Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: 2018 NFL Scouting Report

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 08: Nick Chubb (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 08: Nick Chubb (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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After falling short in the College Football National Championship, Nick Chubb will now turn his attention to preparing for the 2018 NFL Draft.

Coming out of high school, Nick Chubb was a highly sought-after five-star recruit who would commit to his home-state Georgia Bulldogs. As the No. 33 overall prospect, Chubb came to the Bulldogs with a ton of hype, labeled as someone who would have an immediate impact on the field.

By the end of his freshman season, he did not disappoint. Chubb finished the 2014 season with 1,547 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, good for 17th in the nation. The expectations rose for his sophomore campaign.
By the end of his freshman season, he did not disappoint. Chubb finished the 2014 season with 1,547 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, good for 17th in the nation. The expectations rose for his sophomore campaign. /

However, an unfortunate knee injury would cut his season short. While he did suffer damage to multiple ligaments and cartilage, he did not injure his ACL. He would spend the rest of the year rehabilitating and preparing for his junior year.

While he split duties in the backfield, Chubb would finish his Junior season with 1,130 yards and eight touchdowns. In 2017 he seemed back to his normal self, finishing with 1,345 yards and 15 touchdowns. While the injury will undoubtedly linger for some time, Chubb has repositioned himself as one of the top running back prospects in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Chubb looks to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Alabama in the National Championship as he prepares for the combine. One one of the more exciting players to watch in college football, Chubb will put his talents on full display throughout the coming months.

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Measurables

Height: 5’10”

Weight: 225 lbs

Year: Senior

Hometown: Cedartown, GA

Strengths

Chubb has proven he is capable of being a workhorse back in the NFL, demonstrating a well-rounded skill set. He is a powerful runner who fights off tacklers and isn’t afraid to hit would-be defenders. He shows incredible vision and deceptive quickness, quickly locating open lanes and exploding through them.

He has a nice change of direction, showing good feet and balance. While he certainly works the edge, Chubb thrives as a downhill runner between the tackles. He should produce in multiple offensive schemes, increasing his appeal around the league. He’s been very productive at Georgia, amassing 6,114 rushing yards and 44 touchdowns, averaging 6.55 yards per carry.

His combination of power, quickness, and vision should attract NFL teams to draft him early in this years draft.

Weaknesses

Chubb’s injury occurred over two years ago, but knee injuries can take a long time to heal. He’ll need to prove to teams that he has fully recovered and won’t be hampered by any lingering effects moving forward.

While there aren’t many flaws in his ability as a rusher, Chubb will need to improve in pass protection before he can be trusted as a full three-down back.

He’s not always willing to get his hands dirty and will need to develop his technique.

Since his injury, Chubb has failed to produce much through the air, totaling 13 receptions in three seasons.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft

Chubb is an easy choice to go in the second round and should challenge for playing time right away. His deficiencies in the pass game are easily overshadowed by his ability to carry the ball and should a productive member of most NFL offenses. Chubb carries a lot of intrigue and will be one of the top running back prospects when the draft begins.

While questions regarding his injury will likely hover over him until he’s cleared medically at the combine, he should be one of the first players at his position off the board.