2021 NFL Draft prospects to watch: Big Ten Conference
By Kyle Edmond
Michigan State – Elijah Collins, Running Back, Redshirt Sophomore
Although Elijah Collins obviously won’t have to come out after next season, the option will be there and if he can repeat his 2019 season, the consideration could be there. From Shonn Greene to Le’Veon Bell, Michigan State has made a name for themselves for producing running back talent. Despite the well seeming dry of late, Collins could reverse that in the near future.
After just having eight yards on two carries as a true freshman, Collins redshirted and returned with a vengeance in 2019. As a redshirt freshman, he led the Spartans in rushing yards, going for 988 on the ground and adding 99 in receiving yards. Additionally, he had five rushing touchdowns as well as five receiving touchdowns.
If Collins can continue to make strides as an all-purpose back, his value will continue to rise. With the league seeing what Christian McCaffrey can do in Carolina, teams will look to replicate that in their offense, and with an even break on touchdowns, Collins is taking shape to be on the list of backs that have the ability to do just that. No matter when he comes out, Collins will on the top of a lot of draft boards as a potential game-altering player.