NFL Scouting Combine: Half Back Recap
The running back draft class is a good one with two possible first round candidates. Todd Gurley of Georgia and Melvin Gordon of Wisconsin lead the group. Gurley was unable to workout because of a torn ACL he suffered last season at Georgia. Below are some of the guys who caught my eye for better or worse.
STOCK RISING:
1. Jeremy Langford (Michigan State)
Langford ran the fastest 40 yard dash time of any half back (4.42). Michigan State is just one of those programs that you know your going to get a well coached guy. The former Spartan also looked great during the drills showing off his footwork. Langford likely moved up a couple of rounds after his impressive day.
2. Duke Johnson (Miami)
Duke’s 4.54 40 time wasn’t what scouts were hoping for but his quickness agility is off the charts. Johnson looks like he has cemented himself as the 3rd best running back in the draft. An early 2nd round pick seems to make sense here. The Giovanni Bernard comparison comes to mind. Both players are quicker than fast and have similar playing styles.
STOCK FALLING:
1. Ameer Abduallah (Nebraska)
Abdullah came into the week with high hopes but failed to deliver. The 4.60 40 time started the controversy, which is an average time for someone expected to run faster. Then there are the ball security issues. Having lost 23 fumbles during the course of his collegiate career, everyone had there eyes on him in a negative way. A late second to early 3rd round pick looks to be in the cards.
Player I need to do more homework on
David Johnson (Nothern Iowa)
Johnson has the potential to become the next Matt Forte. Both guys are taller backs and came from smaller schools. After playing well in the Senior Bowl and being a stud in Indianapolis I need to spend more time watching his Northern Iowa tape. A 4.50 40 time, 6.82 3 cone, and 25 bench reps put Johnson on the radar for a lot of teams.
