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2019 NFL Draft: Skill Position sleepers you need to know

By Ryan Roberts

ATHENS, GA - NOVEMBER 10: Jarrett Stidham #8 of the Auburn Tigers heads off the field after failing to make a first down against the Georgia Bulldogs on November 10, 2018 at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
ATHENS, GA - NOVEMBER 10: Jarrett Stidham #8 of the Auburn Tigers heads off the field after failing to make a first down against the Georgia Bulldogs on November 10, 2018 at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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BLOOMINGTON, IN – NOVEMBER 10: Ty Johnson #24 of the Maryland Terapins runs with the ball against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
BLOOMINGTON, IN – NOVEMBER 10: Ty Johnson #24 of the Maryland Terapins runs with the ball against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Running Backs

Ty Johnson, Maryland

While at the University of Maryland, Ty Johnson posted one of the weirdest stat lines imaginable. He posted an incredible career rush average of 7.6 yards per carry, with his lowest single season average standing at 6.4. Despite that impressive yards per tote and a solid build at 5-10 and 212 pounds, Johnson failed to ever secure anything more than a rotational role amongst the running backs.

On film, Johnson demonstrates a dynamic initial burst through the line with underrated long speed to boot. Johnson’s inability to maintain solid contact balance between the tackles will severely hinder any projection to a bell cow role, though. However, this playmaker has more than enough juice to contribute initially on kickoff returns, eventually working into a rotation.

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With Maryland’s anemic offense over the last few seasons, Johnson profiles as a football player who may outplay his production on the next level. Look for Ty Johnson to garner some major attention late Day 3 or as a priority free agent, but one with legitimate upside.

Darwin Thompson, Utah State

After transferring to Utah State from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, Thompson made the most out of his one season in an Aggie uniform, rushing for 1,044 yards and 14 touchdowns on only 153 carries (6.8 yards per carry!).

Thompson showcased above average long speed during the season, routinely breaking long touchdown runs seemingly every week despite a short-stepper style of running. There is also exceptional lower body explosion in Thompson’s game, which is highlighted big time in his ability to maintain balance through contact.

He has also flashed in the passing game in his lone season, racking up 351 yards and two scores on 23 catches, with an eye-popping 15.3 yards per reception.

Some evaluators will be skeptical of Thompson’s underwhelming size (listed at 5-8, 200 pounds), but just do me a  favor and just google Darwin’s adventures in the weight room. The young man is a tank who is poised to be a mid round steal looking for a versatile playmaker.

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