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Photo of Chad Simpson
Grade
?
  • 4.42 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 124.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 5'10" Height
  • 200LBS. Weight

Overview

An intriguing late-round back with the agility and straight-line speed to make a difference as a third-down specialist. A transfer from South Florida, Simpson dominated the lower competition in the MEAC, accounting for 161.6 all-purpose yards per game as a senior. While Simpson's rare athleticism is intriguing, he shows only marginal hands and vision. Coupled with his lack of preferred size, that could make this natural runner one who struggles to find a consistent role in the NFL.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Well-built physique for the position, especially in his upper body. ... Good straight-line speed. ... Good initial quickness. ... Can make defenders miss in the hole and has the burst to beat them to the outside. ... Productive return specialist who can break away in the open field. ... Tougher, more physical runner than he looks. Negatives: Lacks preferred size for the position, making him a likely change-of-pace back at the next level. ... Struggles to pinpoint the ball as a receiver, too often allowing easy catches to bounce off his hands or get into his chest. ... Weak route-runner. ... Only marginal vision to find the cutback lane - evident in his carries as a running back and returner. ... Struggled to academically qualify out of high school and may be limited in the complexity of the offenses he can succeed in.
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Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
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