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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Wendell Smallwood (West Virginia) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #153 by PHI

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Wendell Smallwood (2016 NFL Draft)

College: West Virginia

Position: Running Back

Height/Weight: 5'10", 201 lbs

Overview:

Wendell Smallwood was a standout running back at West Virginia, showcasing a combination of speed, agility, and vision that made him a sought-after prospect in the 2016 NFL Draft. After a productive college career, he entered the draft as a player with significant upside and potential to contribute at the professional level.

Strengths:

  • Vision: Smallwood demonstrated excellent field vision, allowing him to navigate through traffic and find running lanes.
  • Quickness: His quick acceleration and agility helped him evade defenders and make explosive plays.
  • Receiving Ability: Smallwood was a capable pass-catcher out of the backfield, providing versatility in offensive schemes.
  • Durability: He displayed a strong work ethic and durability throughout his college career, handling a significant workload.

Weaknesses:

  • Size: At 5'10", some scouts questioned whether he had the ideal size for an every-down back in the NFL.
  • Blocking: Smallwood needed to improve his pass protection skills to handle the demands of the pro game.
  • Consistency: While he had standout performances, there were games where he struggled to find running room.

Draft Projection:

Wendell Smallwood was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2016 NFL Draft, with potential as a change-of-pace back or a third-down option in a committee approach. His blend of speed and versatility made him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their backfield.

Conclusion:

Smallwood's ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable prospect in the 2016 NFL Draft. While there were questions about his size and consistency, his skill set offered teams a dynamic player who could thrive in the right offensive scheme.