2017 NFL Draft Profile: Running Back Joe Mixon

In this 2017 NFL Draft profile, we analyze the strengths and weaknesses of running back Joe Mixon out of Oklahoma University.

With his ability to be an impact player as a runner, wide receiver, and special teams, it helps Joe Mixon stand out in a crowded class of running backs in the 2017 NFL Draft. He has a troubled past that could be a big problem for him to get drafted early on. He will have to convince NFL teams that his apology for hitting a woman was enough and that he meant it.

He earned his head coach Bob Stoop’s respect along with the rest of the coaching staff from the team. Mixon’s future was very bright since day one and when the incident occurred, it caused a major downward spiral in his life.

Mixon is considered to be an average running back in this year’s draft from what people say about him. He reminds many of current running back for the New York Jets, Matt Forte. Mixon enters the draft at 6 foot 1 inches tall and weighs in at 226 pounds. With his size and weight, he is a very explosive player that can help out any team.

STRENGTHS

He is too talented to be covered in the open field that can drive opposing defenses crazy. Mixon is an incredible runner on certain routes, especially from the backfield. A very powerful runner than what he looks like frame wise, he shows incredible balance in being able to take hits and keep his feet moving through contact. He is able to show the agility and speed to create great separation from defenders.

Mixon is a natural football athlete with great acceleration when he hits the holes. He is an average player with his vision on the field in finding open space. He is younger than what most people think he is. Mixon is a very good pass blocker and is able to pick up blitzes attacking his quarterback.

WEAKNESSES

He might have the quickness but he doesn’t have the speed to break away. He has a big problem in keeping the football very tight and could be careless with the football. With the investigation of his character, it might have teams draw away from him.

When Mixon has to run on angles, he has trouble in making moves or doing anything at all. He tends to drop easy passes and shows his frustration on the football field.

VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

DRAFT DAY PREDICTION

It is tough to say where Mixon will be selected because of his troubled past but a team will take a chance on him. He could be a late-round draft pick as he has a lot of work ahead of him. He needs to change how he’s been viewed and just needs to prepare for anything. The way everything looks like, Mixon will probably land in Rounds 3-5.

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