10. La’mical Perine, Florida
Height: 5’11” Weight: 216
40-Yard Dash: 4.62 seconds
Bench Press: 22 reps
Vertical Jump: 35.0 inches
Broad Jump: 118.0 inches
3-Cone Drill: 7.13 seconds
20-Yard Shuttle: 4.31 seconds
60-Yard Shuttle: N/A
Bio: Perine never gained 1,000 yards in any season through four years for the Gators, but he also never had more than 136 carries in a season. His big breakout came during the Senior Bowl game, when he ran seven times for 62 yards and caught two passes for 17 yards, including a 16-yard touchdown reception from Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert. Perine’s last game for Florida — a 36-28 win for the Gators over Virginia — showed his ability to save the best for last. In that game, Perine ran the ball 13 times for 138 yards and two touchdowns, adding five catches for 43 yards and another score.
“A guy who can catch the ball out of the backfield, pass protect, anything,” Perine said of himself at the scouting combine. “I am a competitor and I feel like that is one of the biggest things they taught me at Florida, just to be able to compete. A lot of teams pretty much know I can run the ball, so they were also happy to see me catch the ball out of the backfield. You can’t be one-dimensional in this game, I feel like you have to be able to do everything and that is one of my biggest traits. I am not just a one-dimensional guy, I am able to catch the ball out of the backfield and do everything the NFL wants these days. I feel like I can contribute really early.”
Stat to Know: Perine has the ability to make plays as a runner and receiver, but he could use work in making bigger plays. Last season, he tied for 146th among backs in missed tackles forced (24), tied for 183rd in carries of 15 yards or more (7), and ranked 99th in yards after contact. Yes, he had just 132 carries in 2019, but it’s still a concern.
Strengths: Subtly sustaining back and receiver with intriguing production despite the lack of a signature move. Plays with an edge to blow off tackles and make plays in the open field as well as possible. Best on screens and pitchouts when he can use his low-to-the-ground running style and understanding of the passing game to help his offense. A great between-the-tackles back for his size due to vision and acceleration. Uses contact balance to generate yards after contact.
Weaknesses: Perine absolutely runs with an attitude, though that doesn’t always translate to extra yards. More smooth and methodical than violent and explosive in his running style. Pass protection is a work in progress.
Conclusion: While Perine isn’t the most spectacular back in this class, he is a hard-working player who will bring the best of what he’s got for his NFL team. He would be an excellent mid-round option for that alone.
NFL Comparison: Rashaad Penny. The Seahawks took Penny in the first round of the first round of the 2018 draft with the thought that he could be the versatile back they wanted as they transitioned to the post-Marshawn Lynch era. Like Penny, Perine doesn’t attack you with a bunch of overt traits, but he is a good sustainer who can add value to a multi-faceted offensive scheme.
Moss | Swift | Taylor | Edwards-Helaire | Dobbins | Akers |
Benjamin | Dillon | Evans | Perine | Gibson