The 2020 NFL Combine continued their on-field drills on Friday night, this time featuring offensive linemen and running backs. As always, the workouts begin with the 40-yard-dash, and when they shifted into position drills, we got to see a handful of new drills.
The Lions’ interest in adding a running back could vary depending on their confidence in the health of Kerryon Johnson and Bo Scarbrough. Don’t be surprised if the Lions patiently wait for value and would be willing to add a ball carrier on Day 2 or 3. Let’s take a look at those who earned positive marks today.
Jonathan Taylor, Wisconsin
5-10, 226, 40 y/d: 4.39, Vertical: 36″, Broad: 10-3
After back-to-back 2,000+ yard rushing seasons, Taylor had entered the 2020 NFL Combine with an impressive resume. Friday night added fuel to the fire after he ran a position group leading 4.39 40-yard-dash (at 226 pounds) and looked stellar in on-field drills. Longterm, teams will be concerned about the wear and tear his college career had on his body, and he may not fill some teams desire to acquire a more agile back, but his combination of vision, quick feet, power, and long speed will have him in the conversation to be the first running back selected.
Cam Akers, Florida State
5-10.5, 217, 40 y/d: 4.47, Vertical: 35.5″, Broad 10-2
Akers was dynamic in the on-field drills, reminding people that he has the skill set to hear his name early on Day 2 of the draft. Jump cuts, speed cuts, quick feet, Akers handled them all with precision. He also put his natural hands on display, routinely making catches, including a sweet one-hander in the flat.
A.J. Dillon, Boston College
6-0.5, 247, 40 y/d: 4.52, Vertical 41″, Broad: 10-11
The Lions value running backs with explosive traits. Kerryon Johnson and Bo Scarbrough both had vertical jumps of 40″ and broad jumps of at least 10-5, and the only running back in this class to match those high marks was Dillion. Add in his size, 247-pounds, power running style, and aggressive downhill mentality and it’s easy to project Dillion in the Lions offensive scheme. There is some concern surrounding his heavy usage at Boston College, and his pass protection skills need some attention, but he showed in on-field drills at the Combine that he has a bright NFL future.
Darrynton Evans, Appalachian State
5-10, 203, 40 y/d: 4.41, Vertical: 37″, Broad: 10-5
If the Lions are looking for a more balanced runner, who can carve out a role as a third-down back — he’s a terrific pass blocker — and special teams player, yet still have the upside to develop into an every-down player, then Evans should be on their radar. He showed quick feet, long speed, balance, and reliable hands during the on-field drills.
Notes:
- On the broadcast, Daniel Jeremiah called DeeJay Dallas (5-10, 217, Miami) “The best pass protecting back in the draft class in my opinion”.
- Don’t worry too much about the 4.6 40-yard-dash by Clyde Edwards-Helaire (5-7, 207, LSU) he showed great explosion and quickness and is still one of the top backs in this class.