Tyler Ervin NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Texans Rookie

POSITIVES

A redshirt senior from Colton, California, Tyler Ervin's versatility makes him a dangerous threat in the right NFL offense. In the last four years, he's played running back, slot receiver, return man, cornerback and gunner on punts. Ervin's jack-of-all-trades skill set will endear him to pro scouts.

With 4.41-second speed in the 40-yard dash, Ervin answered any questions about his ability to pull away from NFL defenses. Ervin has the explosive ability to pick up chunk yards in space and will run past defenders to destroy their angles. His change-of-direction skills are also impressive, as he can shift gears and cut back on defenders without losing his top-end speed.

When in the open field, Ervin has the instincts to feel tacklers and read blockers, which allow him to score as a running back, receiver, kick returner and punt returner.

Ervin is a fearless runner, which is a good thing given his size. He'll run between the tackles with better urgency than many of the big backs in the class.

Teams that throw to the running back will value what Ervin can do. He's a natural receiver and can run routes from both the backfield and the slot. Ervin is more than just a third-down threat; he's a dangerous return man on both kicks and punts. He's an electric player whenever the ball is in his hands and he has space to operate.

NEGATIVES

The biggest question for Ervin will be how well his lack of size can hold up in the NFL. Weight is a concern, as he was listed at 177 pounds by San Jose State, but did weigh in at 192 pounds for the scouting combine. Is that weight he can keep on during a season?

Ervin didn't show the leg power to stay on his feet through traffic or even during minor hits at the college level. His overall balance is below average, and he offers nothing after first contact with the ball in his hands.

While Ervin has tremendous speed, he's not a decisive runner on stretch plays and will dance in the backfield. Taking four steps when one will do gets you tackled in the backfield in the NFL, and Ervin loves to take multistep cuts in the backfield as opposed to sticking his foot in the ground and getting upfield.

Ervin is an intriguing prospect whose value will depend greatly on the scheme he's drafted into. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs or New England Patriots make the most sense for him late in the draft.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 5'9 7/8"

Weight: 192 lbs.

40 Time: 4.41s

3-Cone: N/A

Short Shuttle: N/A

PRO COMPARISON: Dexter McCluster, Tennessee Titans
FINAL GRADE: 5.40/9.00 (Round 7—Backup Caliber)