2023 NFL Draft Scouting Notes: RB Deuce Vaughn, Kansas State

Deuce Vaughn could be interpreted as a clone of Darren Sproles. The two share the same alma mater, remarkably similar sizes and builds, and have a knack for both speed and catching the football. Was used both as a running back and a slot weapon – oftentimes sent in motion. He scored 22 touchdowns as a sophomore, and 12 as a junior.

Deuce Vaughn

RB – Kansas State Wildcats

HT: 5056
WT: 173
Year: Super Sophomore
High School: Cedar Ridge (Round Rock, TX)
Rating: 3-star (0.8464)

Projected Draft Grade: Immediate Role Player

Projection: 3rd/4th Round

Kansas State RB Deuce Vaughn has some real Darren Sproles-style to his game.

– Has the ability to break big runs between the tackles with space.
– See’s the field incredibly well.
– Electric receiver at any point of the field.

5056/173 lbs as of this spring. pic.twitter.com/3cFKYXxofx
— John “Draft” Vogel (@DraftVogel) August 22, 2022

Deuce Vaughn scouting notes

Pros

Good speed, but not groundbreaking. Won’t outrun a lot of secondaries. Will, however, surprise you with his quickness. Should probably run in the 4.52-4.57 range.
Has solid body control. Has an unlimited arsenal of moves and subtleties to make defenders miss.
Extremely explosive runner. Has a great hop. Acceleration is smooth and seamless.
Reads his blocks extremely well. Very patient runner who waits for space and explodes through the crease. Manipulates defenders extremely well.
Excellent receiver. Secures the ball well, and has soft hands. Large catch radius. Extremely reliable receiver. Shows the ability to hold onto the ball through big contact. Makes catches routinely in traffic.
Smooth, swift route runner. Understands how to work open. Crisp routes that show lots of understanding and technique.

Cons

Size is a huge detriment. Many teams will pass on him simply because of that. A team will have to believe and buy into his playmaking ability.
Not a guy who will consistently run between the tackles and make big plays that way.
Almost no power in pass protection, simply doesn’t have the frame to hold up. Has some technique to make up for it and made some impressive blocks in pass protection throughout his career. Quickly positions but is more of a player who just gets in the way.