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NFL Draft 2016: Pro comparisons for top 10 prospects

By Gabe Encinas

Jan 10, 2015; Frisco, TX, USA; North Dakota State Bison quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass during pre game warmups against the Illinois State Redbirds at Pizza Hut Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2015; Frisco, TX, USA; North Dakota State Bison quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass during pre game warmups against the Illinois State Redbirds at Pizza Hut Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Evan Spencer (6) and running back Ezekiel Elliott (15) react following Elliot
Jan 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Evan Spencer (6) and running back Ezekiel Elliott (15) react following Elliot /

Ezekiel Elliott might be one of the best runners we’ve seen in a while in the NFL Draft. An extremely powerful running back that has explosive speed to break through the tackles and take one the distance. We’re going to have to go back in time for his comparison, but I see Edgerrin James in Elliott.

Elliott has slowly solidified his way into the top 10 of most mock drafts and for good reason. After Elliott, this doesn’t figure to be a strong class for running backs, with Derrick Henry and Devontae Booker the next best prospects.

His strong running, pass catching abilities, vision and cutting ability makes him a threat. Watch his film from Ohio State and you’ll see him burst through the line of scrimmage, needing one small change in direction to spin the safety around and hit the end zone. Elliott is a special runner.

With Elliott’s skills and his frame, he has the potential to be a great back. Figuring to go late in the top 10, he also has a chance to get to a team that has a better system in place, and not a top five team simply reaching for his talents. If he can find the right place, he will have a long career much like James, with maybe even some Hall of Fame potential as well.

Next: 7. Vernon Hargreaves III

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