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Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: Stanford at Notre Dame

By Erik Schlitt

November 28, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) runs the ball against Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Joe Schmidt (38) during the second half at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
November 28, 2015; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) runs the ball against Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Joe Schmidt (38) during the second half at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5). Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5). Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /

Christian McCaffrey
Junior
# 5
Running Back
5’11 1/2″, 202

Early Draft Projection = 1st

NFL Comparison: Brian Westbrook

With NFL blood lines (father Ed) and an above-average athletic profile, McCaffrey contributed in all three phases from his first day on campus. His sophomore campaign was one for the record books, with some of his 2015 accolades listed below.

His junior season has recently seen its struggles, as his rebuilt offensive line has been dominated in the last two weeks. To make things worse, he suffered an undisclosed injury in the second half of last weeks game and did not return because of a lopsided score. Keep an eye on the injury report, as it appears he’s headed for a game time decision.

Biggest Strengths:

  • Decision making
  • Elusiveness
  • Burst
  • Elite receiving option

Biggest Weaknesses:

  • Not a prototype lead running back
  • Pass protection
  • Power drive

NFL Future

There is no doubt that McCaffrey is one of the most dynamic players in college football but the question will be: Does his game translate to the NFL?

NFL Networks Bucky Brooks had this to say:

"Considering McCaffrey’s explosive talents as a runner-receiver-returner, I could see an NFL team using the Westbrook blueprint to help the Stanford star maximize his skills as a pro. Scouts frequently discuss prospects’ roles during the pre-draft process and lay out their vision for utilizing a player’s skills. If I was presenting McCaffrey’s case before a general manager or head coach, I would certainly use the former Eagles standout as an example of his potential impact as a pro."

McCaffrey would be a luxury pick for the Lions. There is no doubting any team in the league would covet his skills, but at what cost? On the surface he appears to be a first round lock. But, in order for him to be drafted in the first round, a general manager must be comfortable in two areas: 1) they believe in his value; and 2) their team is strong enough to use a high pick on a player who will likely be a gadget player his first year in the league.

He’d look great in Honolulu Blue, but I don’t think the Lions will be his team.

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