Travis Etienne looks to be a top back in the 2021 NFL Draft
The Clemson Tigers are often referred to as “WRU” and rightfully so; the Tigers have been able to produce NFL talent at the receiver position at a high rate for the past several years — from guys like DeAndre Hopkins, arguably one of the best receivers in the league. However, running back Travis Etienne has them looking at a non-receiver in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Tee Higgins was recently drafted with the 33rd (one pick away from the first round) overall pick in this year’s draft. Sammy Watkins is another Clemson alum who is fresh off a Super Bowl win with the Kansas City Chiefs. The Tigers also have another potential star at the receiver position that will likely enter the 2021 Draft, Justyn Ross.
Today, however, we will not be talking about a receiver. We’ll be taking a look at one of the best running backs in the 2021 NFL Draft, Travis Etienne. Etienne had the opportunity to pursue the NFL Draft this year but decided to go back to college, likely because he wants to win another national championship, or at least pursue one. It’s an interesting choice for a running back to not come out, especially when they have had the success that Etienne has had.
Oftentimes running backs will look to enter the NFL while the iron is still hot; the less tread on the tires, the better. That being said, it can still be a good thing that Etienne returns. There are still parts of his game that need refining and this year could give him the chance to do so.
Scouting Report
Games Watched: Boston College, Wake Forest, Virginia, and Ohio State
Vision: Gets locked into one-side of line, on several occasions he missed a wide-open cut-back lane. Would like to see him develop more patience and allow blocks to develop. Does best in space/wide zones where his lanes are in front of him and he can make a decision and go. (10/15)
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Burst: Plays with Jets in his feet, can go from 0–top speed quick-fast and in a hurry. He can gain 3 yards in the blink of an eye with his acceleration, on an elite level compared to his classmates. (15/15)
Receiving Ability: Not the most refined receiver out of the backfield quite yet. He doesn’t have a very large route tree out of the backfield, mostly used as a check down. The type of guy you want out in space because of his speed. (9/15)
Elusiveness: Not going to break ankles in the open field, but he understands how to manipulate tackle angles with his speed. They were time he would try to do too much behind the LOS. (10/15)
Long Speed: The man has the juice. Etienne has the ability to turn the smallest crease into a touchdown with his breakaway speed. Not many players on the field can match his speed. (10/10)
Scouting report part II
Pass Block: Not great in pass-pro.Etienne doesn’t get very many reps to begin with and it shows when he is tasked with protecting the quarterback. Has a hard time finding where the late pressure is coming from. Does a good job locating the blitzer and attempting to pick him up. (6/10)
Contact Balance: Power in his legs that allow him to run through arm/half tackles despite being an upright runner. He’s so fast his momentum carries him through tackles. (9/10)
Motor/Toughness: Not afraid to lower the shoulder and work for extra yards/run in-between the tackles. Physical runner, not going to go down without a fight. Runs HARD every time he touches the ball. (9.5/10)
2019 Season Stats: 204 carries, 1,614 yards rushing, 7.8 yards-per-carry, 19 rushing touchdowns, 37 receptions, 432 receiving yards, 11.7 yards-per-reception, and 4 receiving touchdowns.
Overall Grade: 7.85
Round Grade: Mid Second