Scouting the Potential of Khalil Herbert: A Comprehensive Draft and Combine Prospect Profile

Introduction

As the 2023 NFL Draft draws closer, analysts and fans alike eagerly anticipate the emergence of exceptional talent. Among the prospects garnering attention is Khalil Herbert, a running back from the University of Virginia. Herbert's impressive athleticism and versatility have made him a target for teams seeking potential impact players. This comprehensive profile aims to critically examine Herbert's draft and combine prospects, exploring his strengths, weaknesses, and the complexities surrounding his evaluation.

Herbert's Athletic Profile

Standing at 5'9" and weighing 209 pounds, Herbert possesses a compact and explosive build. His lightning-fast acceleration and deceptive agility make him a formidable threat in both the running and passing games. He boasts a 40-yard dash time of 4.54 seconds, showcasing his explosive speed. Herbert's broad jump of 10'4" demonstrates his lower-body power, crucial for breaking tackles and gaining yards after contact.

College Production

Herbert's collegiate career at Virginia was marked by steady improvement and a high level of production. As a junior in 2021, he rushed for 1,571 yards and 8 touchdowns, leading the Cavaliers to the ACC Coastal Division title. His 6.1 yards per carry average ranked among the top 10 in the nation. In 2022, despite sharing carries with fellow running back Sean Tucker, Herbert still managed to rush for 1,190 yards and 10 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to contribute in various backfield roles.

Combine Performance

Herbert's performance at the 2023 NFL Combine solidified his status as a potential draft steal. He turned heads with an impressive 25 reps on the bench press, demonstrating his upper-body strength. His 3-cone drill time of 6.95 seconds and 20-yard shuttle time of 4.26 seconds highlighted his agility and lateral quickness. However, his 40-yard dash time of 4.58 seconds was slightly slower than his pro-day performance, raising questions about his long speed.

Strengths

• Explosive Acceleration and Agility: Herbert possesses the ability to burst through holes quickly and change direction effortlessly, making him a dangerous open-field runner.
• High Production: His impressive college production, including over 1,500 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 2021, demonstrates his ability to carry a heavy workload.
• Versatility: Herbert is not just a ball carrier. He is also a capable pass-catcher with soft hands and good route-running ability.

Weaknesses

• Size and Durability: While compact in size, Herbert may lack the ideal height and weight for the NFL, which could raise concerns about his durability at the next level.
• Long Speed: His slightly slower 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine has raised questions about whether he possesses the long speed to consistently break away from defenders.
• Blocking: Herbert is an average blocker in pass protection, which may limit his role in certain offenses.

Projection and Draft Fit

Herbert is projected to be a mid-round draft pick due to his combination of skills and some lingering concerns. He could be an ideal fit for teams seeking a versatile and productive running back with the potential for a significant role in the offense. Herbert's ability to contribute in both the running and passing games makes him a valuable asset. However, teams may have to weigh the potential risks associated with his size and potential durability concerns.

Conclusion

Khalil Herbert is an intriguing prospect with a unique blend of athleticism and production. While some weaknesses exist regarding his size and long speed, his explosive acceleration, agility, and versatility make him a potential impact player in the NFL. Herbert's draft position will hinge on how teams evaluate his overall potential and the perceived risks associated with his physical attributes. As teams finalize their draft boards, it will be fascinating to see where Herbert ultimately lands and how he contributes to his future NFL franchise.

The complexities surrounding Herbert's draft and combine prospects highlight the challenges of player evaluation in the NFL. Teams must carefully balance a player's physical attributes, production history, and potential for growth when making draft decisions. Herbert's journey is a reminder that even players with some perceived weaknesses can find success in the NFL if they possess the necessary determination and skills.