Kenneth Gainwell 2021 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Name: Kenneth Gainwell

Position: Running Back

College: Memphis

Height: 5’8”

Weight: 201 lbs

Overall Rank: No. 126 overall

Position Rank: RB9

Strengths: Vision is the key to Gainwell’s game. He’s excellent at finding rushing lanes whether it’s a one-cut downhill play or a cut-back to the weakside. He’s also dangerous in the open field as he has a feel for the location of defenders. He’s able to quickly cut off his plant foot and is able to stack moves to beat defenders. Gainwell runs with the needed urgency and patience, which is a hard trait for college runners to learn. His ability as a pass-catcher will excite teams and those who view him as a potential contributor and not star in the backfield will be happy.

Weaknesses: A redshirt sophomore entry into the draft, Gainwell started just one season in college. His athletic profile doesn’t wow you—his speed, power and acceleration are just average on a small frame that has taken a lot of hits. His lack of size and play power makes Gainwell a hard projection as an inside runner which could limit his value to NFL teams. Chunk plays are limited on his tape as he lacks runaway speed.

What I Love: Gainwell’s eyes are something to behold. He’s always finding openings and small lanes to crash through in the run game. Especially in the open field, he has a sixth sense for defenders.

NFL Comparison: Chase Edmonds

Grade: 65/100

Position Specific Traits:
(key: +, ++, +++ positive scale | -, - -, - - - negative scale)

Agility: ++
Ball Security: ++
Blocking: - -
Contact Balance: -
Hands: ++
Power: - -

Speed: -