).

 

[massraider]

Ive watched Rice a lot. He is not a 4.4 or sub 4.4 guy. My uneducated opinion would be no better than 4.45

Even if he runs a 4.4 or lower, he doesn't play that fast. He might lose weight in the offseason, and have perfect 40 yard dash technique, but when the pads get put on, he's not outrunning NFL cornerbacks.

And that in no way means he is not a 1st round pick, or that he won't have a very good NFL career.

Not at all. But the scouts have seen enough film on him to know he's not a burner. I doubt he passes one of the big three, so I doubt he's a 1st round pick.

 

[JAA]

Ive watched Rice a lot. He is not a 4.4 or sub 4.4 guy. My uneducated opinion would be no better than 4.45

Even if he runs a 4.4 or lower, he doesn't play that fast. He might lose weight in the offseason, and have perfect 40 yard dash technique, but when the pads get put on, he's not outrunning NFL cornerbacks.

And that in no way means he is not a 1st round pick, or that he won't have a very good NFL career.

Not at all. But the scouts have seen enough film on him to know he's not a burner. I doubt he passes one of the big three, so I doubt he's a 1st round pick.

I like Rice a lot. Rice's game is not speed. Rice is a ginder. I think hey will have a MJD type of career beginning.

 

[Duke1948]

Ive watched Rice a lot. He is not a 4.4 or sub 4.4 guy. My uneducated opinion would be no better than 4.45

Even if he runs a 4.4 or lower, he doesn't play that fast. He might lose weight in the offseason, and have perfect 40 yard dash technique, but when the pads get put on, he's not outrunning NFL cornerbacks.

there are not many backs that outrun DBs, as they are generally the fast on your team.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Ive watched Rice a lot. He is not a 4.4 or sub 4.4 guy. My uneducated opinion would be no better than 4.45

Even if he runs a 4.4 or lower, he doesn't play that fast. He might lose weight in the offseason, and have perfect 40 yard dash technique, but when the pads get put on, he's not outrunning NFL cornerbacks.

there are not many backs that outrun DBs, as they are generally the fast on your team.

Out running vs getting caught from behind is different IMO. Out running is they are flat out faster than the DB....which sometimes they are, but rarely. However getting caught from behind is more due to angles. Like MJD does very well taking angles to beat DB's.

 

[Chase Stuart]

Here's a question...If he does flash 4.40 speed "after training" for the 40 yard dash, will that translate to field speed too?My concern is that he'd run in the 4.40-4.45 range but it won't translate to the field where he'll show 4.45-4.50 speed.

Do you really think anyone can spot with the naked eye a difference of 0.05 seconds over 40 yards? We're talking about one guy running 120 feet and one guy running 118 and a half feet.

 

[Chase Stuart]

There have been a few McFadden "haters" for months. I've always pointed out his lack of lower body bulk and how his build/running style don't seem like they'll translate seamlessly to the pro game. If his listed height/weight of 6'2"/205 pounds is accurate then there isn't a top 20 RB in the NFL with a BMI as low as McFadden's.

It's going to be a good debate in the next few months.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/blog/?p=489

 

[massraider]

There have been a few McFadden "haters" for months. I've always pointed out his lack of lower body bulk and how his build/running style don't seem like they'll translate seamlessly to the pro game. If his listed height/weight of 6'2"/205 pounds is accurate then there isn't a top 20 RB in the NFL with a BMI as low as McFadden's.

It's going to be a good debate in the next few months.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/blog/?p=489

That was a good read.