NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jay Ajayi
Dec 31, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Jay Ajayi (27) runs for a touchdown in the first quarter against the Arizona Wildcats in the 2014 Fiesta Bowl at Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Bottom Line
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I am thoroughly confused as to why Zlerlein compared Ajayi to Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch. He cited the wide base that he runs with but running backs are taught to run with a wide base. He’s a good back but if I’m going to compare him to Lynch, I’ll say a watered down Lynch, lacking his speed and power.
Brugler’s bottom line is, “Compares to: Bishop Sankey, Tennessee Titans — Like the first running back drafted in the 2014 class, Ajayi has a balanced skill-set as a ballcarrier and receiver with the ability to make defenders miss and create his own yardage.”
Zlerlein’s bottom line is, “While the comparison to Marshawn Lynch might be a little much considering Lynch’s exploits in the NFL, Ajayi’s running style and body type are very similar to Lynch’s and Ajayi features an improving stiff arm and physicality that has become Lynch’s calling card. Ajayi has the ability to play all three downs while mashing in short yardage and near the goal line. Scouts have been quietly circling Ajayi as a second-tier running back who offers tremendous value on the second day (Rounds 2-3) of the draft.”