Stepfan Taylor - AZ Rb (1 Viewer)

[ldizzle]

Just wanted to let you guys know that I read that he is practicing with the 1s because williams and mendy are already battling injuries. Here is some info I found on an az blog

Stepfan Taylor Adds Speed to Arizona Cardinals Offense

July 22nd, 2013 at 6:39 AM By Steve SmithYou know the old saying you can't teach speed.The Arizona Cardinals really struggled with their rushing attack during the 2012 NFL campaign. They took a step towards rectifying that issue by drafting running back Stepfan Taylor of Stanford with their fifth round draft choice (140th overall) in this year's NFL Draft. He should add a dynamic, speedy dimension to Arizona's offensive scheme under new head coach Bruce Arians.Let's take a look at his strengths and weaknesses via nfl.com:

Strengths Presents a thick overall build and good forward lean, making him a tough north-south runner to stop with an arm tackle. Running hard is never an issue, as defensive backs often find when trying to wrap him up. Flashes good quickness to offset before getting his body moving forward to receive the handoff, as well as enough burst to hit an open hole in a hurry. Possesses the vision and just enough speed to take advantage of an opening off-tackle if the inside gap is filled. Adjusts well to throws with his back to the quarterback and possesses the quickness and bullish running/stiff arm to beat defenders on the outside. Also displays good technique and skill in pass protection.

Weaknesses Less than average long speed won?t allow him to be a breakaway threat at the next level. Not quick enough to take plays to the sidelines or cut inside an oncoming defender once outside the tackles. Dances a bit inside when anticipating contact, too, throwing himself off balance. Doesn't show tremendous explosiveness while still behind the line of scrimmage. Fails to consistently keep his legs moving upon contact with lineman and linebackers.

NFL Comparison Chester Taylor.Bottom Line The Stanford University running back proved last season that he was capable of maintaining his level of play even without Andrew Luck at QB. While he isn't exceptional in any one facet of the game, he is technically sound, and well rounded. Taylor is possibly the safest back in this class due to his ability to not only pass protect, but to catch the football, which will make him invaluable on third downs.

Also found out why he had a slow 40 from nfldraftscouts

03/28/13 - 2013 Stanford Pro Day: Stepfan Taylor, RB (5-9 1/8, 213) - Taylor ran the 40 in 4.63 and 4.69 seconds. He had a 31-inch vertical jump and did 19 lifts of 225 pounds on the bench press. His 40 time was better than what he ran at the combine (officially 4.76 seconds), since he ran on a sprained ankle while in Indianapolis. Taylor is an explosive runner and also catches the ball extremely well. - Gil Brandt, NFL.com

 

[Dr. Octopus]

Stephen Taylor = speed?

Is this opposite day?

 

[Shutout]

He's emmitt smith fast meaning everyone calls him slow but he plays just fine

 

[ROYALWITCHEESE]

Stephen Taylor = speed?

Is this opposite day?

Dude doesn't have breakaway speed, but he's not slow. Doesn't seem to go down easily either. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_00ziPxn0Os

. I've watched his highlights. S.l.o.w.

Ellington is faster.

 

[ldizzle]

Stephen Taylor = speed?

Is this opposite day?

Dude doesn't have breakaway speed, but he's not slow. Doesn't seem to go down easily either. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_00ziPxn0Os

. I've watched his highlights. S.l.o.w.

Ellington is faster.

Lol thanks for the input. I figured as much. If mendy and williams cant go, I wonder if they bring in a guy like mcgahee, or roll with the rooks.Edit: he isnt a world beater, but he looks tough to bring down, can pass protect, and cstch outta the backfield. So who knows

 

[ROYALWITCHEESE]

Stephen Taylor = speed?

Is this opposite day?

Dude doesn't have breakaway speed, but he's not slow. Doesn't seem to go down easily either. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_00ziPxn0Os

. I've watched his highlights. S.l.o.w.

Ellington is faster.

Lol thanks for the input. I figured as much. If mendy and williams cant go, I wonder if they bring in a guy like mcgahee, or roll with the rooks.

I think they would go with a mixture of the rooks. I think Mendy will be in and out if the lineup all year with injuries. So we may just see.

 

[ConnSKINS26]

Stephen Taylor = speed?

Is this opposite day?

Dude doesn't have breakaway speed, but he's not slow. Doesn't seem to go down easily either. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_00ziPxn0Os

. I've watched his highlights. S.l.o.w.

Ellington is faster.

Of course he is. One of the things Ellington was known for coming out was his speed, but he did time slower than expected.

 

[DawnBTVS]

I really, really like Stepfan Taylor. He reminded me of Arian Foster a lot (when Foster came out of Tennesseee). Foster himself ran in that 4.6-4.7 range and looked "slow" even on his highlights at Tennessee. Obviously he turned into a stud.

- Not explosive or "fast" in the conventional sense but was fast enough to still out run defenders for long TD runs. He won't be a consistent game breaker ala Chris Johnson but he has the potential to make those 30-40 yard big runs at the NFL level IMO.

- He runs tough and doesn't go down easily. I'll take this type of running style over pure speed any given day. Takes on contact and generally maintains his balance.

- He lacks wiggle but has just enough to make a defender miss. Not fancy but sometimes all you need is the defender to take a step right or left to whiff an arm tackle.

 

[squistion]

Interesting discussion of Taylor and his strengths and weaknesses, below are the knocks this writer has against him:

http://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2013/7/26/4559022/3-strengths-of-arizona-cardinals-rookie-rb-stepfan-taylor

There are some concerns with Taylor, and the one that is overwhelming is his lack of short area quickness or burst.

You see when I say Taylor has great vision and patience, it's almost out of the fact that Taylor doesn't have an explosiveness that allows him to get to and through holes that guys like Ellington, Mendenhall and others do.

From the time Taylor takes the handoff from the quarterback to whenever he gets tackled by a defender he is moving at almost the same speed, obviously as he gets deeper into his carry he gains speed, but you get the analogy.

The issue becomes when Taylor sees cutback lanes, or tries to bounce things outside, because he doesn't have the extra gear to get there, causing a lot of short and no gain type of plays.

Taylor also lacks some wiggle to his game, as he struggles to make the first man through miss or extend plays when in the open field.

The other issue is that Taylor can sometimes be too patient, waiting to long for a crease to develop, or dancing in the hole when he has to meet a defender head up.

What I love about Taylor's game is his smoothness and just the way it looks like he understands how to run the football.

He looks really comfortable and natural as a runner, but his physical make up may not lend itself to him becoming anything more than a quality NFL back up/situational back, but for a fifth round pick, that's not necessarily a bad thing.

 

[Fiddles]

From waldman back in jan:

If I were seeking a running back, Id want one who understands how to create and eliminate angles as a blocker, receiver, and runner. Taylor can do all three. I think hes one of the safer bets for a team seeking a contributor.

http://mattwaldmanrsp.com/2013/01/07/the-boiler-room-rb-stepfan-taylor-stanford/

 

[ROYALWITCHEESE]

From waldman back in jan:

If I were seeking a running back, Id want one who understands how to create and eliminate angles as a blocker, receiver, and runner. Taylor can do all three. I think hes one of the safer bets for a team seeking a contributor.

http://mattwaldmanrsp.com/2013/01/07/the-boiler-room-rb-stepfan-taylor-stanford/

I think "contributor" is far and away different than a player who will get enough touches to start in a fantasy matchup.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

Stephen Taylor = speed?

Is this opposite day?

Dude doesn't have breakaway speed, but he's not slow. Doesn't seem to go down easily either.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_00ziPxn0Os

I actually like him, but just found it odd he was called "speedy" and the title said he "adds speed". He really isn't fast at all - but can still be an effective back on this level. He could even have some re-draft value this year with Mendy already gimpy.

 

[MAC_32]

Stepfan Taylor = Alfred Morris

The problem is Arizona doesn't have RG3.

Until Arizona has a more dynamic QB I think Ellington is the play, but come season's end I want both stashed on my roster if possible.

 

[ldizzle]

Stepfan Taylor = Alfred Morris

The problem is Arizona doesn't have RG3.

Until Arizona has a more dynamic QB I think Ellington is the play, but come season's end I want both stashed on my roster if possible.

That's true, but he did ok when rg3 wasn't on the field week 15, but lets save that for another conversation. This situation tells me 1 of 2 things. 1 is that they believe that mendy will be ready for the season and his injury is not a concern. 2 is that they believe that the rooks can shoulder the load, because they haven't brought in another veteran back. Just my opinion. If mendy is questionable going into the season, it already looks that way, I'm buying in because of the situation

 

[SammyJankis]

Cards Homer.

I think there's a lot that's right on about this thread. I've said out of the gate that Ryan Williams doesn't make this team. They wanted him to come in and show that he was hungry and wanted to be the man. (He admitted to basically running scared last season.) Instead he's been walking around on crutches, noting that doctors say his "injury just needs" rest. I can't see the Cards keeping four backs and they love both rooks. I think he's a dead man walking.

One thing you have to understand though is that Arians is huge on loyalty and also loves to run with one bell cow. He came into camp and let everyone and their brother know that Mendenhall was that guy. I was thinking the play might be to stash both rookies in dynasty leagues, but then Mendenhall has been hurt as well.

I think the move depends on the timing of your draft and on your roster size. If you have the room to do it, I would absolutely grab both Taylor and Ellington and stash them. In late drafts though, someone's stock is going to be signficantly higher, and it's likely to be Taylor. You won't be able to grab him super late if your draft is late.

I don't think Taylor has Morris potential, but I think he could be pretty solid and at his ADP you can get him for basically nothing right now. If you're interested though, keep an eye on the situation, see how Mendenhall is doing and also montior Ellington. RB is going to be a fun position to watch on this team throughout the preseason.

 

[Shanahanigans]

I really, really like Stepfan Taylor. He reminded me of Arian Foster a lot (when Foster came out of Tennesseee). Foster himself ran in that 4.6-4.7 range and looked "slow" even on his highlights at Tennessee. Obviously he turned into a stud.

- Not explosive or "fast" in the conventional sense but was fast enough to still out run defenders for long TD runs. He won't be a consistent game breaker ala Chris Johnson but he has the potential to make those 30-40 yard big runs at the NFL level IMO.

- He runs tough and doesn't go down easily. I'll take this type of running style over pure speed any given day. Takes on contact and generally maintains his balance.

- He lacks wiggle but has just enough to make a defender miss. Not fancy but sometimes all you need is the defender to take a step right or left to whiff an arm tackle.

I agree with essentially all of this. Although, I would say I really, really like the value Taylor offers at where he's getting drafted, not so much that I really, really like Taylor himself. But, the fact that you can have him 1-2 rounds later than Zac Stacy in rookie drafts, and he offers essentially the same positives and upside, I think he is a steal at this point in rookie drafts.

 

[EBF]

Taylor is sloooowwww. This can't be denied. When he gets into the open field, defenders gain ground on him in a hurry.

However, speed and quickness are two different things. And while I don't think Taylor is fast, I do think he's quick. His feet are always moving and he's able to cut on a dime to make defenders miss. A common symptom of a bad RB prospect is the inability change momentum at hard angles when running at high speeds. This type of back can get into the second level, but once they're in the open field they're unable to redirect and so they end up being involved in a lot of violent collisions in situations where a great back like Peterson, Martin, or Rice would stick his foot in the ground, change directions, and leave the defender grasping at air.

When you watch guys like Peterson and Martin, you should notice how their feet are always moving and how they're always making subtle adjustments to their trajectory to throw off the defender's angle to either avoid him completely or at least turn what would have been a vicious hit into a glancing blow. Taylor isn't the same caliber of athlete in terms of speed or explosiveness, but in a three yard window he functions pretty similarly. I think you can get a pretty good sense for his short area quickness by watching his highlight reel:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSguCSmL1nM

The goal line juke at 2:30 against Cal is a fun one. The screen pass at 3:10 is another good example of him freezing a defender with his feet. The last play on the clip at 3:55 is another one that really shows off his cutting ability. It also shows his one big flaw, as once he's in the open field he's unable to separate from the slow defensive lineman chasing him.

Anyways, the book on Taylor from the scouting community is that he's a solid and dependable runner whose game lacks flash. That probably points to a backup or spot starter career trajectory. That might be the most likely outcome, but there's enough here for me to take a chance at the low cost of a late 3rd-mid 4th round rookie pick. His game reminds me a bit of Frank Gore, Arian Foster, and Cedric Benson in the sense that his running skills are greater than the sum of his athletic parts. I can't remember a 4.7 RB ever succeeding in the NFL, but I also can't remember one ever being drafted so high. Taylor's career will be interesting to follow because he seemingly has all of the necessary ingredients to be successful besides the standout speed and measure explosiveness.

 

[Biabreakable]

I really, really like Stepfan Taylor. He reminded me of Arian Foster a lot (when Foster came out of Tennesseee). Foster himself ran in that 4.6-4.7 range and looked "slow" even on his highlights at Tennessee. Obviously he turned into a stud.

- Not explosive or "fast" in the conventional sense but was fast enough to still out run defenders for long TD runs. He won't be a consistent game breaker ala Chris Johnson but he has the potential to make those 30-40 yard big runs at the NFL level IMO.

- He runs tough and doesn't go down easily. I'll take this type of running style over pure speed any given day. Takes on contact and generally maintains his balance.

- He lacks wiggle but has just enough to make a defender miss. Not fancy but sometimes all you need is the defender to take a step right or left to whiff an arm tackle.

I agree with essentially all of this. Although, I would say I really, really like the value Taylor offers at where he's getting drafted, not so much that I really, really like Taylor himself. But, the fact that you can have him 1-2 rounds later than Zac Stacy in rookie drafts, and he offers essentially the same positives and upside, I think he is a steal at this point in rookie drafts.

I don't think Taylor offers the same upside as Zac Stacy but otherwise I agree with what you are saying.

 

[TheLurkerBelow]

I'm a fan of targeting players who have a path to opportunity. Even if those players don't pan out for you, you can always trade them when they step into the opportunity and have a nice game or two and their value is high. I've either drafted or waiver picked up and then traded away players like Jackie Battle, Austin Collie, and Earnest Graham, Even if Stefan Taylor doesn't become a fantasy starter, trade him to someone who thinks he will once he has the starting gig for a week or two.

 

[SammyJankis]

I'll add a few links on what folks are seeing:

http://azbirdgang.com/?p=76: Cliff's Notes: Taylor is more creative than Ellington. Williams may not make team. Don't forget about Alfonso Smith.

Long homer discussion: http://www.arizonasportsfans.com/vb/f4/gauging-the-runningbacks-197641.html

 

[JFS171]

Anyways, the book on Taylor from the scouting community is that he's a solid and dependable runner whose game lacks flash. That probably points to a backup or spot starter career trajectory. That might be the most likely outcome, but there's enough here for me to take a chance at the low cost of a late 3rd-mid 4th round rookie pick. His game reminds me a bit of Frank Gore, Arian Foster, and Cedric Benson in the sense that his running skills are greater than the sum of his athletic parts. I can't remember a 4.7 RB ever succeeding in the NFL, but I also can't remember one ever being drafted so high. Taylor's career will be interesting to follow because he seemingly has all of the necessary ingredients to be successful besides the standout speed and measure explosiveness.

FWIW Taylor supposedly ran at the Combine despite being bothered by an ankle injury. Ran a 4.64 at his pro day, which isn't exactly setting the world on fire, but I would be curious if we could recall a 4.6 guy succeeding in the NFL.

 

[Craig_MiamiFL]

Arian Foster off the top of my head.

Edit: Alfred Morris would be another.

 

[ConnSKINS26]

Arian Foster off the top of my head.

Alfred Morris.

 

[Shanahanigans]

Anyways, the book on Taylor from the scouting community is that he's a solid and dependable runner whose game lacks flash. That probably points to a backup or spot starter career trajectory. That might be the most likely outcome, but there's enough here for me to take a chance at the low cost of a late 3rd-mid 4th round rookie pick. His game reminds me a bit of Frank Gore, Arian Foster, and Cedric Benson in the sense that his running skills are greater than the sum of his athletic parts. I can't remember a 4.7 RB ever succeeding in the NFL, but I also can't remember one ever being drafted so high. Taylor's career will be interesting to follow because he seemingly has all of the necessary ingredients to be successful besides the standout speed and measure explosiveness.

FWIW Taylor supposedly ran at the Combine despite being bothered by an ankle injury. Ran a 4.64 at his pro day, which isn't exactly setting the world on fire, but I would be curious if we could recall a 4.6 guy succeeding in the NFL.

I would add Terrell Davis and Rudi Johnson to the list of 4.6 RBs who succeeded. I'm sure theres more if someone did research, but I'm not going to bother. Suffice it to say that 40 time is much more important for a WR than for a RB. It certainly doesn't help Taylor that he runs a 4.6-4.7, but it's not as big a deal as say Vincent Brown running a 4.6-4.7.

 

[az_prof]

Arian Foster off the top of my head.

Alfred Morris.

I know Foster plays in a zone scheme; does Morris too ( I think so)? If so, could they be a factor? And will AZ be running a zone scheme?

 

[ConnSKINS26]

Arian Foster off the top of my head.

Alfred Morris.

I know Foster plays in a zone scheme; does Morris too ( I think so)? If so, could they be a factor? And will AZ be running a zone scheme?

Yes, Morris does as well. So did Terrell Davis. It's definitely a particular, shared skill-set.

 

[ldizzle]

Arian Foster off the top of my head.

Alfred Morris.

I know Foster plays in a zone scheme; does Morris too ( I think so)? If so, could they be a factor? And will AZ be running a zone scheme?

Well wouldn't you know it. I happened to come across an old steeler thread that confirms that he DOES in fact favor a zone scheme. Hmmm.....interesting

http://www.steeleraddicts.com/forum/showthread.php/21988-STOP-ZONE-BLOCKING

 

[JFS171]

Hope this hype train doesn't go nuts just yet. Still have a ridiculously late rookie draft left where I'm hoping to snag Taylor.

The guy knows how to make people miss in tight spaces, exactly like EBF said. And while he lacks top-end speed, he sure looks the part on the highlights I've seen. Plus his ability to play all three downs...

 

[Biabreakable]

The Cardinals already have Rashard Mendenhall, Ryan Williams, William Powell, Alfonso Smith on the roster, so adding a rookie to that rotation made little sense, especially with the needs remaining coming into the fifth round of the draft.

But, when you looked at the running backs that were still on the board in round five, it became more of a reality that Steve Keim and Co. might pick one -- not because of need, but because of the value they possess.

Stepfan Taylor was the pick, and what an excellent pick it was.

What does Taylor bring to the Cardinals?

Taylor is maybe the most complete back in this draft. He was on the field in every situation in his career at Stanford, and it shows up on film.

He's a tough, inside, patient runner that comes from a power-based scheme, and should be comfortable in the Arians running scheme, even if it looks like the Cardinals are moving towards a more zone-based scheme.

Taylor isn't necessarily a great athlete, but he shows enough of a burst to get to the hole and through it. He has excellent vision, knows how to bounce a run when needed even if he lacks a consistent burst to get outside on planned outside runs. And, even without that game-changing speed, he has enough giddy up to break a long run and take it to the house.The Cardinal of Stanford had such faith in Taylor as a pass blocker -- an absolute must in Arians downfield attacking offense -- that they would even leave defenders unblocked on purpose in the belief that Taylor could pick up the block.

While Taylor is a deft receiver out of the backfield (he definitely has better hands than most of the other backs in the class), he also is good in pass protection. He consistently cuts down oncoming defenders, and is effective in blitz pick up. In back-to-back plays we see Taylor step up into pass protection and pick up good blocks.In back-to-back plays we see Taylor step up into pass protection and pick up good blocks. In back-to-back plays we see Taylor step up into pass protection and pick up good blocks.

The Cardinal of Stanford had such faith in Taylor as a pass blocker -- an absolute must in Arians downfield attacking offense -- that they would even leave defenders unblocked on purpose in the belief that Taylor could pick up the block.

What the Arizona Cardinals are getting with Stepfan Taylor is a workhorse type running back that can carry the load, be a three down running back because of his effectiveness in the passing game, and possesses the ability to be a grind it out, wear down a defense type back.He runs through arm tackles, keeps his legs churning and is able to pick up cheap yards. He shows a good subtleness to his moves in the open field, and knows how to make a man miss.

If you're looking for a home run threat, well don't get your hopes up, but if you're looking for a smart, patient, and strong between-the-tackle runner, someone who can be a feature back and carry the ball 20 times a game for 85 yards and a touchdown, well you'll enjoy watching Taylor work.

Some videos in the link: http://arizonasports.com/40/1630386/NFL-Draft-Breaking-down-RB-Taylor

 

[TheLurkerBelow]

Arian Foster off the top of my head.

Alfred Morris.

I know Foster plays in a zone scheme; does Morris too ( I think so)? If so, could they be a factor? And will AZ be running a zone scheme?

Well wouldn't you know it. I happened to come across an old steeler thread that confirms that he DOES in fact favor a zone scheme. Hmmm.....interesting

http://www.steeleraddicts.com/forum/showthread.php/21988-STOP-ZONE-BLOCKING

Now gentlemen (and any ladies?), THIS is why we're all here. I consider this to be a very good little nugget of information that raises Taylor up my rookie draft board a few slots. The guy has a clear path to the starting job seeing as everyone in front of him (Mendenhall and Williams) is banged up and has had major injuries in the recent past. If he's got the skill set to succeed in the scheme that Arizona will use, he could be a great dynasty prospect. Now to figure out what pick I'll need to have/use to get him.

 

[ROYALWITCHEESE]

Arian Foster off the top of my head.

Alfred Morris.

I know Foster plays in a zone scheme; does Morris too ( I think so)? If so, could they be a factor? And will AZ be running a zone scheme?

Well wouldn't you know it. I happened to come across an old steeler thread that confirms that he DOES in fact favor a zone scheme. Hmmm.....interesting http://www.steeleraddicts.com/forum/showthread.php/21988-STOP-ZONE-BLOCKING

Now gentlemen (and any ladies?), THIS is why we're all here. I consider this to be a very good little nugget of information that raises Taylor up my rookie draft board a few slots. The guy has a clear path to the starting job seeing as everyone in front of him (Mendenhall and Williams) is banged up and has had major injuries in the recent past. If he's got the skill set to succeed in the scheme that Arizona will use, he could be a great dynasty prospect. Now to figure out what pick I'll need to have/use to get him.

I don't see a clear path. Mendenhall is going to be the workhorse if healthy. We all know that. A missed portion of training camp doesn't change that in the slightest, as many vets are rested throughout camp.

Taylor actually reminds me of Bradshaw without the speed. Not sure if that is good or bad. I do think, however, that comparing him to Foster is absolutely laughable. To a certain extent Mortis as well. Those guys are much more physical at the point of contact.

 

[FDC]

I don't see a clear path. Mendenhall is going to be the workhorse if healthy. We all know that. A missed portion of training camp doesn't change that in the slightest, as many vets are rested throughout camp.

Taylor actually reminds me of Bradshaw without the speed. Not sure if that is good or bad. I do think, however, that comparing him to Foster is absolutely laughable. To a certain extent Mortis as well. Those guys are much more physical at the point of contact.

lurker said a clear path with injuries. And people were just naming RBs that succeeded with a slow 40 time, not comparing

 

[ROYALWITCHEESE]

I don't see a clear path. Mendenhall is going to be the workhorse if healthy. We all know that. A missed portion of training camp doesn't change that in the slightest, as many vets are rested throughout camp.

Taylor actually reminds me of Bradshaw without the speed. Not sure if that is good or bad. I do think, however, that comparing him to Foster is absolutely laughable. To a certain extent Mortis as well. Those guys are much more physical at the point of contact.

lurker said a clear path with injuries. And people were just naming RBs that succeeded with a slow 40 time, not comparing

EVERYBODY has a clear path if everyone in front of them gets hurt. "No ####in ####. That ain't no kinda answer" :Marcellus Wallace voice:

My point about the 40 times is that Foster and Morris overcome that lack of speed through something. What is Taylor going to overcome it with? He's not really physical. He appears to have some nice agility and moves, but IMO we've seen dozens of players just like him the last few years...

 

[ODannyBoy]

Stephen Taylor = speed?

Is this opposite day?

Dude doesn't have breakaway speed, but he's not slow. Doesn't seem to go down easily either. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_00ziPxn0Os

.I've watched his highlights. S.l.o.w.

Ellington is faster.

Lol thanks for the input. I figured as much. If mendy and williams cant go, I wonder if they bring in a guy like mcgahee, or roll with the rooks.Edit: he isnt a world beater, but he looks tough to bring down, can pass protect, and cstch outta the backfield. So who knows

I think he's more in the J.Bell/B.Powell mold. Not really excellent at anything, but pretty solid ( or good enough) in all things. Not exciting enough to be a lead back candidate on his own merits, but yet consisitently underrated by everyone except the coaches who realize he is the first guy off the bench if another back gets dinged up and can fill multiple niches if they like to specialize in their sub packages.

 

[TheLurkerBelow]

I don't see a clear path. Mendenhall is going to be the workhorse if healthy. We all know that. A missed portion of training camp doesn't change that in the slightest, as many vets are rested throughout camp.

Taylor actually reminds me of Bradshaw without the speed. Not sure if that is good or bad. I do think, however, that comparing him to Foster is absolutely laughable. To a certain extent Mortis as well. Those guys are much more physical at the point of contact.

lurker said a clear path with injuries. And people were just naming RBs that succeeded with a slow 40 time, not comparing

EVERYBODY has a clear path if everyone in front of them gets hurt. "No ####in ####. That ain't no kinda answer" :Marcellus Wallace voice:

My point about the 40 times is that Foster and Morris overcome that lack of speed through something. What is Taylor going to overcome it with? He's not really physical. He appears to have some nice agility and moves, but IMO we've seen dozens of players just like him the last few years...

Yes, but not everybody is in a situation where the people in front of them are already injured, and those injured people have had other major injuries in the recent past. Very different from saying someone like Christine Michael has a clear path with injuries.

 

[az_prof]

I don't see a clear path. Mendenhall is going to be the workhorse if healthy. We all know that. A missed portion of training camp doesn't change that in the slightest, as many vets are rested throughout camp.

Taylor actually reminds me of Bradshaw without the speed. Not sure if that is good or bad. I do think, however, that comparing him to Foster is absolutely laughable. To a certain extent Mortis as well. Those guys are much more physical at the point of contact.

lurker said a clear path with injuries. And people were just naming RBs that succeeded with a slow 40 time, not comparing

EVERYBODY has a clear path if everyone in front of them gets hurt. "No ####in ####. That ain't no kinda answer" :Marcellus Wallace voice:

My point about the 40 times is that Foster and Morris overcome that lack of speed through something. What is Taylor going to overcome it with? He's not really physical. He appears to have some nice agility and moves, but IMO we've seen dozens of players just like him the last few years...

Of course, everyone has a clear path if everyone else in front gets hurt. But what has people's attention here is that the two people in front of Taylor are

a) returning from injuries last season

b) have been injury prone

c) are not practicing already in camp

So the path looks more open for Taylor and Ellington too for that matter than for most 5th or 6th round rookies.

And more rookie RBs, especially non-elite picks, tend to sit on the bench a lot their first year because they need to learn pass blocking or ball security. It sounds like Taylor doesn't have those issues, so that makes the path to getting PT appear easier too

 

[FDC]

My point about the 40 times is that Foster and Morris overcome that lack of speed through something. What is Taylor going to overcome it with? He's not really physical. He appears to have some nice agility and moves, but IMO we've seen dozens of players just like him the last few years...

In addition to the OP, here is Waldman on Stepfan 2 days ago...

The former Stanford Cardinals runner is a great fit for the Bruce Arians offense. Much quicker than fast, Taylor’s low center of gravity and shifty style for a power runner makes him the best style of runner for this offense than any player currently on the Arizona depth chart – including Rashard Mendenhall and Ryan Williams. These two veterans are more talented, but I think Taylor has the potential to grow into a more versatile option and he runs with his eyes a little better than the former Steeler. Williams can’t stay healthy to save his life right now – and I think he is playing for his career life this year. Some love Andre Ellington, but I don’t see a future C.J. Spiller. That said, he’s had some good moments in camp thus far and he’s further down my list until I see some moments in preseason.

 

[ldizzle]

I don't see a clear path. Mendenhall is going to be the workhorse if healthy. We all know that. A missed portion of training camp doesn't change that in the slightest, as many vets are rested throughout camp.

Taylor actually reminds me of Bradshaw without the speed. Not sure if that is good or bad. I do think, however, that comparing him to Foster is absolutely laughable. To a certain extent Mortis as well. Those guys are much more physical at the point of contact.

lurker said a clear path with injuries. And people were just naming RBs that succeeded with a slow 40 time, not comparing

EVERYBODY has a clear path if everyone in front of them gets hurt. "No ####in ####. That ain't no kinda answer" :Marcellus Wallace voice:

My point about the 40 times is that Foster and Morris overcome that lack of speed through something. What is Taylor going to overcome it with? He's not really physical. He appears to have some nice agility and moves, but IMO we've seen dozens of players just like him the last few years...

Of course, everyone has a clear path if everyone else in front gets hurt. But what has people's attention here is that the two people in front of Taylor are

a) returning from injuries last season

b) have been injury prone

c) are not practicing already in camp

So the path looks more open for Stewart and Ellington too for that matter than for most 5th or 6th round rookies.

And more rookie RBs, especially non-elite picks, tend to sit on the bench a lot their first year because they need to learn pass blocking or ball security. It sounds like Taylor doesn't have those issues, so that makes the path to getting PT appear easier too

I dont think it is that simple. When your main guy goes down, (like a mendenhall on the steelers or cedric benson on the packers as some examples) it can turn into a rbbc really quick if you dont have a solid guy to step in there that can do good at everything. With stepfan, the coaches think he can do everything, so he could essentially be a 3 down back, which is what i think gives him the most value if mendy or williams can't suit up.

 

[FDC]

I dont think it is that simple. When your main guy goes down, (like a mendenhall on the steelers or cedric benson on the packers as some examples) it can turn into a rbbc really quick if you dont have a solid guy to step in there that can do good at everything. With stepfan, the coaches think he can do everything, so he could essentially be a 3 down back, which is what i think gives him the most value if mendy or williams can't suit up.

Yep - reminiscent of another recent Cards 5th round RB that wasn't so talented but maintained relevent fantasy value... Tim Hightower

 

[Bob Magaw]

i like matt and EBFs takes above... i took him in a few recent dynasty drafts (one start up) where i had ryan williams but not mendenhall, to hedge my bets... one note, in highlights EBF used, he did get pulled down from behind a lot... in the below highlights, while i think some plays overlap, you see him get into the open field and not get caught from behind more often (at least in the first half of the respective highlights)... not sure if EBFs is less flattering or this is more flattering, he is what he is, but this might put him in a slightly different light...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_00ziPxn0Os

independent scout frank coyle used lesean mccoy as comp (obviously not as quick, fast, shifty or elusive)... i have heard rice (again not as explosive)...

reportedly andrew luck was RAVING last year about taylor to arians, and that may be partly why he was on his radar...

he might be the best RB on the roster right now, vets included, at having a three down skill set... he was called by scouts one of the most complete RBs in the class, very good at pass protection and catching out of the backfield...

as noted, mendenhall and ryan williams have still been gimpy at times in traing camp and dating back to last year...

i, like almost everybody who was aware of it, was naturally alarmed by his plodding, lineman-like 40 time at combine... but i did recently research that point, and saw it reported he bettered it to 4.65 at pro day, and as also noted above, that is in neighborhood of successful 2012 rookie RBs morris and ballard (who did it for arians)... at 5'9" 215 lbs., he has more than adequate NFL size for the position (about same as emmit smith, same weight, maybe inch shorter?)...

other potential 4.6ish historical exemplar RBs have been batted around... a RB who was "slow" but very quick, was brian westbook (reported 4.57)...

how much difference is there between a nearly 4.6 and 4.65? and that is over 40 yards... real football isn't comprised of 40 yard linear, straight-line sprints in shorts... with westbrook, it was all the stops and starts and feints and jukes and changes of direction that put the defender in westbrook's world and made him special... over a 40 yard run, he might have the equivalent three to four to five separate 5 to 10 yard sprints in which the defender had to keep regathering themselves...

to translate back and forth between the worlds of track testing and football... how far would taylor have been behind westbrook in a 40 (less than a yard, foot or two?)... and that isn't even relevant, because actual NFL in-game runs are more like a series of stop and start 5-10 yard runs... so how far ahead would westbrook be ahead of taylor in a 10 yard dash? westbrook did have electric burst, suddenness and short area quickness, but still... the difference might be less than a foot... than we might be talking only inches?

it is a cliche, but jerry rice was "slow"... i asked somebody once who was a local product but said he was a reserve DB on 49er championship teams, and asked how it was possible that he was "slow" but never caught from behind... he said it was due to his rare short area quickness...

not comparing them, just illustrating the point that it is possible for a RB to lack CJ spiller-like sprinter, track speed and still have a niche in the league...

a few other things to like about taylor... arians reportedly prefers one RB and not a RBBC... if taylor leapfrogs mendenhall (who, despite arians experience and presumed comfort with given their prior history in PIT, HC loyalty didn't extend past one year "prove it" contract) and williams (who needs to step it up or i agree it looks like he could have serious trouble making roster), he could be that guy...

the painful memories of how completely, utterly inept ARI has been in recent years lingers, but even if palmer is not what he was a half decade ago at CIN in his prime, he is easily best ARI QB since warner... a rejuvenated, revitalized fitzgerald, michael floyd was arguably top WR from class of '12 (i know waldman liked him better than blackmon), roberts has the talent to be one of the better WR3s in the league... top 10 overall rookie cooper was a massive upgrade in interior OL... ARI has a chance to be around the goal line far more than in past few years, the 2013 iteration shouldn't be judged harshly by heinous offenses trotted out past few years...

taylor may also be under radar a little bit as stanford isn't associated with being a RB factory like alabama in recent years (ingram, richardson, lacy), or closer to home but more back in the day, former pac 10 collossus USC (mike garrett, OJ simpson, the late ricky bell, marcus allen, not to mention great collegiates but lackluster pros, anthony davis and charles white)... the only stanford RB of consequence i could think of, because taylor broke school records, was darrin nelson (sure enough, he was RB who's records taylor broke), who was a decent pro, sort of a poor man's roger craig, marshall faulk, who was a good receiving weapon out of backfield... stanford of course known more for QBs (plunkett, elway, luck)... i forgot about MIN reserve toby gerhardt, good enough prospect to be a 2nd round pick (hard to say if he was overdrafted as he will never get a chance as long as he is behind peterson)...

taylor may be the kind of RB that a team constantly looks to improve on (morris in WAS probably not looking over his shoulder, but ballard already RB2 in a RBBC with bradshaw, if healthy - though who knows if arians would have signed him, he was already gone?)... but his three down skill set may make him harder to root out? and for where you can get him, pretty cheap investment, not catastrophic if he ultimately becomes serviceable starter for few years after which he is supplanted...

* on the bonus plan, with percy harvin and tavon austin (and in IDP leagues, sounds like patrick peterson could take more offensive snaps than any defensive player since deion sanders - arians has said he has the talent, athleticism and explosiveness to be a harvin like all purpose weapon, i agree, he broke several return records in pro bowl rookie campaign) it is like getting two players in one... with taylor, you get two personalitiies in one... taylor's alter ego, kulabafi...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yu5l86SgDJk

 

[SammyJankis]

Just read this. The next preseason game could be interesting:

Another blow to the banged-up running backs. Andre Ellington is having his neck checked out and will undergo the concussion protocol after leaving practice yesterday, although Arians said he is still hopeful Ellington can play in Green Bay. Hes also hopeful Rashard Mendenhall will be able to play a quarter too. Thatd be good, or its gonna be a ton of work for Stepfan Taylor and Alfonso Smith.

 

[Bob Magaw]

forgot to mention earlier, although taylor ended up going in the 5th round, i read several times scouts expected taylor to go in the third or even second...

than he tested poorly, and his stock went down... or maybe this was just part of RBs in class down graded en masse (cowboys claimed they had third round grade on joseph randle, who also went in fifth) - no first round RB since start of common draft (?), which in turn could be reflection of the class... OR larger statement of how position seems to be perceived by the league as increasingly fungible and commoditized...

scouts sometimes make fun of the process of assigning a pre-COMBINE grade, than drastically moving it up or down acoording to some artificial tests in track shorts... i realize sometimes testing well correlates with success at next level (and sometimes not - see notorious workout warrior mike mamula)... NEs first pick, rookie second round LB/DE jamie collins is a freak (broke calvin johnson's ((?)) broad jump record with something like 11'7"), but he also had some good tape in college to back it up, i do think he has star potential...

throwing out earlier grade some scouts may have had on taylor (if that happened in some cases... maybe some scouts had taylor as fourth, or fifth, or even 6th or 7th, in which case this critique wouldn't be applicable) seems like ignoring the evidence of your own eyes?

 

[MAC_32]

Taylor slipped because of depth of position, rb being de valued at nfl level, and poor testing.

Everything discussing him before january indicated day two pick.

 

[ldizzle]

Just looked at the drive log and it looks like alfonso smith got the nod over stepfan for the first team reps

 

[ShaHBucks]

Jason Snelling 2.0. He'll be useful but never a consistent starter or a superstar. He didn't make my board at all. He's looks like a better athlete than the numbers suggest.

 

[TwinTurbo]

I'm guessing Mendenhall probably runs no better than 4.6 at this point in his career either. That said, Taylor has a lot of RB's in front of him and this rushing offense is still going to suck no matter who is the lead RB.

 

[az_prof]

To be clear: I am not saying Taylor is as good as Alfred Morris and I do NOT think he will have as good a year as Morris did last year. That being said, he DOES have a good opportunity and if he gets enough carries could well be a useful fantasy RB. I think people are comparing them because they both were late rookie picks and because Morris also had a slow 40 time.

But, in another thread people are disparaging Taylor because his first preseason game as rookie he had 63 yards on 21 carries. Rotoworld opines from this that "It's the kind of back Taylor is: an inside grinder who'll never rush for a high yards-per-carry average or break big plays. Aside from a 14-yard run, Taylor's YPC against the Packers was 2.45. He's no threat to Rashard Mendenhall."

Well, I have learned that preseason games do not tell you much. They can give you a clue that an unknown player may be a future superstar--a clue. Not all great preseasons lead to great careers. But you have to be careful about overanalyzing these games because players are playing with guys who will not make the league and the playbook is very basic. Plus, you have to be careful from drawing conclusions from one game in any case--too small a sample size.

In this case, I see a few positives:

1) he didn't fumble; fumbling kills a young RB's chances

2) he can carry a big load in the NFL--21 carries is a lot. That bodes well for the hope of him becoming a yardage/attempts guy ala Shonne Green.

As for the ypc in a preseason game meaning much, consider this rookie's performance in his first preseason game:

15 carries for 54 yards, a 3.6 ypc.

Who is this rookie RB?

Alfred Morris, last year, versus the Bills. It looks like that didn't hinder Morris from going on to have a very productive year.

http://espn.go.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=320809002

 

[MAC_32]

As prospects, they have a very similar makeup. Comparison plausible.

 

[socrates]

Pretty impressive clip of Taylor. I love the guy's leg drive, and while he lacks that dynamic quality of Ellington, he does so many things well, it would still not surprise me if we see his role grow, even with the return of Mendenhall.

http://www.azcardinals.com/videos-photos/videos/Xmo-Xtra---Stepfan-Taylor-runs-through-the-Falcons/5b072d7f-5de2-4b8b-bd3c-aee2f49eae11

 

[ROYALWITCHEESE]

He's a bum.