Marlon Mack (South Florida) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #143 by IND
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Marlon Mack - Pre-Draft Analysis for the 2017 NFL Draft
College: South Florida
Position: Running Back
Height/Weight: 6'0", 213 lbs
Overview
Marlon Mack entered the 2017 NFL Draft as one of the more intriguing running back prospects. Known for his speed and explosiveness, Mack showcased his skills during his time at South Florida, where he became a key offensive weapon for the Bulls.
Strengths
- Speed: Mack possesses elite straight-line speed, allowing him to break away from defenders in the open field.
- Vision: He has a natural ability to read blocks and find running lanes, which contributes to his big-play potential.
- Elusiveness: Mack is known for his agility and ability to make defenders miss, making him a threat on any carry.
- Production: He had a productive college career, amassing over 3,600 rushing yards and 32 rushing touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to carry the load.
Weaknesses
- Pass Protection: Mack needs to improve his skills in pass protection, as he has struggled to pick up blitzes at times.
- Receiving Skills: While he has shown some ability as a receiver, his route running and hands can be inconsistent.
- Durability: Concerns about his durability arose due to a few injuries during his college career, which could affect his longevity in the NFL.
Draft Projection
As the 2017 NFL Draft approached, Mack was projected to be a mid-round pick, with potential to be selected in the third or fourth round. His combination of speed and production made him an attractive option for teams looking to enhance their backfield.
Overall
Marlon Mack's blend of speed, vision, and playmaking ability made him a standout prospect in the 2017 NFL Draft. While he had areas to improve, particularly in pass protection and receiving, his potential to be an explosive running back at the next level was undeniable.