Eddie Lacy's draft stock was beginning to sink. After an impressive college career at Alabama, he entered into the NFL draft as the top running back option in this year's class. However an injury hampered his ability to be able to work out at the NFL combine of Alabama's first Pro Day. Many wondered if he was really the talented running back everyone thought he was. Well, Lacy answered those questions and then some when he ran an impressive 40-yard dash time and showed a great skillset in Alabama's second Pro Day. Was it enough to push him back in first-round contention?
Lacy was on display Thursday as many scouts showed up to watch his highly anticipated Pro Day. Lacy had been recovering from a hamstring injury that left him unable to work out multiple times. He was finally healthy enough to work out in front of scouts, impressing many in the process.
Lacy recorded an unofficial time of 4.58 in the 40-yard dash. For a running back at this weight of 230 pounds, that speed is more than enough to raise his draft stock back into the first round. He should great ball handling and receiving skills that prove he is as versatile of a back as people thought. While he still appeared slightly out of shape, he did enough to put him back into the eyes of multiple teams. Last season while helping lead Alabama to back-to-back national titles, Lacy rushed for 1,322 yards and 17 touchdowns. He also recorded two receiver touchdowns.
The St. Louis Rams have shown a high amount of interest in Lacy this offseason. They have brought him in to meet with the team. The Rams will make their first selection at No. 16 and Lacy could easily fall right into their lap. The team lost Stephen Jackson to free agency and is in the market for someone to be that premier running back. They made no effort in free agency to sign a veteran to replace Jackson, so the draft is their best option.
The Denver Broncos are also considering Lacy, but it is unclear whether they will pull for him in the first round. The Broncos are reportedly focusing on defense with the first-round pick and could take Lacy in the second. However, Denver does not draft until 58 and Lacy is sure to be gone by then.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to get a deal done with free agency Ahmad Bradshaw, but if that falls through, Lacy could be the top target. The draft one below St. Louis. If the Rams pass on Lacy, then the Steelers will likely swoop him up. A strong Pro Day can do wonders for a player and Lacy is a proven example.
