4 sleeper running backs in the upcoming 2020 NFL Draft

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TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 09: Clyde Edwards-Helaire #22 of the LSU Tigers reacts after rushing for a 5-yard touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the game at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 09, 2019 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Clyde Edwards-Helaire RB

LSU Tigers Football /

Scouting Report

Clyde Edwards-Helaire may not be a sleeper much longer after he exploded onto the scene for the LSU Tigers last weekend in their victory over Alabama. Against the Crimson Tide, Edwards-Helaire found the endzone on four separate occasions, three on the ground and once as a receiver; he finished the game with over 100 yards rushing and also with nine catches for 77 yards as a receiver out of the backfield as well.

Edwards-Helaire is averaging 5.8 yards per carry this season for the Tigers, totaling 786 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground. Where Edwards-Helaire thrives and has the advantage over other mid-round running backs is his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield as well; in this year alone, the junior running back has caught 22 passes for 202 yards and a score.

While strength is not Edwards-Helaire’s strong suit as evidenced by subpar contact balance and poor blocking ability, he more than makes up for it in the speed and agility department. The LSU running back has great patience as he waits for holes to develop, makes himself small through running lanes, and shows good initial burst and top end speed to run away from defenders.

Edwards-Helaire’s footwork and agility in the open field makes him a real threat to snap off a long run at any point in the ball game. At the next level, Edwards-Helaire will thrive as a passing down option and a situational runner similar to Duke Johnson Jr. of the Houston Texans.

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