Photo of George Atkinson
Grade
5.1 ?
  • 4.48 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 19 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 38.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 121.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.07 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.46 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 11.50 SEC
    Top Performer
Blue Star  =  Top Performer
  • 6'1" Height
  • 33 1/4" Arm Length
  • 218LBS. Weight
  • 9 3/8" Hands

Overview

Father, George, was a defensive back in the NFL from 1968-1979 for the Oakland Raiders and Denver Broncos. Atkinson's twin brother, Josh, is currently on the Notre Dame team. Spent three seasons as the team's primary kick returner. Carried the ball 10-plus times only three times in college career. 2013: Played in 12 games and made four starts. 2012: Played in 12 games. 2011: Played in all 13 games.

Analysis

Strengths

Outstanding timed speed -- has been clocked below 10.4 seconds in the 100 meters. Has kickoff-return experience and returned two for scores as a freshman. Can take it the distance when he gets in the clear. Has plenty of tread on his tires having carried just 153 times at Notre Dame. Has NFL bloodlines.

Weaknesses

Has an upright, linear running style -- exposes himself to some violent hits. Does not convert speed to power. Gears down to cut. Struggles to create on his own. Limited elusiveness and tackle-breaking ability -- too often grounded by the first tackler or ankle tackles. Crude eyes and instincts. Head-scratching career production. Has underachiever traits. Competitiveness and coachability need to be looked into.

Draft Projection

Round 6

Bottom Line

A height-weight-speed prospect who slid down the depth chart as a junior, Atkinson made a premature jump to the NFL knowing he likely would have been behind underclassmen had he returned as a senior. Is not a natural running back, but has raw tools to warrant consideration as a developmental, one-cut slasher. Better tester than football player.
-Nolan Nawrocki
C
Grade Title
9.00-10 Once-in-lifetime player
8.00-8.99 Perennial All-Pro
7.50-7.99 Future All-Pro
7.00-7.49 Pro Bowl-caliber player
6.50-6.99 Chance to become Pro Bowl-caliber player
6.00-6.49 Should become instant starter
5.50-5.99 Chance to become NFL starter
5.20-5.49 NFL backup or special teams potential
5.01-5.19 Better-than-average chance to make NFL roster
5.00 50-50 Chance to make NFL roster
4.75-4.99 Should be in an NFL training camp
4.50-4.74 Chance to be in an NFL training camp
No Grade Likely needs time in developmental league.