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A question for you today. Wouldn't it be nice to have two actual rushing or receiving threats in the backfield behind Eli Manning at the same time?
I guess I am old school in that regard. I hate this blocking back/running back thing most NFL teams utilize now where everyone knows the fullback is never going to touch the ball. I like to see the defense have to guess occasionally which running back to key on. The Philadelphia Eagles, and a couple of other teams, have shown us the past couple of seasons that having a fullback who can do more than block is a huge weapon.
That brings me to Virginia fullback Rashawn Jackson. The 6-foot-1, 240-pound Jackson is a do-everything fullback. And, he is the subject of today's Daily NFL Draft Prospect Profile.
Let's take a closer look.
Rashawn Jackson Scouting Reports
From the National Football Post.
Displays a jarring punch on contact as a lead blocker and certainly has the power to eliminate defenders in the run game. He's an intriguing athlete who has the physical makeup to develop into a do-it-all type of fullback at the next level.
From NFL Draft Scout.
Blessed with a legitimate combination of NFL size and athleticism, Jackson will rank among this crop's elite fullbacks. ... Has some tools to ultimately develop into a legitimate interior threat. Good quickness to and through the hole. Decisive runner who presses the line of scrimmage and keeps his legs churning after contact to gain as much yardage as possible. ... Blocking: Good effort to get downfield. Finds his target and is athletic enough to redirect and hit him. ... Too much of a push-blocker, rather than the human pile-driver most teams are looking for in a true lead blocker. ... Developing receiver ... Typically only asked to sneak out of the backfield for dump offs and screens, but has the athletic ability for wheel routes. ... Former inside linebacker who has made a successful transition to fullback for the Cavaliers. Strong special teams player with experience on kickoff return and punt coverage.
From DraftNasty.com.
Reminiscent of former Atlanta Falcons fullback William Andrews in build and versatility, Rashawn Jackson could potentially be the most complete fullback in this year's draft. ... With the ability to run, block and catch, Jackson fits the mold of the prototype fullback.
Why Jackson fits with the Giants
Simple. Are we happy with Madison 'Stone Hands' Hedgecock, or do we cringe every time the ball is heading in his direction? I think you know the answer. Hedgecock is a pure blocking fullback, who really has been just adequate doing that the past two seasons if you believe the Pro Football Focus numbers.
Wouldn't it be nice to have a player who could not only open a hole for Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw or whoever else is back there, but could actually carry the ball once in a while and be reliable when the ball is thrown his way? I sure think so.
Why the Giants should pass
Only because the Giants have lots of other holes to fill before spending a mid- to late-round pick on a fullback.
(E-mail Ed at bigblueview@gmail.com. Follow Big Blue View on Twitter.)