Carlos Hyde draws Arian Foster comparison
Ohio State Buckeyes running back Carlos Hyde (34) pumps up the crowd prior to the 2013 Big 10 Championship game against the Michigan State Spartans at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Ohio State Buckeyes star running back Carlos Hyde is arguably the best running back in the class, and his stiffest competition come from Tre Mason and Ka’Deem Carey (in that order). Hyde is a guy who has the ability to be a feature back in the NFL, and he is a strong candidate to stay in the area and become the Cleveland Browns next feature back. Of course, the projected mid second-round pick would likely have to slip into the third round in order for that to happen, but that’s a possibility if Mason and Carey (or another back) go early.
ESPN’s Todd McShay recently sent out a tweet comparing Hyde to one of the NFL’s finest feature backs in Arian Foster of the Houston Texans, and he stated that the size and power traits that both backs bring to the table aren’t the only reason for the comparison; Hyde’s lateral agility and body control remind him of Foster.
It’s a lofty comparison, but it’s clear that Hyde has the power, explosiveness, agility, vision, and durability to warrant comparisons to some of the leagues best feature backs. I don’t think there’s a better running back in this class, though Mason is awfully close to Hyde in terms of ability. Both Hyde and Mason are the backs I have the easiest time viewing as potential feature backs, and it will be interesting to see which RB starts for the Browns in 2014 (they seem to have the biggest need at the position).