2019 NFL Combine: 6 Players With the Most to Gain
Elijah Holyfield, RB, Georgia
Even though we never got to see Elijah Holyfield as the true lead back for the Georgia Bulldogs, it doesn't mean he should be ruled out from consideration as a top running back prospect in this limited class -- that is, if he posts a good time in the 40-yard dash.
After waiting behind the duo of Nick Chubb and Sony Michel for two years, Holyfield split time with D'Andre Swift in 2018. Holyfield averaged 6.4 yards per carry and cleared 1,000 yards while impressing observers with his footwork, movement, and power. As a receiver, Holyfield only caught seven passes in three years on a Georgia offense that doesn't throw to running backs often. Clearly, it will be very important to see how Holyfield looks catching the ball during this week's tests.
Standing 5'11" and weighing 215 pounds, Holyfield is built like a high-usage back, yet he comes out of college with very little mileage. Looking at the PlayerProfiler database, speed score is going to be key for setting the level of expectations for Holyfield. A 40-yard dash in the 4.4 range puts Holyfield among the likes of Lamar Miller, DeMarco Murray, and Marshawn Lynch. A handful of similar-sized players that ran in the low-4.5's have also turned out to be successful, like the aforementioned Michel.
A strong speed score should rocket Holyfield past the various sub-200 pound running backs that are ranked him on current draft boards. While he lacks a desirable collegiate production profile over multiple years, this is part and parcel with playing at Georgia. If Holyfield runs well at the combine, his final season numbers and impressive tape are enough to warrant a surge of newfound excitement.
