Jalin Marshall, RB, Ohio State: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Ohio State has a lot of big time players entering the draft this year.  Guys like Joey Bosa, Michael Thomas, Zeke Elliott, Vonn Bell, among many others dominate the draft conversation when it comes to this Big Ten powerhouse.  That might be part of the reason that people haven’t been talking much about Jalin Marshall.  He isn’t in the same class as some of the other OSU stars, but that doesn’t mean that he won’t make an impact on an NFL roster next year.

Height: 5’10

Weight: 200 lbs

40 yard dash: 4.6 

20 yard shuttle: 4.13

Bench press: 16 reps

Strengths

Marshall’s most valuable asset is probably his versatility.   He does a little bit of everything, lining up as receiver, running back, and a return man.  While versatile, I believe Marshall does have a defined position as a pass catching running back (despite not getting much playing time there in college).  Offensive coordinators could have a lot of fun with Marshall’s skill set.

In terms of messurables Marshall is decent all the way around.  Strong enough to run through arm tackles,  Fast enough to get to the outside.  Explosive enough to get to top speed quickly and create separation.  The only area where Marshall is physically exceptional is in his quick feet.  He has top notch agility, which is what makes him such and effective kick returner and elusive runner.

*See all these traits on display in the highlight reel below

Weaknesses

Marshall was very underwhelming in college.  To be exact, he had exactly two carries in 2015 and only 36 receptions for 477 yards last season.  I believe that another year in college would have done him a lot of good, as opposed to leaving for the NFL as a redshirt sophomore.

While most of Marshall’s physical traits are okay, he only has the only elite level skill.  His speed is average to below average for a third down type of RB.  His physicality doesn’t live up to his strength.  It’s not that guys with the same physical skill set as Marshall haven’t made it in the NFL, such as Theo Riddick for example, but nothing about him really stands out on film.

Marshall projects as a running back at the next level, but he has very little experience at that position.  He only has 27 career carries at Ohio State, many of which coming while he was put in motion and not as a traditional RB.  He will basically have to learn all the nuances of the position, thus making Marshall a bit of a project.

Overview

Marshall brings really good versatility to the table.  However, he also brings average athleticism, limited experience, and a track record of not putting up impressive numbers.  With some coaching, I think he could turn into a quality third down back and a contributor on special teams.  I don’t expect him to ever develop elite athleticism and I seriously doubt he’ll ever be a featured back.  Look for a team to take a flyer on him around the sixth round or so.