2021 NFL Draft: Rutgers RB Isaih Pacheco deserves your attention
By Cory Kinnan
Where Pacheco wins
Now diving into the tape of Pacheco, now entering his Junior year with the Scarlet Knights, there is a ton to like about the 5-foot-11 and 210 pound runner. In area of his game that will not have much bearing on his draft stock, but one that will warm the hearts of coaches everywhere: Pacheco is a willing and active participant in pass protection, giving his quarterback a bit more time to scan the field. He has active eyes in pass protection, and is always looking for work.
With a strong lower body, Pacheco is a strong runner who keeps his legs churning with the tendency to fall forward. Pacheco possesses good burst through the lanes, and has even demonstrated the patience behind the line of scrimmage as he waits for holes to develop.
As he scans for a lane, Pacheco displays great vision to read the hips of the blockers in front of him and has good footwork to hit the cutback lane when necessary. He has good speed to get to the edge should he be forced to bounce the ball outside, and thrives with creating even a small gap to gain limited yardage with a small stutter step to catch the defender on their heels.
His pad level is stupendous as he initiates contact, and as he plays small through tight running lanes. In the open field, Pacheco displays the ability to stick his foot in the ground in order to change directions and cover more ground in space; he has even busted out the occasional hurdle, putting his athleticism on display.