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2016 NFL Draft: 10 Most Explosive Prospects in the Draft

By Jon Dove

September 5, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; Virginia Cavaliers running back Olamide Zaccheaus (33) runs the ball against the defense of UCLA Bruins linebacker Myles Jack (30) during the first half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
September 5, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; Virginia Cavaliers running back Olamide Zaccheaus (33) runs the ball against the defense of UCLA Bruins linebacker Myles Jack (30) during the first half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (2) runs with the ball against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (2) runs with the ball against the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Derrick Henry, RB, Alabama

Earlier in this article I broke down Arkansas’ Alex Collins and how his quick-twitch ability makes him a terrific prospect. Alabama’s Derrick Henry is a different type of runner but is still a strong prospect and explosive athlete.

Henry is not a quick-twitch athlete and needs room to be at his best. He’s not the type of runner who can stop his momentum and quickly get back to full speed. However, Henry is virtually unstoppable once he reaches the second level.

His college career is full of runs where he outpaces the defense after running over several defenders. Henry’s punishing style and the way he breaks tackles is explosive in its own right. He routinely delivers a blow knocking the tackler off balance.

Henry is unlikely to be a 1st round pick and that is because of his very specific running style. He won’t be a fit for every offense. In fact, there are some systems that require a patient runner where Henry wouldn’t succeed.

He reminds me a lot of fellow Alabama prospects Eddie Lacy and Mark Ingram. It’s not really a coincidence as Nick Saban and company target a specific type of running back. These are all physical runners who need specific scenarios to be at their best.

Next: Jarran Reed

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