| RB Ryan Mathews, Fresno State | |||||
| Pos. Rank: 2 | Grade: 1st Round | Height: 5-11 1/2 | Weight: 218 | 40: 4.42 | Year: 3-Jr. |
The Good: Terrific running back who displays ability on the interior or outside of tackle. Finds the running lanes, will pick his way on the inside and creates yardage. Patient, waits for blocks to develop and displays good instincts carrying the ball. Keeps his feet moving on contact, squeezes through the small openings and keeps the play in bounds, working to pick up as much yardage as possible. Makes defenders miss, uses an effective straight arm to keep defenders away, and picks up yardage off initial contact. Has a burst through the hole and better-than-average skills cutting back against the grain. Solid receiver out of the backfield, displaying soft, natural hands.
The Bad: Solid speed yet may not have the top and burst for the next level. Not a truly elusive ball-carrier.
The Verdict: Matthews has been productive the past three seasons and is a running back who offers a lot of skills for the next level. He has the ability to be a featured runner for an NFL team and can quickly see action as a rookie this September.
