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Marcus Lattimore
GRADE 5.20
RB 6-0 218 South Carolina
Class: Jr 40 Time:
Round 4 Pick 34
Gary Bogdon
Positives
While clearly not at full speed coming off his 2011 knee injury early this past season, Lattimore clearly possesses an outstanding burst out of his initial cut and very capable of getting into space before defenses are able to close off gaps. He is an aggressive, physical runner that does an excellent job of absorbing big hits and maintaining his balance and forward momentum. As a receiver out of the backfield he demonstrates natural hands and an ability to consistently find open zones in the defense where he can present himself as an easy target for his QB. He is an outstanding blocker, as he is quick to diagnose and attack the free man, and can sustain blocks with good punch and base as well as time cut blocks appropriately to take his man out at the thighs.
Negatives
Lattimore tore his left ACL in October of 2011 and on October 28th of 2012, injured the same knee (reportedly dislocating his kneecap). He is high cut which limits his ability to change directions fluidly, and must add bulk to his lower body, which appears thin "on the hoof." He is not an elusive runner in space, which further leaves him exposed to heavy hits. At times he runs with the ball exposed, leaving him susceptible to fumbling.
Analysis
Marcus Lattimore will be one of the more hotly debated prospects in NFL War Rooms this year, as his talent is very apparent when on the field, but two straight years of major knee injuries bring into serious question his long term viability. While he flashes just average change of direction, he is very aggressive running downhill and is able to consistently power through the initial tackler for extra yards, and brings the same aggressiveness when he has the ball in his hands as a receiver out of the backfield. He is also a skilled blocker that consistently diagnoses blitzes correctly and is aggressive meeting his target in the hole. Because of his one-cut burst he best fits in a zone blocking system like Washington's but considering his physical running style, his lack of elusiveness and his extensive injury history, he may continue to struggle with injuries at the next level.
Read More: 2013 NFL Draft - SI.com