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2018 NFL Scouting Combine: the 49ers look for running backs

By Joseph Naki

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Georgia running back Nick Chubb looks on after working out during the 2018 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Georgia running back Nick Chubb looks on after working out during the 2018 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Royce Freeman, Oregon

With a penchant to run outside zone in his offensive attack, Kyle Shanahan’s selections at running back must fit his scheme in order to be successful.

At 5-foot-11, coming in at a healthy 234 pounds, Royce Freeman is a haul to bring down. Freeman is strong at the point of contact, able to get on the perimeter with decent speed and possesses natural skills Shanahan touts for his offense.

CBSSports.com describes Freeman’s combine effort:

"One of the more stoutly built running backs in this year’s class at 5-foot-11 and 234 pounds, Freeman displayed surprising twitchiness on Friday. He had the third-fastest three-cone time (6.90), ran a 4.54 in the 40-yard dash and had a 34-inch vertical with a 10-foot-2 broad jump."

Like every prospect that comes into the NFL, every player has some sort of weakness. For Freeman, its his lack of breakaway speed. However, in the red zone and, in particular, the middle of the field where perimeter run game becomes much more significant, Freeman’s natural abilities would most be utilized in these areas.

Shanahan has his eyes on a prospect slated to come off the board between the third and fourth round.

Maybe we should keep our eyes on the former Duck as well.