NCAA Scouting – Player Profile: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia by Rob Staton 8/3/2009
Knowshon Moreno probably won’t go in the top ten picks because teams prefer a two back system these days and don’t want to pay for a ‘franchise’ back. That doesn’t stop Moreno having top ten talent and some team will likely get a bargain later in the draft. He doesn’t possess elite breakaway speed but everything else about Moreno suggests he can have a big impact on the NFL.
A true triple threat back as a runner, receiver and blocker Moreno attacks the line of scrimmage and always finishes his runs. He doesn’t have great size (217 lbs 5’11) but he more than makes up for it with intensity and a desire to get that extra yard. He’s become something of a youtube sensation his highlight reel is one of the best you’ll find whether he’s hurdling a defender or making an eye catching cutback. Alongside Matt Stafford, he was the focal point of Georgia’s offense registering 2736 yards and 30 touchdowns in just two years.
What we like about Moreno
Infectious personality on and off the field, Moreno is possibly the most likeable prospect in the 2009 NFL draft. Tough competitor who plays with a swagger and his tenacious attitude belittles his lack of size. Superb vision, is able to seek out a running lane and get to the hole quickly. Unmatchable cut back ability enables him to find space and break off a big gain. Above average catcher out of the backfield and a willing blocker. Very athletic, capable of leaping over a defender or diving to get to the end zone acrobatically. Always finishes his runs and won’t ever choose to go out of bounds. Difficult to bring down and will usually get passed the first tackle, can carry a defender an extra couple of yards. Seems to always know where the first down marker is and even when it looks like he’s been stopped, finds a second effort to get those crucial extra yards. Durable athlete, never misses time despite his competitive nature and an excellent option when looking to close out the game in the fourth quarter.
Question marks about Moreno
Doesn’t have elite breakaway speed (4.6 at the combine), unlikely to provide a home run threat. Lacks the ideal size and bulk that NFL teams look for. Listed at 5’11 but looks smaller on the field. His exuberance could be penalised in the NFL sometimes celebrates a bit too much. Question marks about his ability to carry the load for a full season, may be more useful in a two back system.
Highlight of college career
Rushing for 188 yards and scoring three touchdowns as Georgia defeat rivals Florida 42-30 in 2007. Opened the scoring by leaping over the line of scrimmage for a short TD and in celebration, the entire Bulldog roster stormed the field to celebrate.
Other snippets
Born July 16th 1987 in Belford, New Jersey. Mike Mayock lists Moreno as the seventh best player in the 2009 NFL Draft. Has been compared to LaDainian Tomlinson by Chris Steuber at Scout.com whilst others suggest he’s comparable to Barry Sanders. Could be a surprise to break into the top ten. If not, he provides great value between picks 10-20. Would be valuable to a team looking for an impact rookie.
NCAA Scouting – Player Profile:
What we like about Moreno
