The Big 12 rushing leader last season, Smallwood's strong test numbers don't quite translate to the field but he's a well-rounded back with solid pass pro and receiving skills. Doug Pederson will find a way to get him in the rotation often next season.
--Mark Dulgerian
5'10" Height
30 1/2" Arm Length
208LBS. Weight
9 1/4" Hands
Overview
The Big 12's leading rusher in 2015 was Smallwood, in a bit of an upset over bigger names like Oklahoma's Samaje Perine and Baylor's Shock Linwood. He rushed for 1,519 yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games, while also catching 26 passes out of the backfield for 160 yards, in what proved to be his final year with the Mountaineers after filing for early entry into the 2016 NFL Draft. As a sophomore, Smallwood was second on the team with 722 rushing yards and two scores on 148 carries, and contributed 31 catches for 326 yards as a receiver. He had showed promise as a true freshman, as well, (39-221 rushing; 11-132 receiving, one start in 12 games), but he nearly was untracked in the following offseason after being arrested on a warrant for a witness tampering charge. Smallwood was accused of telling someone to recant their statement accusing one of his friends in a fatal shooting case. The charges were officially dropped when his friend pleaded guilty in the murder case, allowing Smallwood to continue his football career.
Pro Day Results
40-yard dash: 4.41 seconds
Analysis
Strengths
Hits the crease with proper pad level and can spin off of initial tackle attempt on his way to additional yardage. Attacks his foes with lead shoulder at the end of the run for an aggressive finish. Runs a disciplined track as zone runner using solid vision and steady tempo. One of the sharpest players on the offense. Scans and spots blitzers on the creep and steps over to meet them as a blocker. Possesses exceptional hands as an option out of the backfield.
Weaknesses
Can use more beef on his frame to handle the rigors of the NFL. Monotone runner who tends to keep his runs at one speed. Not flashy or particularly creative as a runner. Gets what is blocked and is more of a physical finisher than tackle breaker. Has an extended gear down on outside zone to hit downhill cuts. Average athleticism and lacks the sudden jump cut.
Draft Projection
Rounds 6 or 7
Bottom Line
Smallwood changed West Virginia from an "Air Raid" offense to a "ground and pound" attack. Smallwood's tape features few, true flash plays, but the quality runs seem to stack up one after another. His intelligence in pass pro and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield give him an immediate shot as a third-down back, but his combine could determine whether he hears his name on Day 3 of the draft or not.
