Giants pick shifty tailback Paul Perkins in 5th round

The New York Giants have selected running back Paul Perkins out of UCLA in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

It's a mild surprise Perkins was available that late in the draft. Though he isn't a top-tier athlete, Perkins was highly productive in college and forced defenders to miss tackles at a rate that ranked among the best in the nation.

Perkins likely projects as part of a running-back-by-committee approach in the NFL. With the Giants' depth chart at the position in flux, it's possible Perkins will carve out a significant role for himself as a rookie.

Paul Perkins Bio

Position: RB
School: UCLA
College Experience: Redshirt junior
Height: 5-10
Weight: 208 lbs

Strengths

• Highly elusive. Forced defenders to miss tackles at a higher rate than top running back prospects Ezekiel Elliott and Derrick Henry.
• Consistently displays good footwork.
• Excellent fit for zone-blocking schemes.
• Surprisingly effective in pass protection.

Weaknesses

• Lacks ideal size and speed.
• Occasionally runs with poor pad level.
• Probably won't break as many tackles when facing bigger and more technically sound NFL defenders.
• Small frame likely means Perkins cannot be used in a feature back role and must be part of a timeshare, perhaps in the lesser role.

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