The 2024 NFL Combine has moved to the offensive side of the ball, with running backs taking the field to begin Saturday coverage. If you have missed any of our prior Combine review series pieces, you can catch up here.
Interior defensive linemen include edge rushers, off-ball linebackers, cornerbacks, and safeties.
Tight ends
Running back is expected to be less of a priority for the Lions due to the guys they’re returning, therefore this article will focus on prospects who could enter the NFL Draft on Day 3. Let’s take a look at which running backs stood out.
Ray Davis, Kentucky (5’8 1⁄2, 211 pounds)
I may be hoping that Davis slips into Day 3, but he’d be such a strong match for the Lions’ scheme that it’s worth talking about. He didn’t run a fast 40-yard dash (4.52 seconds), but for a gap-bruiser, that time is completely fine. In on-field drills, he executed the Duce Staley drill flawlessly, demonstrating quick, accurate feet and balance. His strength comes through in his cuts, which he converts into a devastating upfield burst. As a receiver, he tracks the ball well and receives it effortlessly.
Tyrone Tracy, Purdue (5’11, 209 pounds)
Tracy, a former wide receiver, moves easily as both a runner and receiver. He glides across the field, grabs the ball with confidence, cuts quickly in and out, and has a difficult hesitation-to-explosion move. His strongest attribute is undoubtedly his ability to catch passes, but don’t dismiss him solely as a third-down back; he also has a lot to offer as a runner.
Isaac Guerendo, Louisville (6’0, 221 pounds)
Guerendo had a 4.33 40-yard sprint, which is really outstanding for a running back who relies heavily on strength. His quick feet showed up in drills, notably the Duce Staley drill, with almost no wasted movement despite his large body.
Kimani Vidal and Troy (5 feet-8, 213 pounds)
Vidal is perhaps the finest pass-blocking running back in the draft, which is why he lead my pre-Combine running backs preview, and he demonstrated that his game is more than just situational. Vidal ran a 4.46 40-yard dash and had lightning-fast feet, making him one of the top performers in the Duce Staley drill. His compact frame allows the ball to enter his chest more frequently than I would like, but he has easy hands and did not drop a pass at the Combine, demonstrating his potential as a third-down option.
Keilan Robinson of Texas (5’8 1⁄2, 191 pounds)
Robinson’s 4.42 40-yard sprint was crucial because he projects as a third-down option with kick return potential. His hands were fluid and clean, his cuts appeared effortless, and he moved upfield quickly. His game has some developmental appeal, and his return skills could help him make the squad as an RB4.
