2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Evan Royster, Penn State
By Editorial Staff
6-1 209lbsSenior
Stats:
2007- 82 carries, 513 yards, 5 touchdowns
2008- 191 carries, 1236yards, 12 touchdowns
2009- 205 carries, 1169 yards, 6 touchdowns
Pros:
Evan Royster enters the 2011 season as one of the top Senior running backs in college football. He choose to come back this year to try and solidify his draft stock. Royster is a tough runner that excels at breaking tackles and getting every possible yard. He has been extremely durable during his career at Penn State. Royster has very good instincts and is able to find the open holes by reading defenses. He is a shifty runner and has the capability to break off long runs. Royster is an excellent pass blocker which is a very important skill in the NFL.
Cons:
Royster has the build to be a workhorse running back but he hasn’t had a chance to show that, while at Penn State. His career high in carries is 205 and while that is a good number, he will be expected to carry the ball a lot more in the NFL. During his career Royster has had several long runs but there are questions about his overall speed. Royster is going to have to run a good 40 time to ease the scouts questions.
Thoughts:
Royster has the ability and football IQ to be a exceptional running back in the NFL. He needs to have a strong Senior season and run a good 40 yard dash to improve his draft stock. It is going to be difficult for Royster to top his 205 carries from last year, due to the fact that Penn State has several good running backs. Royster is currently #17 on our 2011 NFL Draft Big Board.
Projected Round:
Right now Royster is a fringe first round prospect but solidify his position in the first round with a good season. However, if he struggles he could slip to the 2nd round.