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East Carolina Pirates running back Keaton Mitchell is projected to be a late second-round or early third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The rapid 5-foot-9 and 184 pounds running back is one of the most underrated prospects in this year's draft, and could be a steal for a playoff contender in the next few years.
Mitchell was a major winner in the 2023 NFL Combine as he showcased the elite speed and solid measurables to wow the scouts at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis.
He led the FBS in runs of 15+ yards last season with 29 as when he gets out in front of defenders, he'll rarely get caught from behind. When he's cut off from the explosive run, he's proven elusive in space, with 64 forced missed tackles on the year.
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Keaton Mitchell's NFL Combine Performance
Here is how Keaton Mitchell performed at the NFL Combine performance, which took place at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
- 40-Yard Dash - 4.37 Seconds
- 10-Yard Split - 1.48 Seconds
- Vertical Jump - 38’’
- Broad Jump - 10’ 6’’
What are the strengths and weaknesses of Keaton Mitchell?
Mitchell is an interesting prospect, and you can expect to see him blow past NFL defenders in the next couple of years. Here are some of his key strengths and major weaknesses heading into the 2023 NFL Draft.
Strengths
- He led the FBS with 54 runs of 10-plus yards in 2022.
- Pure speed to eliminate pursuit angles and strike with long touchdowns.
- Able to cut and burst in a single motion.
- Rides tight to the blocker when slipping through interior creases.
Weaknesses
- On the smaller side for an NFL running back.
- Need help to finish runs falling forward.
- Needs a clear point of entry as a ball carrier.
- Needs to have the size to stand in against blitzes.
How did Keaton Mitchell perform in the 2022 college season?
Keaton Mitchell entered the 2022 college football season knowing that he needed to show up in order to get drafted into the NFL. The 2022 college football season was his third year at East Carolina University and his second to last year of college eligibility. His first two seasons were decent, but truthfully nothing out of the ordinary.
Mitchell did his 2023 NFL Draft hopes a world of good with his 2022 performances, as he led the FBS with 54 runs of 10-plus yards in 2022. He also put up a stat line of 201 rush attempts, 1,452 passing yards, and 14 rushing touchdowns. He also showed off his receiving chops, making 27 catches for 252 receiving yards and one touchdown for the season.
