Detroit Lions 2017 NFL Draft Watchlist: Clemson vs Florida State

Wayne Gallman
Redshirt Junior
#9
Running back
6’0″, 215

Early Draft Projection = Top 75

Clemson entered the season, as a team featuring a ton of NFL interest in their skill players. But the Tigers offense has started slow despite all of their talent. Wayne Gallman wasn’t as highly touted as the bigger name offensive players, but he has been the catalyst in their recent offensive success.

When Gallman suffered a brain injury (concussion) early in last week’s contest, Clemson’s offense stalled. Now, fully cleared by doctors, Gallman will return to the lineup this week for the all-important match-up against the Seminoles. Right now the offensive success is directly linked to the underrated back.

Biggest Strengths:

• Elite pass protection
• Powerful drive runner
• Vision

Biggest Weaknesses:

• Lacks top end speed
• Needs to avoid contact more efficiently
• Body-type is small for a power runner

NFL Impact

In a loaded running back draft class, Gallman could be the most underrated. NFL networks Daniel Jeremiah noted in September that he was hearing good things from his NFL sources and reported this:

"“Clemson RB Wayne Gallman is one of the most underrated players in the country. He can do a little of everything. Runs extremely hard and can play on all three downs.” — NFC college scouting director"

Gallman is an angry runner who has an arsenal of moves including a jump cut and an excellent spin move. Here’s an example of his shiftiness and balance:

Lions Target?

With a current draft projection of late second or early third round, Gallman would be a steal for the Lions. But as noted above, his stock should be on the rise. If he’s there in the second round, he will give Bob Quinn some real cost-benefit questions to answer.

A power back, who is elusive, with elite pass protection skills for a second round pick. Yes, please.