Despite the absence of a surefire first-round talent at the running back position in the 2022 NFL Draft, there are multiple intriguing options on Day 2 who can become quality NFL starters. At the top of that list is Isaiah Spiller, Texas A&M’s 6’1″ 225 lb. playmaker. Let’s dive into the tape to see why he is currently my highest-ranked running back!
Strengths: Spiller is a really good downhill runner who possesses good size and a compact build. He is patient to let blocks develop and has terrific vision to choose what holes to attack. His burst is really good and he has really good cutting ability. Spiller has good contact balance to break tackles and does well to fall forward at the end of his run to gain extra yards. He excels at bouncing runs to the outside as well, showing good quickness to beat the defender to the corner. Spiller is an elite receiver, which adds so much value to his profile. He is a really good check-down option, making himself readily available. He is great after the catch, given his burst, shiftiness, vision, and tackle-breaking ability. Spiller offers far more in the passing game than being a check-down option though, as he is a really good route-runner with impressive crispness in his routes, especially for a running back of his size. He has good hands and adjusts well to the pass too. Spiller has lined up in the slot and on the perimeter, which is a testament to his refinement as a receiver. He is dangerous on wheel routes as well. Spiller is good in pass protection, as he has a stout base that can absorb contact. He also improved his technique from 2020 to 2021. Additionally, he is really good as a downfield blocker and as a lead blocker, always giving a lot of effort.
Weaknesses: Spiller’s patient running style hurts him when blocks fail to develop, as he can get tackled behind the line of scrimmage when he could have gotten a yard or two had he plowed forward earlier. He benefited from Texas A&M’s offensive line’s incredible blocking, and it is unclear how he will adjust to having less of an advantage in this area in the NFL. Spiller could especially struggle as a downhill runner behind a bad offensive line for these reasons. He had four games this season in which he averaged less than three yards per carry, which is evidence that he struggles when his offensive line isn’t performing. Spiller has more burst than long speed, as there are instances of him getting tracked down by defenders in the open field.
Bottom Line: I believe that Spiller will become a good starting running back in the NFL. He excels as a downhill runner with his burst, vision, and contact balance, and can also bounce runs outside effectively. Spiller is a terrific receiver, with impressive route-running and after-the-catch abilities. He can hold his own in pass protection as well. His long speed isn’t the best and he struggles when blocking is poor, but overall he checks almost every single box. Spiller is a safe bet to outdo his draft position and find success in the NFL.
Sources
- Cover Image: https://www.goodbullhunting.com/2021/12/14/22834523/texas-a-m-aggies-rb-isaiah-spiller-declares-for-2022-nfl-draft-college-football
