2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: DeMarco Murray

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Strengths:
  • Great size and speed
  • Physical, powerful runner
  • Accomplished receiver
  • Four years of experience
  • Solid production when healthy
  • Special teams value as returner
  • Versatility to fill various roles
  • Hard worker



    Weaknesses:
  • Laundry list of injuries
  • Running style leads to too many hits
  • Ball protection issues
  • Inexperienced in pass protection
  • Low career average per carry
  • Not an every-down back

    Summary: DeMarco Murray is the latest talented back to be produced by the Sooners. An injury delayed the start of his career in Norman and injuries plagued him throughout his college years. However, he did play through them as a senior to finish with 282 rushing attempts. He also has more than 5,000 total yards and 63 touchdowns on his ledger, which can't be ignored considering he played in the Big XII. Teams looking for a player to spark their passing game out of the backfield and support a durable starter should target Murray.

    Player Comparison: Reggie Bush. Like Bush, most of Murray's value will come as a receiving threat. At the NFL level Bush has struggled to stay healthy, just like Murray did at Oklahoma. Both can hurt a defense in a lot of different ways, including as returners.





    RELATED LINKS:


    2011 NFL Mock Draft: Greg's | Walt's


    2011 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings


    2011 NFL Draft Scouting Reports