Chris Rodriguez is a classic style of running back – the between the tackles power runner who can gash a defense for quick gains and offers some power to his game. With his consistency, he could find a role in the league for the rest of the decade. That being said, health will have to maintain over that span. He will be a good bit older than a lot of the running backs in this upcoming class, which may limit interest in him.

HT: 5110
WT: 224
Year: Super Redshirt Junior
High School: Ola (McDonogh, GA)
Rating: 3-star (0.8468)

Chris Rodriguez scouting notes

Pros:

• Doesn’t offer breakaway speed, but is effective in space. Probably will run a high 4.5/low 4.6. 
• Very shifty through the hole. Intriguing quickness. Offers a decent cut, especially in the open field.
• Not a very powerful runner, but can get gritty between the tackles. Has a solid stiff arm. 
• Decent brute. Not great but certainly is capable.
• Great job reading his blocks and finding the gaps.
• Does well getting low while running through traffic to make his body a smaller target as well as gain power to absorb contact with.
• He has an excellent lean forward. He just does a great job of absorbing contact and staying upright. 
• Good receiver out of the backfield. Rodriguez was effectively used in various ways and at different points underneath. 

Cons:

• Not quick enough to make defenders miss consistently. 
• Relatively good body control, it’s harder for Rodriguez to control himself effectively because of his larger frame. 
• Acceleration is average. Doesn’t have the instant burst to thrust into straight after a cut.
• Limited explosiveness.
• Likes to go off script and doesn’t always make the right choice with it. 
• Doesn’t try to understand defenders, just lowers his head and initiates contact. 
• Offers some ability as a chip blocker but was largely ineffective.