The NFL draft is this Thursday, and Alabama will be well represented with a plethora of talented players leaving for the league. Heisman winner Derrick Henry tops the list of potential running backs who will be drafted, but Alabama has another running back who looks to make an impact in the league.
Though suffering injuries during his tenure at Alabama, running back Kenyan Drake, has shown time and time again that he is a dynamic play maker. Draft analysts list Drake as a mid to late round pick.
Let’s take a look at his pros and cons, and find a pro comparison for Drake.
Pros
Drake is electric. He is constantly moving his feet trying to make plays. His elusiveness stands out, especially playing next to more of a power back like Henry. He has numerous moves to evade defenders in the open field. Though he is not as powerful as Derrick Henry, Drake still keeps his legs moving through contact to fight for an extra yard. He moves well laterally, showing the ability to bounce plays to the outside. He has shown that he can be very effective as a slot receiver, making big catches. Drake is very effective as a return man.
Cons
The real downfall in Drake’s game is his lack of patience on the field. At times, he tries to make too much happen. He should wait for the play to unfold before him instead of trying to predict his next move. Drops are a concern (five drops to 44 catches in his career). Sometimes “dances” around instead of committing to one direction. Has suffered a broken leg and arm.
Pro Comparison
In terms of capability and value, he could make a name for himself like play maker Darren Sproles has. Although he is larger than Sproles, he is just as shifty, elusive and electrifying. Drake can be a late round steal. He can step into a program, act as a return, and make an impact immediately. He is versatile and has value in a pass happy league, where one dimensional running backs fade away at times.
Blain Bradley is a contributor for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “Follow” him on Twitter, via @blainbradley1 or “like” him on Facebook
