Ezekiel Elliott Comments on Versatility, Maturity and More

Former Ohio State Buckeyes running back Ezekiel Elliott is saying all the right things when it comes to his future in the NFL. After a stellar career that saw him rush for more than 1,800 yards in both his sophomore and junior seasons, he's confident in his skills but also knows he needs to be a well-rounded team player, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com.

"I think the thing that sets me apart is just my versatility," Elliott said. "I'm a guy that can play three downs. You don't have to take me off the field. I value blocking more than anything. I obviously love to run the ball, and I think I have great hands out of the backfield."

Year	Rushing Attempts	Yards	TD	Receptions	Yards	TD
2013	30	262	2	3	23	1
2014	273	1878	18	28	220	0
2015	289	1821	23	27	206	0
Total	592	3961	43	58	449	1

While he had just one receiving touchdown in his college career, Elliott did catch 55 passes over the past two seasons. However, he also caught some flak for comments he made after rushing for just 33 yards on 12 carries in a loss to the Michigan State Spartans last year in which he questioned the play-calling. He already knows what he is going to say when questioned about his comments, though, per Fowler.

"I'll tell them I've grown up a lot since then," Elliott said. "That was a great learning moment for me. I was emotional. What teams want is a competitor, and that's what I am. That's where that came from."

Elliott is the only running back that CBS Sports projects to go in the first round of the draft, and NFLDraftScout.com's Dane Brugler had this to say about him (via CBS Sports):

"

Elliott is extremely well-rounded as a runner with ideal size for the position along with coordinated footwork that is always in sync with his eyes. He runs with natural pad level and fantastic forward lean, using his balance, leg drive and relentless fight to move the chains and pick up every inch he can. Plays with a strong intensity for the game.

"

With the talent and skills to excel and an improved attitude, it seems as though the future is bright for Elliott, especially if he lands with the right team.