NFL Draft 2019: The best running back no one is talking about

We all know the big running back names for the 2019 NFL Draft, but Iowa State’s David Montgomery is the best back no one is talking about.

David Montgomery, a junior running back out of Iowa State dominated a number of games in the 2017 college football season. With another great year, Montgomery can hear his name called early in 2019 NFL Draft.

In his sophomore season, Montgomery rushed for over 100 yards six times. In total, he ran for 1,146 yards, good enough for third place in the Big 12, and 11 rushing touchdowns (No. 3). He also added 36 catches for nearly 300 yards. There’s more to Montgomery than his dominance in the Big 12.

The Cyclones running back has all the tools to become a star at the next level. 

What Montgomery does well

The first trait that stands out on Montgomery is his build. He’s 5-11, 216 pounds with a big lower body and solid upper build. Montgomery has a wide base when he runs that makes him difficult to bring down. He’s a very strong runner who falls forward more often than not. Over his short career, he’s proven to be a true workhorse. L

Last season, Montgomery had eight games with 20 or more carries. Along with his tenacious running style, Montgomery has a deadly stiff arm as part of his arsenal. He’s also deceptively quick and the same goes for his straight-line speed. Moreover, he can turn what looks to be a loss into a gain.

Additionally, he has added value on third downs. When he’s asked to double team when blocking, he does so very well. In blitz pickup, he shuffles inside-out and, when he gets his man, he often makes him pay. Iowa State often asks him to chip before running out.

As a receiver, he displays soft hands. On option routes, he does a solid job setting up linebackers. Montgomery has all the skills to be a first-round selection, but he is far from a perfect prospect. 

What he needs to work on 

Montgomery does a solid job breaking runs outside, but he can rely on his ability to do so too often. When running routes, he doesn’t give maximum effort when the ball isn’t coming to him. He rounds his routes at times and doesn’t get his head around quick enough. He has solid speed, but isn’t the same threat as Bryce Love and Devin Singletary in that regard. 

Overall Outlook

In a nutshell, Montgomery is a very powerful runner with great quickness to make the first defender miss. He’s a load to bring down and does a great job keeping his legs churning forward. He’s a plus-receiver option does a good job blocking on third downs. If he refines his route running and gets better picking up blitzes, he’d be the perfect prospect. Montgomery’s downhill style makes him ideally suited for a man blocking scheme.

However, he does have great vision and does a great job pressing the line that lends itself to a zone blocking scheme. Teams looking for an every down back will find one in Montgomery. With his size, running style, and receiving ability he reminds me of a former small school star turned Hall of Fame RB. Montgomery isn’t as highly touted and doesn’t have the same game-breaking speed, but he’s similar to LaDainian Tomnlinson.