2019 NFL Draft Scouting Report: RB Justice Hill, Oklahoma State

One of the better backs in the 2019 NFL Draft, here is the scouting report on Oklahoma State’s Justice Hill. 

Living up to the lofty expectations placed on the program by one of the greatest players in NFL history is a mountain of a task. Despite that, Oklahoma State University’s Justice Hill found a way to carve a nice niche during his three seasons in Stillwater.

As Hill enters the 2019 NFL Draft, he has himself placed in a running back class that is not amongst the best positions in the entire draft. However, Hill has an established reputation as a playmaker amongst the rest of the running back class in this draft.

Let’s dive into what makes Hill the player he is today.

Justice Hill Measurables 

Height: 5’10 

Weight: 195 lbs 

Career Stats: 632 rushes, 3,539 rushing yards, 30 TDs; 49 receptions, 304 yards, TD 

Strengths: Productive back from the moment he stepped on campus with almost 1,200 total scrimmage yards during his freshman season in 2016…An elusive back with enough wiggle to make defenders miss in one-on-one situations…Strong cutback ability, will establish his plant leg with authority and cuts back effectively…Good balance as a runner between the tackles, despite not being a physical runner…Displays the ability to get north/south when the opportunity presents itself…When Hill finds green grass, he has the burst to get past defenders and create a long gain/touchdowns…Pass protection is decent and there is room to improve but Hill exhibits effort in that aspect which coaches will appreciate.

Weaknesses: Upright running style can lead to ball handling issues at the next level…An undersized back by NFL standards in today’s game, will have questions regarding his workload going forward…While he recorded 49 career catches, Hill does not have the most reliable hands in the pass catching department…Shows a burst but does not have top-end speed and can get tracked down by defenders.

Conclusion: The running back class of the 2019 NFL Draft is not one of the most standout positions in the draft but there is good value.

Hill is an overall solid back that can be a very useful weapon for an offense as a change-of-pace type. Questions will remain as to whether or not Hill can be a lead back in an offense because of his size.

In an offense that is known for its passing prowess, Hill was able to produce in his own right and establish balance. Late Day 2 and early on Day 3 appears to be his presumed target area.

The drafting of Hill can help solidify a team’s backfield and make the run game noticeably stronger.