Analysis and Picks for Wisconsin Badgers Football in the Upcoming NFL Draft
By Jon Rzepecki
Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
With the departure of MJD from Jacksonville, the Jaguars cannot solely rely on Toby Gerhart to both run and catch out of the backfield, and then wait for Denard Robinson to shine. I think the Jags take a hard look at White with their No. 144 pick, but let him slide. The Pittsburgh Steelers need a solid back that can spell Le’Veon Bell on third downs.
– Jon Rzepecki Steelers R5 No. 157
Even though he only started 14 games in his career and shared the backfield most of his time at Wisconsin, I believe White has a bright future in the NFL. There’s not much wear on the tires and catching the ball out of the backfield and pass protection make White an attractive pick. Around the fifth round is where I see White landing, possibly to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
– Taylor Johnson Jaguars R5 No. 144
Durable and speedy with great balance, White’s real value in the NFL may be in his pass-catching ability. He is one of Wisconsin’s most consistent running backs of despite playing second fiddle to John Clay, Montee Ball and Melvin Gordon III during his career. Do not overlook the fact that Brees may be advocating for a replacement of sorts for departed back Darren Sproles. If White slides away from New Orleans, look for either the Jaguars or Browns to pull the trigger on White in the fourth round.
– Danny Zillmer Saints R3 No. 91
White amassed 4,015 yards on 643 carries, scoring 45 touchdowns over his four-year career as a Badger. White has great vision, makes strong cuts at the second level, and has a strong burst out of that break, but he lacks size. The Chicago Bears have next to nothing behind Matt Forte, so expect them to draft at least one running back in May. White would be hard for them to pass on if he’s available in the fifth round.
– Jim Oxley Bears R5 No. 156