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LaMichael James Scouting Report

Posted by Brad On January – 16 – 2012

LaMichael James

Oregon

Ht. 5-9 Wt. 185

Inside Running:  James is not going to make his living in the NFL running between the tackles.  He has surprising strength and good vision but he excels in open space.  His size (or lack thereof) will hamper the amount of carries and/or pounding James can withstand in the inside running game of the NFL.

Outside Running:   His speed is his biggest asset.  Oregon’s spread offense allows for James to find the corner quickly.  In the NFL he will have to rely on speed and vision to get outside.  Teams will focus on funneling James to the inside.

Hands:  James wasn’t used in the passing game very much in Oregon.  He does flash the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.  In open space, there isn’t a better RB in this draft.  Teams will most likely look to exploit his dynamic ability in open space by getting him the ball out of the backfield.

Blocking/Durability:  James is an effort blocker.  He doesn’t appear to have great instincts in picking up blitzes which will result in less playing time in the NFL.  His durability at the next level is a major concern and could cost him a round in the 2012 NFL Draft.  He has a significant injury history throughout his collegiate career.

Bottom Line:  James is a dynamic threat that is capable of making the big play every time he touches the football.  Teams that can find ways to get James in open space will have a field day with the talented runner.  He won’t be an everydown back in the NFL which should keep him the round 4th range.

Draft Projection:  James could find a role in the NFL but I don’t see anyone drafting him before round 4 of April’s draft.

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  • Mike J.

    I like James. There are not a lot of feature backs in this year’s draft;however, there is a plethora of complimentary-type HBs. This will push them down as a group. Clubs such as my Bucs will find bargains at this spot in rounds 3 through 5.

    • Anonymous

      I like James as a change of pace back. I think even he knows he won’t be able to carry the load in the NFL. His reason for entering the draft was taking too many hits in college and didn’t want anymore wear and tear on his body. He would definitely offer a nice change of pace to Blount with the Bucs and could be a perfect situation for him.

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