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Ryquell Armstead, Running Back, Temple Owls
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 220 pounds
40-yard Dash: 4.45 seconds
Bench Press: 22 reps
Vertical: 30”
Broad Jump: 114”
Career Stats: 573 rushing attempts for 2,812 yards (4.9 yards per carry) and 34 rushing touchdowns. 29 receptions for 175 yards (6.0 yards per catch)
Analysis
Strengths: Armstead left his mark on Temple’s history books. He finished his collegiate career third in rushing touchdowns (34), fourth in rushing yards (2,812) and fifth in yards from scrimmage (2,987) in school history. Those numbers could have been even bigger if nagging injuries didn’t hamper him. Looks the part as a NFL back. A tough, downhill runner that impressed many at the NFL Combine with a 40-yard dash that was second among running backs. Runs with a full head of steam and looks to initiate contact with would-be tacklers. Another Temple product with a relentless motor. So much so, the coaching staff gave him a handful of snaps as a pass-rushing defensive end. He became only the third player in college football history to record a sack and rush for over 100 yards when he did so against Tulsa this season.
Weaknesses: Can be too quick to hit the hole instead of having patience for his blockers to set up. Tries to run over defenders when he could bounce the play to the outside. Temple does not use their running backs in the passing game often, which is something Armstead will have to prove he can do at the next level. Not only as a pass catcher, but blocker as well.
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Final Thoughts
Many felt Armstead was just a bruiser, but his stunning 40 time has him shooting up some draft boards. A violent runner - his own words - between the tackles that can also take it to the house on any play, Armstead should get plenty of carries in his rookie year as a complimentary piece ina running back committee, and maybe a potential starter if he can show his worth in the passing game. He could hear his name called on the second day of the draft, but if not, he might be a steal in the later rounds for one lucky NFL team.