The New York Giants would probably be inclined to get a running back in the 2015 NFL Draft to alleviate their problems in the running game. One very flashy option is Jay Ajayi of the Boise State Broncos.
Ajayi was a workhorse at Boise State. In 2014 alone, he was handed the ball 347 times and had 50 receptions. The year before he had 249 carries and 22 receptions. The 6-0 216 pound running back was essentially Boise State’s entire offense.
The most impressive stat for a running back is their average yards per carry. It is almost stunning to think that with 678 career rushes, Ajayi had an average of 5.6 yards. His best year was in 2014, he had 1,823 yards with 28 rushing touchdowns. He also had 535 receiving yards with 4 touchdown receptions. Needless to say, Ajayi was a productive back.
GMENHQ Big Board Ranking: 49th Overall Prospect
Strengths:
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- Ajayi grinds out the tough yards inside the tackle
- Powerful running back, arm tackle resistant
- Good speed (4.57 second 40 yard dash)
- Almost looks for contact, plays like a wrecking ball
- Does a good job in pass protection
- Patient runner with vision: he lets the play develop and he hits the point of attack hard
- Great burst in the open field
Concerns:
- One off the field incident
- ACL injury in 2011
- Fumbling problem
The Giants obviously are intrigued with Ajayi. Remember that Tiki Barber had a fumbling problem back in the day and Tom Coughlin helped to solve that. The Giants should target Ajayi in the 3rd round. It is a deep class of running backs. Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley are the two elite prospects at the position.
Ameer Abdullah is the next best thing, though he lacks the power of Ajayi. It would not be unfathomable to see five running backs go before Ajayi. If the Giants want him in Round 3, this is a possibility.
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