Jaylen Wright's speed could help amid weak RB class

Tennessee RB Jaylen Wright confirmed faith in his long speed by running a 4.38-second 40 time at the Scouting Combine on Saturday. That gives him a speed score well above average for the position and ranked second among RBs at this year's Combine. Wright delivered limited college production, including just 8 receptions before last season (when he had 22). Wright averaged only 5.7 yards per catch for his college career but averaged 6.2 per rush. That increased each year, topping out at 7.4 per carry in 2023. Wright's draft capital will be interesting. Be careful not to overrate him in early best ball drafting.

The Dolphins added Tennessee RB Jaylen Wright in Round 4. Wright is one of the most explosive RBs in this year’s class. He averaged 6.2 yards per carry over his three college seasons, including a huge 7.4 yards per carry in 2023. 14.0% of Wright’s runs last year went for 15+ yards – the second-highest rate among this year’s top-25 RB prospects. So it wasn’t a big surprise when he blazed a 4.38-second 40 time at 5’11 and 210 pounds. Wright isn’t just a pure speed back, though. He runs with plenty of power, averaging 4.35 yards after contact per attempt last year – fifth among 157 qualifying RBs. Wright played in a spread offense at Tennessee that afforded him some huge running lanes. He’ll have a transition to make to his NFL scheme. But his combination of size, explosiveness, and long speed can’t be taught. Wright also proved capable in the passing game this past year, catching 22 balls for 141 yards. We see a lot of Lamar Miller in his game. Wright adds more speed to an explosive Dolphins offense, although he’ll be challenged to find playing time behind De’Von Achane and Raheem Mostert. Mostert recently inked an extension that keeps him in Miami through the 2025 season.