Samaje Perine (Oklahoma) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #114 by WAS
Pre-Draft Analysis for Samaje Perine (2017 NFL Draft)
Player Overview:
Samaje Perine was a standout running back at the University of Oklahoma, known for his powerful running style and impressive production during his college career. He gained national attention for setting the NCAA single-game rushing record with 427 yards against New Mexico State in 2014.
Strengths:
- Powerful Runner: Perine is known for his physical running style, able to break tackles and gain yards after contact.
- Durability: He demonstrated the ability to handle a heavy workload throughout his college career, showcasing his stamina and toughness.
- Vision: Perine exhibited excellent field vision, allowing him to read blocks and find running lanes effectively.
- Speed: While not the fastest back, he possesses adequate speed to break off long runs, particularly in the open field.
Weaknesses:
- Injury History: Perine had some injury concerns during his college years, including a knee injury that raised red flags for NFL teams.
- Receiving Skills: His ability as a pass-catcher was seen as a potential limitation, as he had fewer receptions than some of his peers.
- Top-End Speed: While he has good acceleration, there were concerns about his breakaway speed against NFL competition.
Overall Assessment:
Samaje Perine was viewed as a solid prospect heading into the 2017 NFL Draft, with the potential to be a reliable contributor at the next level. His combination of power and durability made him an appealing option for teams looking for a between-the-tackles runner. However, his injury history and questions surrounding his receiving ability could impact his draft stock.
Projected Draft Round: 2nd to 4th Round