FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Michigan running back Donovan Edwards.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Donovan Edwards

Donovan Edwards (RB – Michigan)

6’1” – 210 lbs.

Background:

Four-star recruit and Michigan native who rotated in somewhat sparingly as a freshman (35-174-3) before factoring in much more heavily behind Blake Corum the following year, with 140-991-7 (7.1) and an 18-200-2 receiving line. Took over the starting role for the past few games of that season when Corum was hurt. Efficiency has really dropped off this season, and, heading into the playoffs, has totaled 109-382-3 (3.5) with 30-249-0 receiving.

Positives:

Big, thickly-built back who’s added nearly 20 pounds of bulk since arriving at Michigan. Smooth mover and accelerator who has the patience and vision to identify cutback lanes. Consequently, is at his best when he’s working as a one-cut runner, stretching the defense laterally and recognizing chances to cut it upfield. Speed is good enough to outrace defenders to the edge. Has some elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field. Runs harder near the goal line. An accomplished receiver who the team tries to scheme some touches in space on screens from the slot and other routes; also gets some pop passes from motion. Has a reliable pair of hands and some route-running chops. Ball security is relatively good; no fumbles so far in 2023, and only three overall.

Negatives:

Junior season has been significantly less impressive than his 2022 campaign. There’s some gather to his cuts. Overall speed is adequate, but probably will be more of a chunk runner at the next level. Doesn’t run with too much explosive power, and his average yards after contact have plummeted this year; legs occasionally go dead on contact. Is a taller back, and doesn’t have the most consistent knee bend. Struggles to consistently push the pile between the tackles. Runs a lot of routes on passing downs, so has relatively little experience in blitz pickup and has struggled when asked to do so.

Summary:

A smooth runner who has the patience and vision to stretch out the defense laterally and execute one-cut concepts, but who doesn’t run with the power and competitiveness you’d expect given his size. Following a very disappointing junior campaign, his stock has probably fallen somewhat considerably, but could still end up coming off the board around the mid-rounds because of his natural, versatile receiving skills. Will likely begin his career as a passing-game specialist and member of a running back rotation.

Projection: Round 5