By David F. Cohen
If — as has been rumored in variously Philly circles and advocated by the know-nothing Angelo Cataldi — the Eagles believe running back extraordinaire Shady McCoy has seen better days and is too costly, who will carry the load for the Birds in 2015?
This week’s Scouting Combine in Indy will just heighten what one scout has called “the deepest and most talented group of running backs he’s seen in years.”
After two consecutive seasons without a running back selected in the first round of the NFL Draft, that drought should end this year when both Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon and Georgia’s Todd Gurley should be first-round selections.
Here’s a look at some of the best of that group with the scout’s comments on each, thanks to Mark Eckel of NJ.com.:
Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin, 6-1, 215: “He’s got just about everything. He has speed, he’s explodes through the hole. He’s strong, tough to bring down. If there’s a flaw, it’s he still a work in progress as a receiver.”
Todd Gurley, Georgia, 6-1, 226: “He’ll just run you over. He’s coming off the injury, which will affect him some, but he’s still real good. He’s a good receiver, too.”
Jay Ajayi, Boise State, 6-0, 216 “This guy is good. He’s strong. He’s fast. He can catch the ball. There isn’t anything he doesn’t do well.”
Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska, 5-9, 195: “Another real good one, he’s play fast. He has excellent quickness. He was the star of the Senior Bowl.”
Duke Johnson, Miami, 5-9, 200: “A little small, like (Abdullah), but also very quick and real productive. He can catch, and he’s a return guy. Yeah, he’s like (Darren) Sproles, but even better.”
T.J. Yeldon, Alabama, 6-2, 221: “He’s a little overrated, because he’s coming from Alabama, but he’s not bad. He’s strong, but he’s not very fast. He would be a good second back if you already have a No. 1.”
Tevin Coleman, Indiana, 6-1, 210: He’s big and fast, and that’s good. But he still needs some work on his overall game.”
