Daniel Lasco, RB, Cal: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Marred by an injury-laden senior year, running back Daniel Lasco is an extremely under-the radar prospect. Lasco garnered All-PAC-12 honorable mention accolades in 2014, amassing 1,471 all-purpose yards, as well as 17 rushing and two receiving touchdowns.
There was a lot of hype leading up to his final campaign, but hip and ankle injuries only allowed Lasco to make three starts.
However, a strong combine performance has the former Golden Bear back on draft boards.
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Measurables
Height: 6-0
Weight: 209 lbs
40-yard dash: 4.46 seconds
Broad Jump: 11’3″ (Combine record)
Strengths
First and foremost, Lasco’s combine performance must be addressed. He registered, one of, if not the best combine performance of all running back this year. The Cal alum was among the tops in the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump and 60-yard shuttle run.
This shows that his physical abilities are there, and just need to be harnessed.
Check out this video of Lasco going against Colorado in 2014. He totaled 200 all-purpose yards in the game, including a school-record 92 yard touchdown catch, which occurs at the 2:11 mark.
As you can see from that play, and others, he has great strength and balance. Lasco also has solid breakaway speed and a quick first step.
Operating out of a shotgun set for most plays at Cal, he can make sharp cuts up field and is effective as a receiver.
Weaknesses
The big issue scouts have with Lasco is his health. He has suffered multiple injuries through his career, most notably his hip, and many question if they will reoccur.
Playing out of the shotgun formation for the past four seasons also means he is not the best at running in between the tackles.
In terms of playing style, Lasco struggles once there is contact. He needs to improve on fighting for extra yardage while in the midst of defenders.
Outlook
Daniel Lasco could be a diamond in the rough. If he can stay healthy (which is a big if), then he can find a niche as a situational/third-down back in the NFL.
His strong combine performance caught front offices by storm, which certainly helped his draft stock. If Lasco stayed healthy as a senior, he could have been a mid to late round pick, but he will most likely be signed as an UDFA.