Brian Leonard, Rutgers. This is one of the best pure football players in this year's draft – one that is versatile enough to play either running back or fullback at the next level.
Leonard bulked up for his senior campaign in order to serve as the lead blocker for Ray Rice, but what impressed both scouts, coaches and teammates alike was that, unlike most potential pro athletes, he put his team and its needs ahead of his own after having gained over 3,900 yards of total offense in his first three seasons with the Scarlet Knights.
He has some of the draft's best hands out of the backfield, having totaled 207 career receptions. He was able to bruise his way to yardage in the second half of games, but he also has quick feet to the hole and can bounce a few carries outside for big gains. A good cutback-style runner, Leonard uses very good vision, balance and power to consistently gain yardage. That said, he needs to make better use of his size once he gets into the open field. He has been susceptible to being tackled around the ankles or when defenders grab at his legs.
Leonard proved to be a viable and productive member of the backfield from the fullback position. A very good cut blocker, he can stand his ground firmly when picking up the blitz. He will dip his head at times and lead in without having the full balance of his body weight underneath him, but his effort is never waning.
Leonard's workout numbers will surprise. He has spent the offseason getting his weight back down to the mid-220-pound range while focusing on his explosiveness, speed and quickness in the 40-yard dash and drills. It should not be surprising to see him run in the 4.5 range at the combine.
