2016 NFL Draft Big Board: December Update
By Jon Dove
Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Ezekiel Elliott (15) runs the ball in for a touchdown in the third quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
8. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
Ohio State’s Ezekiel Elliott has drawn some negative attention recently thanks to his comments after the Michigan State game and social media activity. This is a sign of immaturity and could raise some red flags, but overall it shouldn’t have a major impact on his draft stock. He is an elite player with a chance to dominate at the next level.
Elliott stands out from the other running back prospects because of his every-down potential. He brings a wide-array of skills to the field which allows him to remain in the game in every situation. Teams will value his ability to block as well as he runs.
However, his sits this high on my Big Board because of his ability to move the chains. Elliott is a tough runner who finishes runs by moving the pile forward. He’s extremely effective between the tackles and running over defenders.
There’s also a big-play aspect to his game as Elliott has shown the breakaway speed need to score from anywhere on the field.
I already mentioned his strength as a pass blocker, but Elliott is also a strong receiver out of the backfield. He routinely plucks the ball away from his frame and quickly gets up field.
Next: No. 9 Paxton Lynch