John Kelly (Tennessee) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #176 by LAR
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for John Kelly - 2018 NFL Draft
Player Overview: John Kelly was a running back from the University of Tennessee, known for his strong running style, agility, and ability to contribute in both the running and passing game. He was a standout player during his college career, showcasing his skills in the SEC.
Strengths:
- Vision: Kelly exhibited excellent field vision, allowing him to navigate through defensive lines effectively.
- Balance: He demonstrated great balance and body control, which helped him stay upright after contact and gain extra yards.
- Pass Catching: Kelly was a reliable option in the passing game, showing the ability to catch passes out of the backfield.
- Work Ethic: Known for his dedication and hard work, he was praised for his preparation and commitment to improving his game.
Weaknesses:
- Speed: While he had good agility, he lacked elite top-end speed, which could limit his big-play potential at the NFL level.
- Injury History: Kelly had some injury concerns during his college career, which raised questions about his durability.
- Blocking: Although he had the potential, his pass protection skills needed refinement to be a reliable third-down back.
Overall Assessment:
John Kelly was viewed as a solid mid-round prospect in the 2018 NFL Draft. His combination of skills made him an attractive option for teams looking for a versatile running back who could contribute in multiple facets of the game. However, concerns about his speed and injury history could affect his draft stock.
Teams that valued a strong, balanced running back with the ability to catch passes and contribute to their offense likely had Kelly on their radar.