2019 NFL Draft Scouting Report: RB Darrell Henderson, Memphis

With a sneaky good running back class, there is plenty of talent in the mid-rounds that can present great value. Here is the spotlight on a prospect with great pro potential, Memphis running back Darrell Henderson.

The 2019 NFL Draft class of running backs is a unique class, especially with the continuous placement that is “running back position is valueless” hanging over the NFL.

While it may not be top heavy where you have your franchise, game-changing backs such as an Ezekiel Elliott or a Todd Gurley, there are a number of running backs that fulfill a team’s void at the position and solidify it.

One of those backs so happens to be one of my favorite players in the entire draft. Today, we will place Memphis running back Darrell Henderson under the microscope, and examine his game.

Darrell Henderson Measurables 

Height: 5’9 

Weight: 205 lbs 

Career stats: 431 rushes, 3,545 yards, 36 TDs; 63 receptions, 758 yards, eight TDs 

Strengths: The first item that is quite obvious when viewing Henderson’s film is his swift burst/acceleration; attacks running lanes with intentions on generating big lanes…Creates difficulty in establishing pursuit angles due to his quick foot speed and ability to change direction instantly…Rarely establishes false movements as a runner…31 rushing touchdowns in the past two seasons; career rushing average of 8.2 yards per carry…Consistent big play producer; can turn a minimal gain on a handoff into an 75-yard touchdown in a flash…Tends to get skinny as a runner and can effectively squeeze through narrow spaces by defenders…Brings a little special teams value with experience as a kick returner.

Weaknesses: Squatty frame as a running back; added weight could hinder his overall athleticism…Does not have a “power game” element and may not a fit in short-yardage situations…Not the best hands in the world when he becomes a receiver…Pass protection can be an issue, especially at the next level with bigger, faster defenders to deal with…Plenty of questions regardless to his overall play balance; lacking in absorbing hits and still maintain balance to keep plays alive.

Conclusion: If Henderson was a member of the SEC or the ACC, his name would be heard of more often.

For his three seasons at Memphis, Henderson was a productive machine. A big play is always a possibility when Henderson has the ball in the hands. Defenses may very well get annoyed in the trying to slow down Henderson. He simply does a lot of good things that allows him to standout above many in the same running back class in the 2019 NFL Draft.

Also of note, Henderson will be a day one, game one contributor to an NFL. A lack of size will turn off some NFL teams but while he comes up short in that department, Henderson can help elevate an offense. It appears that day two of the NFL Draft is where you will find him.

The potential is there for Henderson to be steal whenever a team selects him.