A Look At: Matt Forte’

Name: Matt Forte’
School: Tulane
Jersey #: 25
Height: 6’1.25
Weight: 219
40 time: 4.48 (est)
Best Fit Position/Role: Starting running back
Ideal Scheme/Role: Single back system/Man Blocking Scheme
Teams Interested: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Green Bay Packers

General Traits
Athletic Ability: An all around athlete that excels in many sports. Good balance and strong legs. Naturally strong and agile. A hard worker that is a natural runner.
Character/Leadership Ability: Leads by example in the weight room and film room. Is very competitive and takes on a leadership role for the team.
Competitive Nature/Work Ethic: Is not outworked by anyone on the team. Is a gym rat that lives in the weight room and is constantly improving. Has become a more complete and better player each year.
Football Intelligence: Is a smart player that loves football and understands his position well. Understand the passing and blocking schemes used and is a willing voice in meetings and when making adjustments.
Size: Has ideal size for an NFL running back. Has a good V shape torso with strong legs and muscular calfs. Looks well toned and in superb shape.
Toughness/Durability: Has played through many carries and bumps. Doesn’t sit out many plays. Is a strong and durable runner. Only one injury during his career.

Position Specific Traits
Ball Protection: Has had no issues with ball control. Has strong hands and squeezes the ball well. Covers up in traffic and switches arms well.
Elusiveness/Feet: Is more of a straight line runner. Is not overly elusive. Has good balance and can make solid cuts. Has strong legs and uses them to power through arm tackles.
Pass Catching: Has not been used much as a receiver, but does show the ability to run routes and make receptions in the flats. Could develop more here.
Pass Blocking: A willing and strong blocker. Some have noted he could play fullback due to his ability to drive block and look for contact. An aggressive blocker. Great motor.
Power: A strong back that can run through arm tackles and weak defenders. Will get through most tackles because of his drive and the fact that he keeps his legs churning throughout a tackle. Gets low and squares up to deliver a blow. Is not a high runner, will win the leverage battle.
Speed: Has deceptive speed, but is not a sprinter. Will likely time in the high 4.4 area. Can outrun defenders to the edge and get away from linebackers.
Vision: Good vision between the tackles. Sees creases and openings. A patient runner that depends on his eyes. Finds openings and doesn’t look to cut back.

General Comments: Forte’ is one of the hottest names in the 2008 NFL Draft class. He is a hard runner that doesn’t put the ball on the ground, is an aggressive player that is ready to be a blocker right now in the NFL. A solid all-around back with loads of potential once he’s put in a pro offense.

Injury Concerns: Torn left meniscus and PCL in 2006.

Could be as good as: Willie Parker, Pittsburgh Steelers
Worst Case: Michael Pittman, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Where he’ll probably go: Late 2nd-Early 3rd
Were he should go: Picks 35-45

Completed By: Matt Miller
Last Updated: 12/7/2007