RAY GRAHAM RB, Pittsburgh




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Apr 22

10 late round sleepers who could surprise: Part I

The NFP takes a look at the first five of 10 "Sleeper" prospects in the 2013 NFL Draft.



STRENGTHS - The first thing that jumps out on film is Graham's ability to change direction without slowing down. He has great ability to make a defender miss and this cutback is lethal. Graham is still recovering from a torn ACL that he suffered in 2011, but his skill is still on display. He is a patient runner while waiting for his blocks to set up. He displays great acceleration, especially after he cuts the ball back. He has very good hands and can do it all as a running back. Graham is a player that is a nightmare in space, and as his knee gets stronger his ability to make defenders miss will get better. He does a very good job of covering the ball and has great ball security skills.

WEAKNESSES - Graham is not a big running back and he doesn't run the ball between the tackles all that well. His instinct is to bounce the play to the outside. He tore his ACL in 2011 and his status for the start of the 2012 season was up in the air. You can see that he is still not 100% on his bad knee as he looks like he is dragging it at times. Graham does not showcase true elite speed but there is enough of a burst to get the job done. If he wants to really stick in the NFL, pass protection will have to improve but he is a willing blocker. He is a player with very few weaknesses, but protecting the quarterback from the blitz is an area that needs to be improved.

SUMMARY - Graham is a player that could make the team that drafts him look really good because of his ability to change direction and make defenders miss. He has dynamic skills in space and is an excellent pass catching running back. Although small, he runs with good pad level and he keeps his feet churning through contact. While he isn't a speed merchant, he does have a great burst and enough speed to get it done, even post injury. He is patient and allows his blocks to get set up. Graham is great catching the ball out of the back field and he is a back that can truly do it all. He won't be a featured back right away, but he could really contribute as a 3rd down RB and potentially more if he adds weight and has no more issues with his knee. It is fascinating to watch him move laterally without slowing down, and his COD and cutback skills are rare. Graham is a gem, as he has rare skills that simply can't be taught. Graham warrants early-mid third round consideration because of his three-down abilities and his ability to make defenders miss. He could be a player that makes a real impact in the NFL early in his career.