2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Shane Vereen, Cal

Shane Vereen- RB – Cal

5-10 199 lbs. Junior

Stats:

2008 – 142 rushes, 715 yards, 5.0 ypc, 4 TD, 27 rec, 221 yards, 1 TD

2009 – 183 rushes, 952 yards, 5.2 ypc, 12TD, 25 rec, 244 yards, 2 TD

Pros:

He is a very thickly built running back. Runs with a low center of gravity and above average balance. Has good speed, if the defender doesn’t take the proper angle Shane Vereen will beat them to the corner every time. He plants and gets through the hole, but will wait for the blocks to set up as well. Is a capable receiver out of the backfield. Handles the kick return duties for the Cal Bears. Has ran the wildcat a few times. Has a certain confidence about him.

Cons:

Shane Vereen doesn’t break enough tackles in college to make me think he will be that kind of back in the NFL. He needs to use his speed to his advantage as the first tackler usually brings him down. Needs to use his hands to to fight off tacklers more often, the stiff arm would help him out tremendously. I can’t comment on his blocking skills because the tape I saw didn’t include any attempts.

Thoughts:

He reminds me of a poor man’s Ronnie Brown. Very thickly built, can run the wildcat, and has decent speed. He is a candidate to break out this year with Jahvid Best in to the NFL.

Projected Round:

Shane Vereen should be a 3rd to 4th round draft pick, it all depends on how well he handles the role of the number one back and if he decides to forego his Senior season.

-jcmadson also works for Integrity Sports Broadcasting Network out of Kansas City, MO.  Listen Live at www.ISBNteam.com, also follow him on twitter @isbnJMAD