NFL Draft Profile: Running Back MarShawn Lloyd, USC
Strengths, weaknesses and a summary of running back MarShawn Lloyd.
MarShawn Lloyd
Position: Running Back
School: USC
Play Style: Versatile Back
Age: 23
DOB: 1/5/2001
Height: 5'9
Weight: 220 lbs
40-Time: 4.46
FantasySP Position Ranking: 5
Round Projected: 2-3
NFL Comp: Clyde Edwards-Helaire
Summary
Lloyd is a physical anomaly. We compared him to CEH, but there wasn't really anyone he reminded us of. To be built like a tank at 5'9, 220 lbs and be as fast and elusive as him it is hard to comprehend. That is why he has been getting a ton of hype throughout the draft process. You just don't see physical specimens like him with that skill set.
The burst and explosion he shows is incredible as he rapidly accelerates through holes. Then he is also extremely elusive with the long speed to take any play to the house for a touchdown. His vision is also improving with experience. So you have this explosive and elusive back with good vision and then on top of that, he's a solid mound of muscle at 200 pounds. This is a player that could become a massive star and we will all ask ourselves how we didn't see it coming.
Strengths
- Built like a bowling ball made of muscle
- Excellent speed to create big plays
- Improved vision
- Extremely elusive
- Accelerates rapidly
- Shows great burst and explosion
- Can both break tackles and dodge defenders
- Good stop/start ability
- Flashes everything he needs to be a top pass-catcher
- Potential three-down back if he develops as a blocker and receiver
Weaknesses
- Should have more power than he does
- Runs too upright
- Improved but still average vision
- Irresponsible with the ball leading to a significant turnover issue
- Durability concerns after missing time in each of the past three seasons, including a torn ACL in 2021
- Not an overly instinctual runner which can cause him to miss holes
- Little experience in pass protection
- Already 23 years old
- Bounces plays outside looking for the big play at times when he should take the easy yards
Our Take
Lloyd is not yet a complete running back but certainly has the potential. There are three things he needs to do to become a superstar in the NFL: Lower his pads when he runs, protect the ball, and continue to improve with his vision. All those things are easy fixes.
If he continues to develop in the passing attack, both as a pass-catcher and blocker, he could be an extremely productive every-down running back on the next level. He has a rare physical skill set and is just a little bit raw. Don't be shocked if he becomes a breakout star in a year or so.
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