2021 NFL Draft: Virginia Tech RB Khalil Herbert has exciting upside

Virginia Tech running back Khalil Herbert must be taken seriously as a 2021 NFL Draft prospect.

Coming into the season, there was not much conversation about Khalil Herbert as a 2021 NFL Draft prospect. Herbert had solid, yet unspectacular production through his four years at Kansas, and decided to redshirt his final season to set up a grad transfer situation. Herbert eventually landed at Virginia Tech and through two games, he has been the star of their offensive attack.

In the season opener against NC State, Herbert made the most out of his few opportunities, piling up 104 rushing yards and a touchdown on only six carries. He also hauled in a 46-yard reception in that game. Last week against Duke, the Virginia Tech coaching staff gave Herbert more opportunity and he responded in a big way.

Herbert exploded onto the scene against Duke, carrying the ball 20 times for 208 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. He also had 150 kick return yards on three attempts, including an impressive 83-yard touchdown return. Simply put, Herbert was outstanding last weekend and was awarded as the ACC running back and specialist of the week for his performance.

Good season, but is Herbert a real 2021 NFL Draft prospect?

Herbert’s impressive start to the season has caught the attention of many, including us in the draft community. While I cannot say that I have dug deep into his game, last week’s performance made me curious. Is Khalil Herbert a real 2021 NFL Draft prospect who we should be paying close attention to? After watching both of his games from this season, one from 2019 and one from 2018, the answer to that question is yes.

While Herbert is not special in any one thing on the field, he appears to be a smart and patient back who understands how to let the play unfold and attack. He is quick around the line of scrimmage and shows good burst through the hole. Herbert is not the most explosive player in the open field, but he gets up to speed quickly and finishes strong.

With a solid overall combination of speed, quickness and contact balance, it is easy to see Herbert having a future at the next level. His ability to contribute on special teams does not hurt either. The biggest question right now is his ability as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. He only has 25 career receptions but does show some soft hands when given the opportunity.

Herbert is never going to push a guy like Travis Etienne at the top of the 2021 NFL Draft class, but he is a good, solid player who should undoubtedly be on the radar of teams later in the draft. I would like to see him show more as a receiver, but there is undoubtedly value in Herbert’s well-rounded skill-set with the ball in his hands. I am excited to see how he grows as a 2021 NFL Draft prospect throughout the rest of the season.