***2023 NFL Draft Thread***

[CJD]

Quote:STRENGTHS: Compact build and low center of gravity helps him absorb and bounce off contact … sees the field well and trusts his vision … sharp, balanced cuts leave missed tackles all over the field … runs with timing and patience to allow blocks to engage before accelerating through the hole … presses the line and abruptly sticks his foot in the ground on stretch and outside zone runs, forcing overpursuit with his cutting control … quickly taps into his top gear to create explosive runs (ranked No. 2 in the FBS with 48 runs of 10-plus yards in 2022) … his 40-inch vertical and 10-foot 7-inch broad jump ranked No. 1 among running backs at the NFL Scouting Combine … made clear improvements as a route runner and blocker on the 2022 tape … gained 25 pounds since he arrived at Illinois and changed his nutrition to prepare his body for the workload vs. Big Ten competition … had a career-year as a senior, surpassing 100 rushing yards in 10 of 12 games, including vs. the top run defenses (Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin) on the schedule.

WEAKNESSES: Average run power and not a consistent drive-through-contact runner … slight hip tightness and can be tripped up by arm tackles … inconsistent second-level cuts … accelerates well, but pull-away gear doesn’t always match timed speed … inconsistent blocking reps on tape, either missing the blitzer or struggling to square and sustain … ball security must improve (five fumbles in 2022) … smaller target as a pass catcher … low touchdown production considering his offensive touches … suffered two Grade-2 AC sprains as a junior, one in preseason camp (August 2021) and another vs. Maryland (September 2021).

SUMMARY: A three-year starter at Illinois, Brown was the lead back in offensive coordinator Barry Lunney’s zone-based run scheme. A Canada native, he leaves Illinois as the school’s No. 2 all-time leading rusher after a standout 2022 season, finishing second in the FBS in carries (328) and third in rushing yards per game (136.9). Built low to the ground, Brown feels the flow of pursuit and cuts against it with above-average balance, pacing and toughness. He wasn’t asked to run a variety of routes, but he catches the ball cleanly away from his frame when leaked out as a receiver. Overall, Brown has mediocre run strength and must continue to prove himself as a blocker, but his ability to pair his quick-scan vision with his controlled footwork should translate well to the next level. He projects as an NFL rotational back who will be ready when/if a starting opportunity arises.

58 career receptions, improvements as a blocker and receiver and fast (4.43 40 yard dash, 9.55 RAS, granted he skipped the agility drills). His RAS is affected by his height, but honestly I don't even see that as a bad thing for RBs. Helps them get lost behind Olinemen :).

This is my favorite part: " quickly taps into his top gear to create explosive runs (ranked No. 2 in the FBS with 48 runs of 10-plus yards in 2022) "