Chris Rodriguez Jr. NFL Draft Overview
Position: RB
Height: 6′-0″
Weight: 217 pounds
School: University of Kentucky
2023 NFL Draft: Chris Rodriguez Jr. Scouting Report
Chris Rodriguez Jr. enters the 2023 NFL draft after an extremely productive collegiate career at the University of Kentucky. Rodriguez was a shifty, powerful, and workhorse-style running back for the Wildcats. He slowly ascended the depth chart after redshirting his freshman year and only contributed in three games in 2018. In each subsequent season, Rodriguez would only see his playing time and opportunities increase. In 2019 he was the backup to Asim Rose yet still started in all 13 games, rushing for 533 yards and six touchdowns. Rodriguez took over the starting role in 2020 and this is when he started to blossom as a runner and in the passing game. His best season came in 2021 when he started 12 games amassing 1379 rushing yards with nine touchdowns and earning second-team All-SEC honors.
Strengths
- Two-time team captain;
- Strong build;
- Has the ability to gain the extra yard;
- Hits hard upon first contact;
- Quickly reaches the second level of the defense;
- Effective downhill runner;
- Has very good feet and balance;
- Can play special teams;
- Above average pass blocker.
Weaknesses
- Lacks burst at the line of scrimmage;
- Plays tight at times;
- Has change of direction issues against athletic defenders;
- Only has one gear;
- Plays with a high pad level too often;
- Inconsistent when facing better competition.
NFL Comparison: Benny Snell Jr.
Teams With Need At Position: Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, Denver Broncos, Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears
Projection: Rounds 5-6
Bottom Line on Chris Rodriguez Jr.
The bottom line on Rodriguez is he might struggle initially with the speed of NFL-level defenders, especially linebackers. Rodriguez’s calling card is the ability to be effective on early downs and get the tough yards on crucial downs. His vision and patience are solid and will help in adapting to his rookie season. Rodriguez is versatile and can play both in a zone or gap-blocking scheme. This ability will help him find a role on several teams, and he will have to impress coaches early on with his power to gain a backup or special teams role. His best fit is being drafted by a contending team where he can learn behind a veteran running back to hone the skills necessary to become a more complete player.
*Stats and research courtesy of NFL.com and The Draft Network (TDN).
Main Photo: Vasha Hunt – USA TODAY Sports
