Memphis RB Kenneth Gainwell a swiss army knife in 2021 NFL Draft
By Cory Kinnan
Looking at Gainwell’s 2021 NFL Draft projection
His game emulates a bit of that of now Philadelphia Eagles running backs Miles Sanders, who was also drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He has an extraordinary amount of talent, but will have to bank directly on his redshirt freshman tape with the Tigers. Given the departure of Norvell to the Florida State Seminoles, it was a smart decision, however, for Gainwell to end his college career on a high note.
Given the low-priority of the running back position in today’s NFL, often identified as the least valuable position on the field and easily replaceable, it is hard to project their stock. Just last year, only one running back went in the first round as Edwards-Helaire landed with the Kansas City Chiefs with the last pick of the night. The year before that, no running backs went in the first round.
Joe Marino of The Draft Network has also found himself a big fan of Gainwell, stating the following in his scouting report:
"“For a guy with his per/touch production, Gainwell is impressive with how consistent he is at ‘staying the course’ and not getting overly creative when it’s not necessary. Impressive amount of power for his frame and he has the strength to move piles and pick up yards post-contact. Natural pass catcher. Was used often as a slot receiver and he does a great job of disguising screens. Versatile and multifaceted with upside as an inside and outside runner in addition to catching the football.”"
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However, given his talent and ability out of the backfield, this writer has given Gainwell a second round grade, making him firmly a day-two draft pick in the 2021 NFL Draft at this current projection. Once he tests at the NFL Scouting Combine, which he will use all of his time now training for, his stock can be a bit more solid after he opted out.