Kenyan Drake NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Dolphins Rookie

POSITIVES

A three-down threat coming out of the backfield, Kenyan Drake flew under the radar playing behind T.J. Yeldon and then Derrick Henry at Alabama, but NFL scouts know of his top-tier abilities.

In baseball there are five-tool players, and in the NFL, Drake might be the same way. He can work as a runner between the tackles, as a change-of-pace speed back, as a receiver on screens or from the slot, and at Alabama he was a valuable member on special teams. If Drake is on your roster, you'll find a way to use him. He's a selfless contributor.

Drake has legitimate 4.45 speed and is an excellent leg-churner when working either in space to find a rushing lane or when engaged by a tackler and trying to push for extra yards. He has enough wiggle to shake defenders with his hips and feet, but he isn't afraid to put his pads down and try to bully over defenders. Drake's strength as a runner comes from his quick feet and balance—both are top-tier.

Given his experience as a receiver out of the backfield, in the slot and even as a return man, Drake is well-suited to play the third-down role in the NFL. He has the right frame and mentality to improve as a blocker with more reps.

NEGATIVES

A long injury history is the first thing scouts must discuss. Drake has dealt with a broken leg (2014) and a fractured arm (2015) along with other bumps and bruises in his four years at 'Bama. Whether or not Drake can stay on the field while taking NFL punishment remains to be seen.

Another popular question is if Drake is so talented, why couldn't he start at Alabama? The answer may seem obvious, but Yeldon and Henry were much better suited to the offensive scheme and were also healthier options.

His instincts with the ball in his hands can be questioned. Drake often runs full-bore into a wall of offensive linemen instead of choosing his spots as a runner. He doesn't show patience in waiting for the hole to develop.

Drake trusts his speed and feet, but that leads to dancing in the backfield. He loves to jump-cut and bounce outside on an inside handoff and look for a huge gain instead of taking what's there.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'0 5/8"

Weight: 210 lbs.

40 Time: 4.45s

3-Cone: 7.04s

Short Shuttle: 4.21s

PRO COMPARISON: Jeremy Langford, Chicago Bears
FINAL GRADE: 5.90/9.00 (Round 4—Quality Contributor)