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2023 NFL Draft: Running Back Prospects

Last Updated: April 2, 2023

2023 NFL Draft Running Back prospects and rankings.

⬇️ 2023 NFL Draft Prospects ⬇️

The 2023 NFL Draft will be the 88th annual meeting of National Football League franchises to select newly eligible players. The draft is scheduled to be held in the plaza outside of Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 27–29, 2023.

Network(s): ESPN, ABC, NFL Network, ESPN Deportes, ESPN Radio

Rd. 1, Pk. 8 (Atl) - Bijan Robinson, Texas (6.84)

Height: 5’11”. Weight: 215 lbs.

Prospect Grade: 6.84
Next Gen Stats: 96
Production Score: 99
Athleticism Score: 85
Total Score: 96

40-Yd Dash: 4.46 || 10-Yd Split: 1.52 || Vert. Jump: 37” || Broad Jump: 10’4” || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: —

Player Bio

Robinson proved himself to be a top high school football player in Arizona, earning the distinction twice and drawing the attention of top college recruiters after three 2,000-yard seasons. Ultimately, Texas secured his services for the 2020 season, and Robinson did not disappoint. He immediately established himself as a force to be reckoned with, leading the Longhorns with 703 rushing yards and setting a school record by averaging 8.2 yards per carry on 86 attempts. In 2021, Robinson continued to impress, starting in 10 games and earning first-team All-Big 12 honors for his team-leading 1,127 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground. He also ranked among the top 10 players in the FBS for all-purpose yards, averaging 142.2 yards per game. Robinson’s final season at Texas was a memorable one, as he won the prestigious Doak Walker Award for the nation’s top running back and was named a first-team Associated Press All-American and All-Big 12 selection. He amassed an impressive 1,580 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in just 12 starts, ranking among the top players in the FBS in both categories. Despite his success, Robinson opted out of the Alamo Bowl.

Overview

Robinson possesses a full menu of position-specific traits that allow him to affect games in a variety of ways. His well-built physique includes a compact lower half that pairs with agile feet, giving him a low center of gravity and unique running style that combines elements of both fight and flight. This unpredictability can catch defenders off guard. He excels as an inside/outside runner with exceptional footwork, capable of stacking moves and resetting pathways. However, Robinson also possesses the power to plow through tacklers at a moment’s notice, thanks to his elite contact balance. He may benefit from dialing back his efforts to seek out big runs and instead take what is available to avoid getting bogged down. As a pass-catcher, Robinson is a talented asset and can expect to see a high number of touches. With his abilities, he has the potential to quickly become one of the league’s most productive runners.

Strengths

This player is a three-down back who excels in all aspects of the game. They possess a range of footwork techniques, allowing them to modify their pace, direction, and power with ease. Their fast feet are closely attuned to their vision, resulting in optimal outcomes. In the face of penetration, they quickly reset their run track with sudden jump-cuts. Additionally, their low-to-the-ground running style and exceptional contact balance make them difficult to tackle. They are unpredictable in their carries, thanks to their ability to stack moves. They can also bounce off angle strikes and break through leg tackles. Furthermore, this player has a quick burst of speed and solid top-end speed. They finish their runs with authority and have soft hands that make them a threat on wheel routes.

Weaknesses

To excel against speedy NFL defenses, this player may need to quicken their operation time. At times, they have been observed looking to find better run lanes instead of finishing their runs. They could benefit from adopting a more decisive plant-and-go mentality to maximize their yards gained. Additionally, this player needs to exhibit a more consistent sense of urgency when it comes to their pass protection duties.

Rd. 1, Pk. 12 (Det) - Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama (6.37)

Height: 5’9”. Weight: 199 lbs.

Prospect Grade: 6.37
Next Gen Stats: 84
Production Score: 78
Athleticism Score: 81
Total Score: 84

40-Yd Dash: 4.36 || 10-Yd Split: 1.52 || Vert. Jump: 33.5” || Broad Jump: –‘ || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: —

Player Bio

Gibbs, a highly-touted four-star recruit and ranked among the top 75 prospects in the country, made a commitment to attend Georgia Tech after his impressive senior year at Dalton High School, where he was named the Georgia 6-A Offensive Player of the Year and earned first-team all-state recognition. During his 2020 season at Georgia Tech, Gibbs showed his versatility as a player, starting in six of seven appearances and recording 89 rushing attempts for 460 yards and four touchdowns, as well as 24 receptions for 303 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he was an honorable mention All-ACC kick returner, tallying 8 returns for 205 yards and an average of 25.6 yards per return. In his sophomore year in 2021, Gibbs was recognized as a third-team all-conference running back, rushing for 746 yards and four touchdowns on 143 attempts, and as a second-team kick returner, with 23 returns for 589 yards and one touchdown. In 2022, Gibbs transferred to Alabama and made an immediate impact, earning second-team All-SEC honors as the team’s leading running back with 926 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in 12 games and 11 starts. He was also named a third-team Associated Press All-American as an all-purpose player after leading the team with 44 receptions for 444 yards and three touchdowns and returning 13 kicks for 258 yards at an average of 19.8 yards per return.

Overview

Although Gibbs may not possess the physical tools to be the workhorse running back of an NFL team, he is still a valuable asset to any offense due to his ability to inject energy into the game. He is a swift runner who can force defenses to cover a wider area, and he is adept at using his agility to evade defenders when given enough space. However, he may not be as effective when used in short-yardage situations. As an RB2, he may benefit from a more conservative workload, but his versatility as a pass catcher makes him a valuable weapon in the hands of imaginative play-callers who can exploit mismatches and create opportunities for him in open space.

Strengths

This player’s speed is a valuable asset that allows play-callers to widen the field. Their running style is characterized by instant acceleration and smooth, gliding strides. Their light, quick feet enable them to make sudden, lateral cuts with ease. They are skilled at opening up the corner by altering their tempo and stride to stall pursuit. Their agility and wiggle make it difficult for open-field tacklers to bring them down. Additionally, they are a versatile weapon in the passing game, with excellent route-running skills that make them a tough cover in man-to-man situations. They possess natural, soft, and reliable hands, and have the potential to be an above-average kick returner.

Weaknesses

While this player shows promise, they have shown flashes of indecisiveness when processing inside runs. They tend to look for cuts even when the running lane lacks traffic, which can slow down their progress. Additionally, they have a below-average feel for blocking development, which could limit their effectiveness in certain schemes. They may also lack the necessary contact power to consistently gain tough yards. Furthermore, given their frame, they could face challenges in providing consistent blitz pickup.

Rd. 2, Pk. 21 (Sea) - Zach Charbonnet, UCLA (6.23)

Height: 6’0”. Weight: 214 lbs.

Prospect Grade: 6.23
Next Gen Stats: 82
Production Score: 82
Athleticism Score: 73
Total Score: 82

40-Yd Dash: 4.53 || 10-Yd Split: 1.54 || Vert. Jump: 37” || Broad Jump: 10’2” || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: 18 Reps

Player Bio

Charbonnet, whose name is pronounced SHAR-buh-nay, was among the top five running back recruits in the country when he graduated from Oaks Christian High School in California. He signed with the Michigan Wolverines for the 2019 season, where he was recognized with an honorable mention All-Big Ten award and named the team’s Offensive Rookie of the Year. Charbonnet led the team in rushing yards with 726 and scored 11 touchdowns on 149 carries, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. He also caught eight passes for 30 yards over the course of 13 games. However, after receiving just 19 carries (124 yards, 6.5 per, one TD) in five games during the 2020 season, he decided to transfer to UCLA. The Bruins made full use of his talents, giving him the ball 203 times for 1,137 yards and 13 touchdowns in 12 games during the 2021 season. As the team’s leading rusher, Charbonnet was recognized as a second-team All-Pac-12 selection and also contributed 24 receptions for 197 yards, averaging 8.2 yards per catch. In 2022, despite missing three games due to injury, Charbonnet had an even more impressive season, earning second-team Associated Press All-American honors as an all-purpose player and first-team All-Pac-12 accolades as the team’s leading rusher. He recorded 1,359 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns on 195 carries, averaging 7.0 yards per carry, and caught 37 passes for 321 yards, averaging 8.7 yards per catch in 10 starts. He ranked fourth in the FBS with an impressive 6.97 yards per carry average.

Overview

Charbonnet boasts an impressive physique and has demonstrated excellent output for the Bruins in successive seasons. However, his running style is somewhat upright, and he possesses slightly below-average foot speed, making him more effective when running downhill and building momentum. Although he can elude defenders in open space, he lacks the agility to avoid tacklers at the line of scrimmage. Charbonnet can be an effective runner when provided with clear paths to hit, but he struggles to quickly analyze defensive fronts. Additionally, he is a skilled third-down option, excelling in both blocking and receiving. Overall, Charbonnet’s three-down potential could make him a Day 2 draft pick with excellent value.

Strengths

This player carries their weight comfortably across their powerful build, making them a force to be reckoned with on the field. They exhibit patience while waiting for blocks to develop inside the scheme, allowing them to make smart decisions with the ball. Their build-up speed as an outside runner is surprising, and they can pick up a head of steam as the run progresses. They possess the strength and agility to slip past one tackler and run through the next one. Additionally, their above-average ball security makes them a reliable asset to their team. They are able to run a variety of routes with a plus catch radius, making them a versatile weapon in the passing game. Furthermore, they are not afraid to throw heavy hits at blitzers, showcasing their toughness and willingness to contribute in multiple facets of the game.

Weaknesses

This player’s hip tightness forces them to adopt a more upright gait, which can limit their mobility on the field. While they possess average acceleration when getting between tackles, their instincts on inside runs are below average, which could hinder their ability to gain yardage in certain situations. Additionally, they can be a little indecisive when reading stretch plays, which may result in missed opportunities. They lack the gather quickness necessary for quick cuts, which could limit their effectiveness in certain schemes. Finally, they struggle to hit the gas when their feet are forced to slow, which may affect their ability to make explosive plays.

Rd. 3, Pk. 8 (NO) - Kendre Miller, TCU (5.97)

Height: 5′ 11”. Weight: 215 lbs.

Prospect Grade: 5.97
Next Gen Stats: 80
Production Score: 81
Athleticism Score: 80
Total Score: 80

40-Yd Dash: — || 10-Yd Split: — || Vert. Jump: — || Broad Jump: — || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: —

Player Bio

Overview

Strengths

Weaknesses

Rd. 3, Pk. 18 (Ten) - Tyjae Spears, Tulane (6.22)

Height: 5’10”. Weight: 201 lbs.
Arm: 30 3/4”. Hand: 10”.

Prospect Grade: 6.22
Next Gen Stats: 87
Production Score: 88
Athleticism Score: 77
Total Score: 87

40-Yd Dash: — || 10-Yd Split: — || Vert. Jump: 39” || Broad Jump: 10’5” || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: 18 Reps

Player Bio

Spears has shown great improvement in his college career and has become one of the most productive running backs in the American Athletic Conference. He has good size, speed and vision, making him an effective inside and outside runner. His ability to make defenders miss and his contact balance are also impressive. Spears is also a reliable pass-catcher out of the backfield, with good hands and the ability to create yards after the catch. His performance in the Cotton Bowl showed his ability to excel on the big stage, which could be attractive to NFL teams. However, his injury history could be a concern, especially after missing most of the 2020 season with a knee injury. Overall, Spears has the potential to be a solid contributor at the next level if he can stay healthy.

Overview

His ability to make defenders miss in space is above-average, but his top-end speed is lacking. Spears has the agility to sidestep defenders and the balance to bounce off would-be tacklers, but he struggles to create chunk plays on his own. His pass protection skills are adequate, and he has enough hands to be a reliable check-down option. Spears’ lack of high-end physical traits might limit his ceiling, but he has the potential to carve out a role as a reliable complementary back in the NFL.

Strengths

Throughout his Tulane career, this player maintained an impressive average of seven yards per carry. In the 2022 season alone, they racked up a total of 21 touchdowns. Their running style is characterized by good bend and a smooth ability to change direction, allowing them to navigate through traffic effectively. While their field vision through the line of scrimmage is adequate, they excel in making sharp cuts on the second level, frequently eluding defenders with their agility. Additionally, they have a knack for running defenders into their own blockers, maximizing their yardage gains. Their timing when cutting off the hip of their blockers is also noteworthy, further demonstrating their strong instincts on the field.

Weaknesses

This player has average recognition and imagination as a runner, sometimes lacking early pace and decisiveness when hitting the hole. They also don’t possess much run-through power in their legs, making it difficult for them to power through contact. As a pass-catcher, their hands can be slippery and unsure, causing them to drop some catchable balls. Additionally, their significant history of knee injuries will require further examination to evaluate their long-term durability.

Rd. 3, Pk. 21 (Mia) - Devon Achane, Texas A&M (6.23)

Height: 5’8 1/2”. Weight: 188 lbs.
Arm: 29”. Hand: 8 1/2”.

Prospect Grade: 6.23
Next Gen Stats: 78
Production Score: 73
Athleticism Score: 79
Total Score: 78

40-Yd Dash: 4.32 || 10-Yd Split: 1.51 || Vert. Jump: 33” || Broad Jump: — || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: —

Player Bio

Devon Achane is a versatile athlete who has excelled both on the football field and on the track. He possesses blazing speed and agility, which he uses to evade defenders and make explosive plays. Despite his smaller size, he has proven to be a tough and physical runner, as well as a reliable receiver and return man. Achane’s speed and quickness make him a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and his ability to contribute on special teams adds value to his draft stock. However, some teams may be concerned about his durability due to his size and the foot injury he suffered in 2022. Overall, Achane projects as a dynamic weapon in the NFL who can contribute in a variety of ways and has the potential to be a home run threat every time he touches the ball.

Overview

Based on Achane’s skill set and physical attributes, a potential player comparison could be Tarik Cohen of the Chicago Bears. Both are undersized backs with blazing speed and impressive burst, and can be utilized in a variety of ways on offense, including as a receiver out of the backfield or from the slot. Like Cohen, Achane’s size may limit his durability and ability to be an every-down back in the NFL, but his explosive playmaking ability and versatility make him a valuable weapon for any team that can utilize him effectively.

Strengths

This player exhibits a strong sense of trust in their feet, which allows them to remain calm early in the run and make smart decisions with the ball. They run hard between the tackles and can make quick cuts across the grain, throwing off linebacker reads and gaining valuable yardage. They have a knack for disappearing in tight quarters, evading defenders and making impressive plays. When a pathway is not immediately available, they have the ability to find their own openings and gain yardage. With sprinter’s speed, they can outpace pursuit wide and hit long runs. They are able to stack cuts without losing momentum, making them a dangerous threat in the open field. Additionally, they possess the versatility to line up in the slot and beat coverage with their route-running ability, adding an extra layer to their skill set.

Weaknesses

This player has a muscular build but is small by NFL standards, which could raise concerns about their durability given their playing style. While they are capable of being patient when running the ball, they may be a little too cautious at times, potentially limiting their effectiveness in certain situations. Additionally, they have been known to drop passes that are thrown outside of their frame, which could affect their overall value as a receiver. Despite their willingness to engage in pass protection, their smaller size may make it challenging for them to match up against larger linebackers.

Zach Evans, Ole Miss (6.25)

Height: 5’11”. Weight: 202 lbs.
Arm: 31 5/8”. Hand: 10 1/4”.

Prospect Grade: 6.25
Next Gen Stats: 78
Production Score: 76
Athleticism Score: 71
Total Score: 78

Player Bio

Evans, a highly-touted five-star recruit, made history as the first of his kind to commit to TCU. He led his high school, North Shore, to consecutive state championships with an impressive career total of nearly 5,000 rushing yards and 76 touchdowns. In his debut season with TCU in 2020, Evans saw action in the final nine games, securing starts in the last three games and finishing with 415 rushing yards on 54 attempts with four touchdowns. He also contributed 76 receiving yards on eight receptions. Despite a toe injury sidelining him for six games in 2021, Evans still managed to lead the Horned Frogs with 648 rushing yards (92 attempts, five rushing touchdowns, and 10 receptions for 130 yards and a touchdown). Moving to Ole Miss in 2022, Evans fought through injuries, including a hip injury and a concussion, and finished the season with 936 rushing yards (144 attempts), tied for 10th in the FBS with an impressive 6.5 yards per carry, nine rushing touchdowns, and 12 receptions for 119 yards and one touchdown.

Overview

It’s worth noting that Evans’ career average is actually 6.5 yards per carry, but nonetheless, his ability to break off big runs is evident. His injury history is a legitimate concern, as he has missed significant time in each of the past two seasons. However, when healthy, Evans has shown that he can be a lead back with his size and ability to fight through contact. His vision and creativity may not be elite, but his physical traits make him a good candidate for early carries as a complementary back with the potential to develop into a starting RB1 in the future.

Strengths

This player’s body composition is similar to that of an NFL lead back. Their burst is sudden and explosive, allowing them to quickly accelerate through running lanes. They are adept at bouncing runs wide and beating pursuit to the corner. They are also quick to process and elude defenders when facing penetration. Their excellent contact balance enables them to slash through leg tackles and keep moving forward. They possess top-end speed that makes them a threat to score from anywhere on the field. Furthermore, they consistently add yards to their carries with their power, making them a reliable asset to their team’s offense.

Weaknesses

This player has demonstrated below-average processing and response to defensive fronts, which could limit their effectiveness against certain schemes. They have also shown a reluctance to press the line of scrimmage on zone plays, which could hinder their ability to gain positive yardage. Additionally, their hip tightness can limit the crispness of their cuts on wide-flowing plays. They lack creativity on the second level, which could make them easier to defend against. Finally, their fumble rate is concerning and will need to be addressed in order to ensure they can maintain possession of the ball.

DeWayne McBride, UAB (6.19)

Height: 5’10”. Weight: 209 lbs.
Arm: 30 5/8”. Hand: 9 1/2”.

Prospect Grade: 6.19
Next Gen Stats: 78
Production Score: 79
Athleticism Score: 75
Total Score: 78

40-Yd Dash: — || 10-Yd Split: — || Vert. Jump: — || Broad Jump: — || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: —

Overview

McBride has the potential to be a highly productive runner, and possesses the physical and athletic attributes that could lead to success in the right situation. He is well-versed in running in all blocking schemes and is comfortable with his experience. His running style is characterized by smooth hip movements, a good combination of shiftiness and power. However, he could benefit from improving his tempo and decisiveness, particularly when running inside. It is important that he eliminates ball security issues to avoid falling out of favor quickly. Although McBride’s lack of third-down value may impact his draft position, his upside makes him a worthy candidate for a Day 3 selection.

Strengths

This player had an impressive 2022 season, running for 120 or more yards in 10 of the 11 games. They seem comfortable running behind every blocking scheme and possess above-average vision to find the gaps in the defense. They also have a clever move of looking off tacklers to create more time for their cuts. Once they hit the second level, they generate a lot of collision momentum. Their agile hips allow them to swivel and stride around tacklers with ease. Additionally, they are able to execute sharp, back-side cuts on inside zone runs, showcasing their versatility. Finally, they have a combination of power and finesse that comes in handy near the goal line.

Weaknesses

He tends to be a bit hesitant when running between the tackles and his burst in that area is only average. Additionally, he can sometimes struggle with allowing blocks to develop and fumble issues could make him vulnerable to defenders looking to strip the ball. Furthermore, his lack of experience in the passing game over three seasons may limit his versatility at the next level.

Kenny McIntosh, Georgia (6.12)

Height: 6’0”. Weight: 204 lbs.

Prospect Grade: 6.12
Next Gen Stats: 74
Production Score: 78
Athleticism Score: 59
Total Score: 74

40-Yd Dash: 4.62 || 10-Yd Split: 1.54 || Vert. Jump: — || Broad Jump: — || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: —

Player Bio

Despite not being a full-time starter until his junior year, McIntosh has been a productive and versatile player for the Bulldogs. He has good size and athleticism for the position and is a patient runner who is able to find running lanes and make defenders miss with subtle moves. His balance and lower body strength are assets that help him break tackles and gain additional yardage. McIntosh is also an effective receiver out of the backfield, with soft hands and the ability to create after the catch. He is not an explosive or overly elusive runner, but he has a well-rounded skill set that should make him a valuable contributor at the next level, likely as a rotational back with potential to develop into a starting role.

Overview

Based on the scouting report provided, it seems that McIntosh’s skill set is better suited for a complementary role in an offense rather than being the lead back. He may struggle with recognizing and exploiting opportunities quickly and lacks the elusiveness to make defenders miss in tight spaces. However, he is capable of finding big runs and finishing runs with physicality. Additionally, he has shown excellent hands and has the potential to be a mismatch in the passing game when isolated out of the backfield. With full-time third-down reps, he could become a solid RB2.

Strengths

Showed improvement and more consistent performance towards the end of the 2022 season. Possesses impressive burst and acceleration to quickly break through the line of scrimmage. His exceptional speed is a big asset in executing outside runs. Can deliver a powerful finish to his runs. Demonstrates above-average balance when facing contact in the open field. Has natural hands and is a capable receiver out of the backfield, and is particularly effective running wheel routes to exploit opposing linebackers. Not afraid to engage blitzers in pass protection.

Weaknesses

He lacks fluidity and a consistent tempo when approaching the line of scrimmage. He could benefit from improving his ability to attack the line and hit his holes with more conviction. Struggles to read the blocks and adjust accordingly. Often appears to hesitate or dance in the backfield as he assesses the defense. Tends to run into the backs of his own blockers, which hinders his potential for explosive plays. His agility and elusiveness are only average at the second level.

Sean Tucker, Syracuse (6.10)

Height: 5’9”. Weight: 207 lbs.
Arm: 30”. Hand: 9 1/2”.

Prospect Grade: 6.10
Next Gen Stats: 78
Production Score: 70
Athleticism Score: 84
Total Score: 78

40-Yd Dash: — || 10-Yd Split: — || Vert. Jump: — || Broad Jump: — || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: —

Player Bio

Tucker is a compact back who runs with a low center of gravity and good balance, allowing him to bounce off tacklers and pick up extra yards after contact. He’s a tough runner who doesn’t shy away from contact and can move the pile in short-yardage situations. While he lacks elite speed and explosiveness, he has good vision and instincts to find running lanes and make quick decisions. Tucker is also a capable receiver out of the backfield and has shown good hands and route-running ability. His strong work ethic and leadership skills have been praised by his coaches and teammates.

Overview

Tucker possesses the physical traits to be a reliable backup on early downs, with his compact build, good contact balance, and instinctive ability to find opportunities beyond the blocking scheme. Though not possessing elite speed to burst through the line or evade linebackers, Tucker can effectively navigate through run lanes and maintain momentum after contact. He also demonstrates lateral quickness and enough acceleration to break away from defenders in the open field. While he has experience catching passes in the Syracuse offense, his skills as a third-down back are limited.

Strengths

He runs with a low center of gravity and excellent balance to power through contact. His patience allows him to set up blocks effectively, and he can use them to his advantage to run defenders into them. He also possesses the ability to quickly cut downhill on stretch plays with precision. When faced with a tight lane, he has a natural feel for finding a way to escape and create space from tacklers. He is particularly adept at plowing through arm tackles, thanks to his lower body strength. When finishing runs, he consistently falls forward to gain extra yardage.

Weaknesses

This running back tends to wait for fully formed entry points into the line, and can be a little clumsy getting through tight crevices, indicating a need for discipline to keep runs on track. He might not have enough burst to bounce runs wide, and lacks dynamic qualities out of the backfield. Additionally, teams are likely to be displeased with his pass protection.

Deuce Vaughn, Kansas State (5.86)

Height: 5’5”. Weight: 179 lbs.
Arm: 27 3/4”. Hand: 9 1/2”.

Prospect Grade: 5.86
Next Gen Stats: 72
Production Score: 72
Athleticism Score: 69
Total Score: 72

40-Yd Dash: — || 10-Yd Split: — || Vert. Jump: 35.5” || Broad Jump: 9’8” || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: 17 Reps

Player Bio

Vaughn is an explosive and versatile back who is equally effective as a runner and receiver. He has excellent vision and balance, and he runs with power and determination, consistently breaking tackles and finishing runs with authority. Vaughn also has reliable hands and is a dangerous threat out of the backfield or from the slot. He has experience returning kicks, which adds to his value as a special teams contributor. He may lack elite top-end speed, but he makes up for it with his quickness and agility in tight spaces. Overall, Vaughn has the potential to be a three-down back in the NFL and could hear his name called on Day 2 of the draft.

Overview

Based on his style of play and physical attributes, it’s possible that Vaughn could draw comparisons to other undersized NFL running backs like Darren Sproles or Dion Lewis. Both players have had success in the league despite their lack of size, relying on their quickness, agility, and ability to make defenders miss in the open field. Like Sproles and Lewis, Vaughn has shown the ability to contribute as a runner, receiver, and kick returner, making him a potential weapon in multiple facets of the game. However, his lack of size will likely be a concern for NFL teams and could affect his draft stock.

Strengths

This player has been productive both as a ball-carrier and a pass-catcher. He has also displayed durability by carrying a heavy workload. He is elusive and can sidestep early penetration while feeling comfortable navigating through tight creases. He is also able to bend and cut at crisp angles and has a low center of gravity, which bolsters his contact balance. Additionally, he is capable of running routes from the slot in empty sets.

Weaknesses

Despite being a productive ball-carrier and pass-catcher, this prospect’s measurables fall well below the NFL norm for his position. He has a tendency to take runs off track unnecessarily and needs to work on quickness through the line at the next level. Additionally, his unusually long strides for a shorter back make it difficult for him to find instant acceleration after tapping the brakes. His size also limits his ability in blitz pickups.

Landing Spots:

Denver Broncos: Round 4, No. 108 overall -- Round 5, No. 139 overall

Sean Payton gets his next Darren Sproles to complete his 3-headed monster out of the Denver backfield.

Drafted out of

Chris Rodriguez Jr., Kentucky (5.85)

Height: 6’0”. Weight: 217 lbs.

Prospect Grade: 5.85
Next Gen Stats: 71
Production Score: 71
Athleticism Score: 68
Total Score: 71

40-Yd Dash: — || 10-Yd Split: — || Vert. Jump: — || Broad Jump: — || 3-Cone: — || 20-Yd Shuttle: — || Bench: 19 Reps

Overview

Based on the analysis provided, it seems like Rodriguez’s best fit in the NFL would be as a short-yardage and goal-line specialist who can also serve as a reliable pass blocker on third downs. While he may not have the speed or elusiveness to break off big runs, his strength and power could make him a valuable asset in certain situations.

Strengths

As a two-time team captain, he possesses a thick frame that allows him to pick up tough yards and make tacklers feel his size at impact. He stays square while getting through downhill cuts, making it difficult for arm-tacklers to take him down. He also has a low success rate of being brought down by arm tackles and can stay on his feet through heavy angle strikes. He allows his lead blockers to do their work and steps up with force against incoming rushers.

Weaknesses

This running back’s burst getting through the line of scrimmage is below average, and he lacks finesse to navigate tight run lanes. His change of direction is heavy, and his one-speed running style is easy to track for linebackers. Additionally, his pad level is a little tall as a run-finisher, and he is inconsistent in finding his assignment versus blitz.