In a deep running back class, certain prospects get lost in the mix. Kyle Monangai lacks flashy athletic traits, but his downhill running style and physicality make him a sleeper in this draft. Monangai was one of the most productive backs in the nation in each of the last two seasons. Kyle Monangai is a physical running back whose scouting report shows a high motor and the ball security that NFL teams crave.
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Overview, Film Analysis, and 2025 Scouting Report of Rutgers Running Back Kyle Monangai
Measurables
Height: 5’8”
Weight: 211 lbs
Player Background
Football runs in the family for Kyle Monangai. His older brother, Kevin Monangai, played running back for Villanova before a brief stint in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Raised in Roseland, New Jersey, Kyle Monangai played high school football for Don Bosco Prep. He was rated as a three-star recruit by 247Sports, and he received offers from Air Force, Buffalo, and Army among others. Monangai instead chose to accept an offer from Rutgers.
In his freshman season, Monangai waited his turn as current Kansas City Chiefs back Isaiah Pacheco held the starting role. Monangai contributed primarily on special teams. By 2023, he became the focal point of Rutgers’ offense. Monangai rushed for 1,262 yards and eight touchdowns. The following season, he maintained his level of production with 1,279 yards and 13 touchdowns. Monangai was selected to the All-Big Ten team in each of his final two seasons with the Scarlet Knights.
Strengths
Kyle Monangai never takes a play off. His motor runs hot on every opportunity he gets. Despite his relatively small frame, he is a physical runner who does not shy away from contact. Monangai’s low center of gravity and constant forward momentum allow him to consistently pick up extra yardage after contact. In 2024, he picked up 862 yards after contact. In over 600 collegiate carries, Monangai has never fumbled the football.
Monangai shows quick lateral change of direction. He bursts through holes and gets to his top speed almost immediately. He uses sharp cuts in the open field to make defenders miss. Monangai is a physical pass protector, often holding up against much larger defenders.
Weaknesses
Due to his downhill running style, Monangai often misses available cutback lanes. He occasionally lacks necessary patience behind developing blocks. Monangai lacks breakaway speed despite his quick acceleration. He was rarely used as a receiver at Rutgers. In four seasons with the Scarlet Knights, Monangai never had more than 14 receptions. This raises questions about his route running and catching ability.
Potential Team Fits
NFL Projection
This is the type of back that NFL coaches love. Monangai’s high motor and physical running style will make him a valuable prospect. His lack of elite athleticism limits his ceiling, but Monangai could thrive behind a capable offensive line in the NFL. His proficiency in pass protection gives him three-down potential. Kyle Monangai is a fourth-round talent, but he could fall in this draft due to the depth of the running back class.
Main Image: Kirby Lee – USA Today Sports
