CJ Prosise can make a big impact in 2016

Seattle Seahawks’ rookie running back CJ Prosise is a bit raw as a runner, but his athleticism and receiving skills will allow him to make a major impact in 2016.

The first thing that jumps out when watching CJ Prosise’s tape is that he us a very fluid runner. He has tremendous hip flexibility, and changes direction effortlessly, making his cuts difficult to read for defenders. Combine that with excellent speed, and you have the making of a runner that will do well on plays outside the tackles.

Prosise is new to the RB position. He was originally a WR, and has spent just six games as the feature RB in college. As you might expect, he is a bit of a work in progress as far as his running vision and reading his blocks.

While he’ll miss a cutback lane here and there, he shows natural instincts as a ballcarrier overall. When he sees a lane, he’ll put his foot in the ground and burst through the hole. Prosise is a good fit for Seattle’s zone-stretch plays.

Prosise runs too upright at times. He needs to learn to keep his pads low and not let defenders get underneath him. When he learns that, he has a chance to be a great runner. He’s got great balance and keeps his feet moving through contact, allowing him often gain extra yards.

Prosise’s value as a rookie will mostly come in the passing game. His time as a wide receiver really shows. He’s got natural hands, and he is very quick in and out of his breaks. He’ll present a very tough mismatch for opposing defenses, as LBs will struggle to stay with him in coverage.

Overall, it is clear why the Seahawks used a third round pick on him. Prosise will take over the third-down role that Fred Jackson and Robert Turbin have held the last few seasons. Unlike those other two, Prosise has the potential to develop into a dynamic runner that can greatly add to the offense.