2020 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
Career Snapshot
Three-year starter who earned First Team All-America honors in each of his final two seasons at Wisconsin. Rushed for 2,003 yards and 21 touchdowns and caught 26 passes for 252 yards and five TDs as a junior in 2019. Rushed for 2,194 yards and 16 scores as a sophomore. Fell just short of 2,000 rushing yards as a true freshman with 1,977 yards and 13 TDs on 299 carries. Became the first player in FBS history to rush for 6,000 yards over a three-year span.
Positives
A super-productive college ball carrier who is best as a downhill and between-the-numbers runner. Patient, waits for blocks to develop, and finds the running lanes. Runs with authority through the hole, has a tremendous burst of speed, and easily beats defenders into the open field. Strong, breaks the initial tackle and carries defenders for yards at a clip.
Works to get as much yardage as possible from each carry and falls forward when tackled. Displays outstanding vision and football instincts. Terrific pass-catcher out of the backfield who adjusts to the errant throw and makes the reception away from his frame.
Negatives
Does not have quick change-of-direction skills. Can’t improvise or create yardage. Loses momentum when he alters the angle of runs and cannot make defenders miss.
Analysis
Taylor is a tremendous downhill ball carrier who grinds it out on the inside. He comes with a lethal combination of speed and power, but he’s a scheme-limited ball carrier who isn’t skilled enough for every offense. Best as an inside power runner, Taylor will be very productive at the next level in the proper scheme.