2018 NFL Draft Profile: LSU running back Derrius Guice
The 2018 NFL Draft features an incredible pool of running backs. Could LSU’s Derrius Guice follow in the footsteps of his former teammate Leonard Fournette and be a first round pick?
Derrius Guice led the SEC in rushing yardage in 2016 – as a backup. Starting running back Leonard Fournette battled through injuries during that season, leaving Guice plenty of opportunities to impress. In his final game that season he churned out a school record 285 yards, eclipsing the previous record of 284 yards set by Fournette earlier that season.
Fournette had an incredible rookie season, leading the Jacksonville Jaguars to the AFC Championship Game. Could Guice follow in his footsteps when it comes to NFL success?
Strengths
The 5-foot-11, 212 pound bruiser frequently ran against stacked boxes and still averaged 6.5 yards per carry in three seasons at LSU. Guice was even more dangerous once he got to the second level. His power running gives way to breakaway speed, resulting in three games of more than 250 yards rushing against SEC opponents.
His best NFL comparison is Marshawn Lynch. When Beastmode gets the ball in space he puts his head down and accelerates. He can break tackles, run through defenders and almost will himself down the field. Watch him break eight tackles on one play, a 75-yard kickoff return against Texas A&M in 2016.
Weaknesses
Pass protection is something that Guice is going to have to improve at on the next level. He wasn’t asked to do as much in college as he will in the NFL. He tries to get away with partially committing to the block too often and lacks the discipline to hold his block. His limited experience catching the football and running routes is also a concern.
The chief worry with Guice will always be health. He easily could have led the SEC in rushing again in 2017, he finished fourth, had he not dealt with recurring injuries. His running style didn’t help. Guice is not afraid to initiate contact and runs with a vengeance which sets him up for big hits that could derail a potential NFL career.
Next: Latest pre-Combine first round NFL Mock Draft
Draft expectations
Saquon Barkley is the clear-cut favorite to be the first running back selected in this year’s draft. Guice will most likely be the second back taken, but the depth at the running back position could affect when he comes off the board. With so many options available, teams might be more willing to wait on running back even though Guice is a first round talent.