4 day-two NFL Draft prospects who could make an immediate impact
By Reese Nasser
Kenneth Walker II, Running Back Michigan State
Michigan State’s Kenneth Walker could very well be the best running back in this year’s class. After a final two collegiate seasons where Walker was arguably the most productive running back in football, he has paved his way to the top of this year’s group. But with how the running back position has been valued in football recently, there is a chance that no team addresses the position in the first round.
Walker spent the first two years of his career at Wake Forest. During his freshman season, he rushed for 579 yards and four touchdowns on 98 attempts. The following season Walker rushed for another 579 yards but racked up 13 touchdowns on 119 attempts. He then transferred to Michigan State where he reached a new level of his game.
During his lone season at Michigan State, Walker looked like a different player. His workload was the highest it had been in his career, and he delivered in a big way.
He rushed the ball 263 times, surpassing what he had totaled the previous two seasons combined. He recorded 1636 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns.
Walker plays a style of football that is perfectly built for the NFL. He isn’t the biggest runner but has the strength to create a path for himself. He also has the speed to be a threat whenever he touches the ball. His 4.38 40-yard dash was the third-fastest running back time at this year’s combine. This blend of strength and speed will allow him to fit into nearly any offense in the NFL.
When looking at Walker, his usage is worth noting. While playing in just 32 career games, he racked up 499 touches. He has proven that he can work and produce at a high level, but he has already touched the ball a lot in a fairly short time. Teams may be wary of a player who has already put his body through so much.
Walker was also underutilized in the passing game while at Michigan State. He struggled with pass protection and caught just 18 receptions over three seasons. He will have to make strides in this area to be more effective at the next level.
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Walker is one of the most electric players in this year’s class. He has all the making of an RB1 at the next level and there’s no reason he won’t be able to take that step. He can carry a team on his back and won’t slow down. Given that Walker can land on a team that fits what he brings to the table, he can be a top-tier player early on in his career.