With The First Pick
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Memphis RB Kenneth Gainwell a swiss army knife in 2021 NFL Draft

By Cory Kinnan

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 12: Kenneth Gainwell #19 of the Memphis Tigers runs the ball against the Temple Owls at Lincoln Financial Field on October 12, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 12: Kenneth Gainwell #19 of the Memphis Tigers runs the ball against the Temple Owls at Lincoln Financial Field on October 12, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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Memphis RB Kenneth Gainwell a swiss army knife in 2021 NFL Draft
Memphis RB Kenneth Gainwell a swiss army knife in 2021 NFL Draft (Photo by Benjamin Solomon/Getty Images) /

Where Kenneth Gainwell wins

Gainwell provides thrilling tape as he thrived on the field under former Memphis head coach Mike Norvell. What stands out immediately is the versatility Gainwell brings to the field for the Tigers, a trait NFL scouts and general managers will likely drool over at the next level and on the heels of the 2021 NFL Draft.

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Not only is Gainwell an active participant in pass protection, giving a valient effort despite his size, but he is a stupendous pass catcher out of the backfield. Not only did he catch 51 passes out of the backfield for the Tigers, but his film shows a player with soft hands, catch comfortability, and an ability to adjust to the football that will have some confusing him for a slot receiver.

He is a savvy route runner as well out of the backfield, able to separate from linebackers and safeties in man coverage. Given his ability as a receiver, he was among the top of the nation in all-around production in 2019.

As a runner, Gainwell is no slouch either (if his 1,500 yards rushing was no indication). He proves to be a patient runner as he waits for holes to develop in the trenches, and when a small one does develop, he has a knack for making himself small as he works towards the second level of the defense. Gainwell has a great burst, and has even better vision with quick, efficient eyes, and instincts with the ball in his hands.

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