Thomas Rawls Backstory Could be Why Seattle Drafted 3 New RBs in 16

Discussion in 'NFL General Discussion' started by Kurt, Aug 9, 2016.

  1. Kurt

    Kurt That Server Guy Staff Member Fantasy Guru

    Thomas Rawls, RB, Seattle Seahawks

    289 offensive snaps, undrafted (2015), age 23

    In his rookie campaign, Rawls led all running backs in rushing DYAR and finished second in DVOA. He did this despite Seattle's poor offensive line, following in the footsteps of his predecessor Marshawn Lynch by leading ESPN Stats & Info charting with 2.68 average yards after contact. (No other back with at least 100 carries was over 2.3.) So why isn't he our No. 1 prospect instead of Johnson? Context has a lot to say here. The Seahawks spent three picks on running backs this year. Rawls wasn't allowed to be much of a receiver as a rookie, and third-round pick C.J. Prosise would seem to fit that role better going forward. He's also a UDFA, and despite playing for a team that regularly boasts about their UDFAs, he wasn't drafted for a reason. (Actually, a lot of reasons: three felony charges, a knee injury, and an academic suspension from Central Michigan's 2014 appearance in the Bahamas Bowl.) We still really like Rawls' talent. He just has a few more knocks against him.

    Source: ESPN