The 2013 NFL draft class is rather light on running backs this year. Only a few coming out can be considered elite and worthy of a first-round pick. Former Alabama running back Eddie Lacy is considered to be the best of the running backs this year, however he has announced he will not be participating in this year's scouting combine. ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that due to a small tear in Lacy's hamstring, he will not participate in any work outs relating to the combine.
Lacy suffered the hamstring tear while training for the upcoming combine and draft. It presumably happened sometime last week while running the 40-yard dash in a mock combine event at IMG. Doctors examined Lacy and performed an MRI which revealed the small tear in the hamstring. Lacy has now decided he cannot workout because of it. He is hopeful he will be able to perform in all drills at Alabama's Pro Day on March 13.
It is unlikely this injury will harm Lacy's draft stock. As long as he is able to show off during the Pro Day, nothing should change as far as where he will place in the draft. He will face many questions about the injury when it comes time for his interviews with teams. If there is one thing that can hurt a running back's career, it is a hamstring injury.
Lacy really opened the eyes of scouts with his performance in the 2013 National Championship game, scoring twice and helping Alabama win its second-consecutive championship. At 220 pounds, Lacy is known for his ability to gain yards after contact. He thrives on running inside the tackles. He gathered 1,322 yards and 17 touchdowns during last year's season. That was all while sharing the load with TJ Yeldon.
Many believe Lacy will thrive as a premier running back in the NFL. Draft analysts have Lacy predicted to go in the first round, possibly to Cincinnati. While this injury should not hurt his draft stock, it does open the door for other running backs to shine at the combine. Wisconsin's Montee Ball, Clemson's Andre Ellington and North Carolina's Giovani Bernard are all expected to work out.
