Oregon’s Royce Freeman is looking to build off last year’s success and work his way up draft boards.
Royce Freeman has put up some impressive numbers over the course of his college career. He is a good fit for Oregon’s spread attack that offers good running lanes. Freeman has a combination of a strong build and quick burst.
Most of his success comes between the tackles where he does a good job picking his way through traffic. Freeman isn’t an elusive runner but he has that unique ability to make defenders miss in tight situations.
He uses a studder step and juke move that allows him to avoid the initial tackler and work his way down field. Freeman also has the short-area burst to shoot through open running lanes before they close. This isn’t a burner type running back but he has enough overall speed to break off long runs.
Freeman is a solid pass blocker showing the ability to anchor after contact and good hand usage. He routinely squares his body to the rusher and uses his hands to keep the defender off
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his frame. His commitment to protecting the quarterback is something NFL teams will love to see.
Oregon’s offense also asks Freeman to do some blocking in the running game. Again, he is a willing and capable lead blocker which helps spring his teammates for long runs.
In the passing game, Freeman shows solid hands with the ability to pluck the ball away from his frame. He’s capable of running several different routes and can locate the holes in the zone.
The issues with Freeman’s game are tied to his vision and ability to quickly identify open running lanes. Too often, he’ll run into the back of his offensive line rather than finding space. Freeman will also hesitate at times which allows the defensive to close.
His hesitation also extends to when he’s in the open field. Freeman looks to juke the defender rather than finishing the run off with power. He has the size to be a more powerful finisher but needs to do a better job recognizing when to lower his head.
Current Draft Status: Late 3rd Round