Mario Pender (Athlon Consensus #37)

The Analysis

This is one of the most complete running backs in a class loaded with elite ball carriers. Once he adds a few pounds of power and strength, Pender will be a near perfect build for the workhorse roll on a college gridiron (5-11, 210). When you combine his ability to power through the middle of a defense with his explosiveness, burst, acceleration, cutting ability and top end speed, you get an elite level three-down running back. He has excellent short-space agility but can also get to the edge with straight line speed - and the vision to make a quick decision in the hole. Pender will need to develop his receiving skills, but he has enough tools that this will not be an issue for him on the next level. This is one of the most complete running backs in the entire nation and has a chance to compete for time early on in his career.