2022 NFL Draft: Is Iowa State RB Breece Hall the preseason RB1?

Strengths of Hall’s Game

Hall has a lot of traits that will translate to the NFL level. Despite being more of an upright runner, Hall plays with very good balance. He doesn’t often go down at first contact and does a good job maintain balance when would-be tacklers swipe at him low. Hall has very good leg drive through contact as well to pick up extra yardage, and isn’t afraid to lower the pads at contact either. He also has a pretty good stiff arm.

More often than not, Hall will make the first defender miss, whether it be in space or between the tackles. This is a result of his processing speed and improvisational deception. Hall has a great understanding of how to set up defenders with precise footwork, while also proving to not be predictable and keep defenders guessing. The improvisation comes in with multiple moves, whether it be hesitation, jabs, or an occasional spin move. His spatial awareness helps with this as well. Being able to create like that is important in the NFL.

That mental processing comes into play between the tackles as well, as Hall has good recognition skills to notice cutback lanes to pick up chunk yardage. The combination of processing and quickness is a tough combination for defenders to handle.

Hall’s patience is also something that stands out, as he often waits for a crease to open before attacking downhill. Hall also possesses adequate burst when he locates a lane, and very good stamina on big runs, making him tough to catch in open space.