NFL Draft 2018: Bo Scarbrough to Giants? Why Alabama RB makes sense

Whether the Giants invest the No. 2 overall pick in Penn State running back Saquon Barkley, or look for value later in April's NFL Draft, the position is primed to be one that new general manager Dave Gettleman will focus on upgrading this offseason.

The Giants met with Alabama running back Bo Scarbrough last week in Indianapolis during the NFL Scouting Combine.

"I met with the Giants," Scarbrough said. "They have great coaches, very smart, and intelligent coaches."

If the Giants miss out on, or pass up taking Barkley at No. 2, Scarbrough could be a target for Gettleman in the third or fourth round.

A violent bowling ball of a downhill running back, Scarbrough rushed for 596 yards and eight touchdowns last season, while splitting carries with Damien Harris. Scarbrough averaged 5.7 yards per carry in his three-year collegiate career.

Had it not been for a broken leg, and various knee injuries suffered during his time in Tuscaloosa, Scarbrough might have been in the conversation as a potential first or second around pick.

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Last week at the Combine, Scarbrough ran a 4.52 40-yard dash, and posted a 40-inch vertical leap while finishing with the best broad jump among running backs at 11'4".

Scarbrough has drawn some comparisons to Eagles running back LeGarrette Blount, whom the previous Giants regime expressed interest in last offseason.

"LeGarrette Blount is a talented running back," Scarbrough said. "He's physical. Determined that he's going to get those yards. I would like to model my game after his, but I have to take my talents and be myself, and try to mix my game with his."

If the Giants are unable to land Blount via free agency, Scarbrough would certainly serve as a younger and cheaper alternative that first-year head coach Pat Shurmur could lean on particularly in short-yardage situations and along the goal line.

Below is a scouting report of Scarbrough and highlights from his 2017 season with the Crimson Tide:

STRENGTHS

Tapered, powerful physique. Is a punisher behind his pads. Can absorb solid blows and keep runs alive. Will always fall forward once he gets a head of steam behind him. Plays with steady tempo. Has surprising ability to gather weight and cut sharply downhill as outside zone runner. Generally comfortable making reads and choosing track from I-formation. Tackling him high ends poorly for defenders. Able to create additional yardage through power and long speed. Able to batter defenses late in game and then hit the chunk play. Short yardage touchdown specialist who can leap up-and-over the pile. Had dominant stretch against Auburn, Florida, Washington and Clemson late last year. Can thump in blitz pick-up. Hasn't had to handle a heavy workload thanks in part to Alabama's committee approach.

WEAKNESSES

Plays with upright running style. Frame too accessible for big hitters looking for a slab of ribs. Durability is a major concern. Has suffered through multiple lower body injuries dating back to high school. Long strider who needs a long runway to get to top speed. Doesn't have bend and footwork to string moves together. Too big and leggy to counter sudden penetration in backfield and needs runs to stay on schedule. Impatient with a penchant for crowding lead blockers and eliminating his own escape routes. Burst and feel for running lanes is below average. Defenders got hands on him much earlier in the carry than his teammate Damien Harris. Missing second-level vision to play chess against linebackers.

Matt Lombardo may be reached at MLombardo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattLombardoPHL.

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