Nyheim Hines (North Carolina St.) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #104 by IND
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Nyheim Hines (2018 NFL Draft)
College: North Carolina State University
Position: Running Back
Height/Weight: 5'8", 198 lbs
Overview
Nyheim Hines emerged as one of the most dynamic playmakers during his time at North Carolina State. With a combination of speed, agility, and receiving skills, he positioned himself as a versatile threat on the field, which made him an intriguing candidate for the NFL Draft.
Strengths
- Speed and Acceleration: Hines possesses elite straight-line speed, making him a constant home-run threat. His quick acceleration allows him to burst through holes and outrun defenders.
- Receiving Ability: Demonstrating excellent hands and route-running skills, Hines is capable of being a reliable target in the passing game, showcasing his ability to contribute as a third-down back.
- Agility: His agility and ability to change direction quickly make him difficult to tackle in the open field.
- Return Skills: Hines has experience as a kick and punt returner, adding value as a special teams player.
Weaknesses
- Size: At 5'8", Hines lacks the prototypical size of an NFL running back, which raises questions about his durability and ability to handle a heavy workload.
- Pass Protection: He needs to improve his blocking skills to be reliable in pass protection, as this can limit his opportunities on the field.
- Consistency: While he had standout performances, he showed inconsistency in his overall production at times during his college career.
Conclusion
Nyheim Hines entered the 2018 NFL Draft as a highly regarded prospect due to his explosive skill set and versatility. While there were concerns about his size and consistency, his ability to make plays as both a runner and receiver made him a valuable asset for any team looking to enhance their offensive capabilities. Teams were likely to see him as a potential change-of-pace back or a dynamic contributor in a committee approach.