Darren McFadden Scouting Report and Draft Status

Going into the Scouting Combine, Darren McFadden had the look of a top 5 pick. After running a 4.33 in the 40 yard dash he validated that opinion and cemented his status as the top running back in the draft.

The 6'2" running back is coming off a year in which he gained 1,725 yards and tallied 15TDs. He improved on his yardage and touchdown totals each year he was at Arkansas and was the runner up for the Heisman Trophy this past year.

McFadden has shown the ability to fight for yards as well as catch the ball out of the backfield, proving that he is a dual threat with both good size and excellent speed. He has the potential to go the distance each time he touches the ball.

Weaknesses

On the negative side, McFadden does have some character issues with at least one off the field altercation and two children on the way, one in July and another in August.

Additionally, during the time he spent at Arkansas, he split carries with RB Felix Jones. This has raised doubts about his ability to carry the load for an entire NFL season. Some scouts have said the he might run too upright, exposing him to unnecessary punishment. However, these issues should not gave too much of an effect on his draft position.

Draft Scenario

The Miami Dolphins hold the first pick in the draft and with Ronnie Brown already in the fold, it is doubtful that they would take McFadden with the first pick. However, the Big Tuna is now at the helm and I am pretty sure he has his own ideas on what to do with the pick. I would not be surprised to see someone trade up to #1 to get McFadden and the Dolphins will listen to all offers.

The St.Louis Rams own the 2^nd pick and they also seem to be solid at running back with Steven Jackson. Although Jackson is coming off an injury plagued season, he is still viewed as a premiere back and came on strong during the last couple of weeks of the season. The Rams offensive line was a real problem area last year and the Rams are expected to look there first.

The Atlanta Falcons solved their need at running back by signing free agent Michael Turner. With this news, it seems unlikely that they will take McFadden. Additionally, if any team is to be scared off by the characters issues it is the Falcons. They have had enough bad press in the last year to last a lifetime.

The Oakland Raiders are set at quarterback after drafting JaMarcus Russell last year. During the off season last year, the Raiders signed Dominic Rhodes from the Colts even though they already had Lamont Jordan and Justin Fargas on the roster. This doesn't exactly scream confidence in the two incumbents. All three played last year with none of them separating themselves from the other. If McFadden is there at #4, he will be wearing the silver and black.

If for some reason, he is still on the board after the Raiders pick, I see the Chiefs passing since they already have Larry Johnson and plenty of other holes to fill.

Next up would be the Jets. There is no way the Jets will pass him up. The Thomas Jones signing last year turned out to be a stop gap measure at best. Look for them to draft a running back during the first few rounds.

Other teams from the top 10 that might be interested would be the Patriots, Ravens and Bengals. All three of these teams could possibly pick him.

Sources:

Scott Wright - Darren McFadden Scouting Report - Scott Wright's Draft Countdown

McFadden's Quick Recovery - Yahoo Sports