2010 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Toby Gerhart
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Strengths: Very big frame Excellent lower body strength Powerful runner Great vision; will identify cutbacks Beautiful, quick footwork Trucks on contact Gives good second effort Continues to pump feet on contact Loves and engages contact Terrific short-yardage runner Highly competitive Good character and work ethic Can handle the load Solid in pass protection with awareness
Weaknesses: Average speed and athleticism No agility or change of direction Not elusive in open field - won't avoid oncoming tacklers Doesn't have many moves outside of stiff arm Easy cover on wheels and screens Highly upright running style Could be more patient No second gear Not a homerun threat Not going to turn the corner at next level Lacks upside Mediocre ball security Not convinced he can lead block
Summary: The thing that really concerns me with Gerhart outside of his limited physical tools is his running style. He is very up-and-down, and NFL linebackers are going to have a free shot at his legs, which means he is going to be easier to tackle in the pros than he was in college against small linebackers that play with poor technique. He doesn't have the athleticism to be a No. 1 back, but he does have the skill to be an inside runner and end-zone threat for some team. Some might give him the Jerome Bettis comparison (that love him) and I see it a little bit, but ultimately I think there is a significant difference in talent level. Gerhart is a projected third- or fourth-round pick. A great Senior Bowl and a sub 4.5 40 could push him into late-second-round consideration.
Player Comparison: Ladell Betts. Perfect comparison. Betts is an inside, downhill runner with average athleticism.
RELATED LINKS:
2010 NFL Mock Draft: Matt's | Walt's
2010 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2010 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
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Weaknesses:
Summary: The thing that really concerns me with Gerhart outside of his limited physical tools is his running style. He is very up-and-down, and NFL linebackers are going to have a free shot at his legs, which means he is going to be easier to tackle in the pros than he was in college against small linebackers that play with poor technique. He doesn't have the athleticism to be a No. 1 back, but he does have the skill to be an inside runner and end-zone threat for some team. Some might give him the Jerome Bettis comparison (that love him) and I see it a little bit, but ultimately I think there is a significant difference in talent level. Gerhart is a projected third- or fourth-round pick. A great Senior Bowl and a sub 4.5 40 could push him into late-second-round consideration.
Player Comparison: Ladell Betts. Perfect comparison. Betts is an inside, downhill runner with average athleticism.
RELATED LINKS:
2010 NFL Mock Draft: Matt's | Walt's
2010 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2010 NFL Draft Scouting Reports