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Ollie Gordon Prospect Preview
By Charlie Campbell
Career Recap:
Gordon did not make much of an impact in 2022, taking 62 carries for 308 yards (5.0 average) and two touchdowns. He had 12 catches for 76 yards and two scores that season. Thus, he was not expected to be one of the best backs in college football a year later. However, Gordon was phenomenal for the Cowboys as he averaged 6.1 yards per carry while running for 1,732 yards with 21 touchdowns. Gordon was also dangerous as a receiver hauling in 39 passes for 330 yards and a touchdown.
2024 Season Outlook:
With the Big 12 losing Oklahoma and Texas to the SEC, Gordon has a somewhat easy schedule in 2024. The best defenses he is slated to face include Arkansas (Sep. 7), Utah (Sep. 21), Kansas State (Sep. 28), and BYU (Oct. 18).
Prospect Summary:
While the running back position has been downgraded in terms of the number of first-round picks used on prospects and dollars spent on veterans, it still greatly impacts winning versus losing in the NFL. Good starting running backs make a huge impact on an offense’s potency, and Gordon has starting potential for the NFL.
Gordon has a good skill set for the next level as he is a big running back with straight-line speed. There is natural ability for Gordon to be an effective runner as he has very good vision and is a patient runner. While Gordon is big, he is not overly physical and will just plow over would-be tacklers with dominant violence. Gordon uses his size to pick up yards after contact, and he has good contact balance to maintain his feet after contact. Gordon has quality speed to accelerate to the hole before it closes, and he can really open it up in the open field to break off long runs. While Gordon does not have game-breaking speed like Jahmyr Gibbs, Gordon runs well for a big back.
Many big backs struggle in the passing game, but that is not the case with Gordon. In space, Gordon is natural getting to his spot and shows nice hands to make receptions. Gordon can function as a check-down outlet and run choice routes to help his quarterback.
Gordon has things to work on as he enters what will probably be his final season of college football. At times, Gordon runs upright, and he can stand to improve his knee bend. That will make him harder to tackle and get more out of his powerful frame. Gordon takes some build-up time to hit top speed, so working to improve his burst would help him as well.
If Gordon stays healthy and consistent in 2024, he definitely could end up getting a starter grade from NFL scouts.
2025 NFL Draft Expectations:
Entering the 2024 season, Gordon looks like he has early-round potential for the 2025 NFL Draft. Heading into 2024, Gordon might be more of a day-two prospect, as few running backs are getting put into first-round consideration.
RELATED LINKS:
NFL Picks - Sept. 16
2025 NFL Mock Draft - Sept. 11
Fantasy Football Rankings - Sept. 4
NFL Power Rankings - Aug. 28
