2022 NFL Draft: Breece Hall Leads Preseason RB Rankings

9. Kevin Harris, South Carolina

South Carolina running back Kevin Harris got limited carries as a freshman due to a groin injury, but broke out as a sophomore, running for 1,138 yards and 15 touchdowns to just one fumble. It’s easy to realize how high the expectations will be for Harris as he enters his junior campaign.

At 5’10” and 225 pounds, Harris profiles well as an early down back for the 2022 NFL Draft. He’s excellent running behind his pads, staying very square to handle contact, dropping his pads when necessary and displaying very good balance during collisions. He’s got wide strides and good short area explosion and burst to surprise linebackers with how quick he reaches the second level. Harris shows very good stamina on long runs and has good patience near the line of scrimmage. He has good hands and is a good asset in pass protection.

Harris isn’t incredibly elusive and runs better in a straight line rather than trying to maneuver horizontally with moves in space. He prefers to run through would-be tacklers rather than around them. He doesn’t have much of a route tree and likely won’t have much receiving production at the next level. It’s also notable that Harris had a majority of carries out of the shotgun and in counter running looks.

He’s got the early down role locked up, which will generate some value for Harris in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Grade: 3rd/4th Round (90-120)