Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Vick Ballard (Mississippi St.) - 2012 NFL Draft Pick #170 by IND


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Vick Ballard - 2012 NFL Draft

Player Profile: Vick Ballard
College: Mississippi State
Position: Running Back
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 224 lbs

Strengths:

  • Power Runner: Ballard is known for his physical running style, able to break tackles and gain yards after contact.
  • Vision: He displays good field vision, allowing him to find lanes and make quick decisions when running the ball.
  • Durability: His size and build contribute to his ability to withstand the rigors of the running back position.
  • Blocking Ability: Ballard is a competent pass protector, which is a valuable trait for a running back in the NFL.

Weaknesses:

  • Speed: While Ballard has good power, he lacks elite top-end speed, which may limit his ability to break away from defenders.
  • Receiving Skills: His effectiveness as a receiver out of the backfield is still a work in progress, and he may need to improve his hands and route running.

Overall Assessment:

Vick Ballard was projected as a solid mid-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. His ability to run between the tackles and contribute in pass protection made him an attractive option for teams looking for a reliable, power running back. While he may not have the breakaway speed of some of his peers, his toughness and ability to gain tough yards could make him a valuable asset in a committee backfield.

Projected Draft Round:

3rd to 5th Round