Indiana running back Tevin Coleman figures to be a wanted man in the draft, and he has visits set up with three teams that figure to be looking for running back help.
The Sun of Baltimore reported that Coleman (5-foot-11 3/8, 206 pounds) will be meeting with the Arizona Cardinals, Baltimore Ravens and Carolina Panthers.
Coleman wasn't able to work out at the combine, as he is recovering from foot and toe injuries; his pro day is April 15. Coleman is an explosive runner who was the offensive focal point for IU in 2014, when he rushed for 2,036 yards and 15 TDs. Coleman had four 200-yard games and three three-TD outings in 2014. He has some receiving ability, too.
He should interest each of the aforementioned teams in the second round (Arizona picks 23rd, Carolina 25th and Baltimore 26th in the round); a potential concern is whether he would be available at those spots.
While Baltimore just re-signed running back Justin Forsett, Coleman potentially could give them a back with long-term upside. The same goes for Carolina, which recently released DeAngelo Williams, and Arizona, which at the moment would seem to have Andre Ellington as its starter. Carolina still has Jonathan Stewart, but he appears to be on the downside of his career.
Cfbstats.com shows that in 2014, Coleman had 16 carries of at least 30 yards (second nationally), 13 of at least 40 (second), nine of at least 50 (tied for national lead), eight of at least 60 (national leader) and four of at least 70 (national leader). His 15 TDs last season covered an average of 41 yards, including a 90-yarder that was the longest run allowed by Ohio State since 1960.
NFL Media analyst Bucky Brooks has Coleman as his No. 3 running back, while fellow analyst Mike Mayock has Coleman at No. 5.
Mike Huguenin can be reached at mike.huguenin@nfl.com. You also can follow him on Twitter @MikeHuguenin.
