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Toby Gerhart (Stanford) - 2010 NFL Draft Pick #51 by MIN


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Toby Gerhart (2010 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
  • Name: Toby Gerhart
  • College: Stanford University
  • Position: Running Back
  • Height: 6'0"
  • Weight: 231 lbs
Strengths:
  • Power Runner: Gerhart is known for his size and ability to break tackles. His strength allows him to push through defenders and gain extra yards.
  • Durability: He has a solid track record of durability and has proven he can handle a significant workload in a run-heavy offense.
  • Vision: Gerhart possesses good field vision, enabling him to find running lanes and make quick decisions during plays.
  • Blocking Ability: He is an effective blocker, which is a valuable asset in pass protection, allowing him to stay on the field in multiple situations.
Weaknesses:
  • Speed: While Gerhart is powerful, he lacks elite speed and burst that some other running backs possess, which could limit his effectiveness in outside runs.
  • Receiving Skills: His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield is considered below average compared to other top running back prospects, which may hinder his versatility.
  • Injury Concerns: Although he has been durable in college, there are concerns about how his physical style of running may lead to injuries at the professional level.
Overall Analysis:

Toby Gerhart was a highly productive running back at Stanford, having a standout senior season where he garnered significant attention as a potential NFL draft prospect. He won the Doak Walker Award, given to the nation's top running back, and finished as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. His combination of size, strength, and college production made him an intriguing option for NFL teams seeking a power back.

However, concerns about his speed and versatility in the passing game led some analysts to question whether he could be a three-down back in the league. Ultimately, teams would need to evaluate if Gerhart's skill set fit their offensive scheme and whether they could maximize his strengths while mitigating his weaknesses.