Kamryn Pettway, Auburn: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Auburn’s Kamryn Pettway is a big-bodied running back who does a lot of his damage between the tackles.
Kamryn Pettway is a bruising runner who breaks tackles and moves the pile. He’s at his best when working north and south where he can build up some steam. Pettway’s cutting ability is limited to one cut and getting downhill.
More from With the First Pick
- 2024 NFL Draft: Prospect Viewing Guide for Week 0
- 2024 NFL Draft: All Eyes On NFL Draft Defensive Prospects
- Player Spotlight: USC Safety Calen Bullock
- 2024 Senior Bowl Watchlist Announced
- 2024 NFL Draft: Florida State is Loaded with Prospect in 2023
He features a quick initial burst which helps him press the line and quickly get through the hole. Once he gains momentum it’s extremely difficult to get Pettway to the ground. He can break off some long runs after fighting through contact.
Pettway isn’t a major home-run threat and will get run down by quicker defenders. However, it’s his ability to gain positive yards and move the chains that makes him effective.
Auburn’s spread attack is an interesting fit for a power runner like Pettway. He might find even more success running behind a full back or an offensive line that looks to push defenders off the ball. However, his success at Auburn shows his scheme versatility.
Pettway will need to improve his pass blocking skills in order to be an every-down back. He is a willing blocker, but approaches the rusher lacking balance. This often results in him completely missing the block and giving the defender a free path to the quarterback.
He doesn’t bring much as a pass catcher with only two receptions this past season. Some teams will see him as a two-down back which may limit his overall draft stock. However, there are plenty of teams that love to get the ball into the hands of power runners on first and second down.
Pettway is a tick behind some of the other running back prospects in the 2018 NFL Draft.