2016 NFL Rookie Predictions: Keith Marshall has moxie

Bench presses have been counted, cone drills have been clocked, and tape has been reviewed. While NFL scouts have been scribbling in their notebooks for months, fantasy owners are just now examining this year’s incoming class. Over the next two weeks, I’ll be breaking down some under the radar prospects at QB, RB, and WR. Once April arrives, we’ll tackle the big names. All of this in the hopes of keeping fans of the virtual game fully informed and a step ahead of the competition. Our first running back under the microscope: Georgia’s Keith Marshall.

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College Highlights: A five-star prospect out of high school, Marshall had a highly productive freshman year. Averaging 6.5 YPC, the former North Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year rushed for 759 yards and scored 8 TDs. Also a skilled pass-catcher, Marshall added 11 grabs for 91 receiving yards and a score. Making school history in Week 5 of the 2012 season, Marshall racked up 164 yards on 10 carries, which was the best rushing total for a single player since 2009. A little more than a month into his sophomore campaign, however, he went down with a torn ACL and missed the entirety of 2013. Complications from the injury and a loaded depth chart prevented Marshall from reestablishing himself as a starter.

Pluses: A star sprinter in high school, Marshall’s most obvious attribute is his blazing speed. Able to plant and go, the 21-year-old can accelerate past defenders with McLaren-like quickness. Possessing of great strength, his 5-foot-11 and 219 pound frame is tough to take down. He has above average agility and can shimmy between defenders before breaking free. A former member of the SEC Academic Honor Roll, Marshall is a smart player and fast learner.

Minuses: Durability is a primary concern, as injuries have kept him off the field for much of his college career. There’s no telling how much more trauma his body can withstand. Additionally, he’s not a patient runner and can get spooked if he doesn’t immediately spot a hole. Lacking centeredness and balance, he often rushes with his body pitched forward a bit, which prevents him from finishing runs.

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Pro-Comp(s): Knile Davis, Lamar Miller

Team Fits: Seattle Seahawks, Miami Dolphins, Denver Broncos

Fearless Forecast: Succumbing to injury and sharing the field with both Todd Gurley and Nick Chubb in college, Marshall’s talent and potential was overlooked. At the 2016 NFL Combine, however, the speedster posted the fastest 40-yard-dash time, clocking in at a smoldering 4.31 seconds. He also managed 25 reps during the bench press, which was the fourth most of all participating RBs. Demonstrating rare resilience, Marshall addressed concerns over his ability to regain his speed post-ACL tear with a flashy performance in Indianapolis. Unlikely to start immediately, Marshall could be a solid No. 2 in an RBBC. Presenting tremendous value to a team dazzled by his speed and willing to take a risk on his health, the former Bulldog’s landing spot needs to be tracked. Assuming he lands on zone-friendly squad, he could be waiver wire material before mid-season… that is, of course, if savvy owners don’t stash him early.

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