Scouting the 2021 NFL Draft: Memphis RB Kenneth Gainwell
By Seth Steere
Where He Can Improve
Only a redshirt freshman there were times where his inexperience would pop on his tape. There were way too many times on his tape where he would pass up wide-open gaps between the tackles trying to find sideline. Gainwell has got to get out of that one-track mind and be able to identify the open lane.
Patience is going to be the biggest key to his success on the ground at the next level; he likes to get out in front of his blockers finding himself ahead of the play and not getting as many yards as he probably should. There are times where it’s okay to get vertical or outside immediately, but not every play.
Since Gainwell is such a prolific threat as a receiver he wasn’t asked to protect to the quarterback very often and when he was, it didn’t end very well for the quarterback. He struggled to find the pressure in time often leading to sacks or hurried throws.
Quick Synopsis
Whether or not Gainwell is able to fix his vision issues there is no doubt that he will find a role at the next level, the question is just how big can that role be. If he is able to develop more as runner and learn to run with patience and let his blocks develop, there is a ton of upside there, because of his burst and contact balance.
From day one there should be no problems with him providing some type of threat as a receiver. Gainwell is a high floor, high ceiling prospect, no matter what you’re getting an effective pass-catcher/offensive-weapon, but you could end up with a bell-cow back.