Jay Ajayi NFL Draft 2015: Scouting Report, Grade for Miami Dolphins Rookie

STRENGTHS
Only one player in FBS history has rushed for 1,800 yards and caught over 500 yards' worth of passes in one season. That player is Jay Ajayi. He’s obviously versatile, and at 6’0” and 221 pounds, Ajayi has the bulk to break tackles and be an asset up the middle of the field. He has the leg drive to break tackles and churn for tough yards between the tackles.

On the edge you see his soccer background with quick, choppy, light feet and very good balance and body control. He’s a physical runner who finishes plays and falls forward for extra yards, but he also looks for contact and isn’t shy. Ajayi has the instincts to get small and slip through small holes, but he also has the power to blast through tight openings and pick up yards. He’s a truly versatile runner with inside and outside run traits. As a receiver he’ll produce, and he shows soft hands out of the backfield.

WEAKNESSES
Ajayi had one off-field run-in back in 2011, when he was arrested for stealing sweatpants during his redshirt season. On the field, he is a frenetic runner who could be very difficult to block for. He loves to bounce runs outside when the block is set up inside, which will frustrate NFL coaches and linemen. Ajayi doesn’t have great speed in the open field and can be caught from behind. If he tries to bounce to the corner too much in the NFL, he’ll get run down by backside defenders. He looks for contact, which could lead to a lot of hits in the pros.

PRO COMPARISON: Stevan Ridley, New York Jets
As starting-caliber backs with power, vision and hands, Ajayi and Stevan Ridley are similar talents, with Ajayi having a higher upside.

2014 STATISTICS
Rushing Attempts     Rushing Yards      Touchdowns
347                                   1,823                        28

FINAL GRADE: 6.00/9.00 (Rookie Impact)