The Seattle Seahawks added an intriguing running back in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, selecting Robert Turbin out of Utah State. While injury concerns have hampered his development at times, he still managed to rush for 1,517 yards and 19 touchdowns last season with the Aggies. The guys over at National Football Post took a look at some video and provide us with a scouting report on the shifty running back.
Here were a few things they liked that stood out on film:
- Possesses an ideal physical make-up. Is a thick kid with a low center of gravity and natural power/girth through both his upper and lower half.
- Is a powerful/aggressive back who can make himself small, runs behind his pads and can churn out tough yards through contact.
- Has experience running from the gun, running from more typical zone looks and also playing some option football. Isn't just a downhill guy.
- Can catch the football out of the backfield in the screen game. Looks natural when asked to adjust and pluck off his frame.
- Possesses the physical make-up and patience to pick-up blitzing linebackers and hold his own on third down. Takes pride in pass protection.
And while there are certainly things to like about Durbin, there are a few concerns:
- Isn't a real dynamic athlete. Lacks a great first step in all areas of the game and isn't a guy who is going to outpace many angles in the open field. Looks like a 4.6 guy.
- Isn't the most decisive of runners when asked to find a hole quickly at the line of scrimmage. Will slow his feet trying to decipher information and leave some yards on the field.
- Will get lose with the football and let the ball get away from his pad level when he gets into the open field.
There is also the concern of afore mentioned knee injuries, but at the same time, it does mean that he didn't take too much of a beating during his college days. Hopefully the young running back can stay healthy with the Seahawks and create a very dynamic 1-2 punch with Marshawn Lynch.
For complete coverage of the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation Seattle StoryStream for continued updates.