Can CJ Spiller Handle the Load?

Can CJ Spiller Handle the Load?

Looking at this year’s running back crop there is no doubt that CJ Spiller is the most explosive.  Spiller is expected to go in the top 15 in the 2010 NFL Draft but some are wondering if he is worthy.  While no one questions Spiller’s playmaking ability there are many who are concerned about his durability.  Below we are going to examine Spiller’s ability to be an every down back in the NFL.

CJ Spiller is a dynamic playmaker with tons of speed and reliable hands.  He is a threat to go the distance every time he touches the ball but how often can he actually touch the ball?  Throughout Spiller’s career at Clemson he battled injuries and split carries with other running backs.  Last season Spiller carried the ball a career high 216 times.  In the NFL Spiller could be asked to carry the ball a lot more than 216 times, and teams are worried if he will break down over the long NFL season.  For example, last season Thomas Jones of the Jets carried the ball 331 times and Chris Johnson got the ball 358 times.  Those numbers are a lot higher than Spiller’s 216 carries.

Spiller’s carry numbers don’t look so back when compared to the other top running back prospects in this year’s NFL draft.  Ryan Matthews (Fresno State) carried the ball 276 times, Jonathan Dwyer (Georgia Tech) had 235 carries, and Javhid Best (California) had 141 carries.  What these numbers tell me is that every college running back will need to adjust to the length of the NFL season.

Overall I think this is something teams need to be concerned about but if the right game plan is developed Spiller could be a game changer.  The ideal situation for Spiller would be joining a team that has another option at the running back position.  He would best compliment a team with a big powerful running back.  However, I do feel that Spiller could handle more carries if he is needed.