Eagles reportedly set to host San Diego State running back/returner on pre-draft visit

San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny is one of 30 2018 NFL Draft prospects who will meet with the Eagles in Philadelphia for an official pre-draft visit, according to Tony Pauline of DraftAnalyst.com.

Penny, who turned 22 in February, measures in at 5-11, 220 pounds. He finished his college career with 488 carries for 3,656 rushing yards (a whopping 7.5 average) and 38 touchdowns. He also pitched in with 42 receptions for 479 yards and six scores. As a kick returner, Penny averaged 30.2 yards per return, which is good. He scored a touchdown on seven of his 81 returns, which is even better. Penny’s limited work as a punt returner resulted in two returns for 70 yards and one score.

That’s some great all-around production. And production is a quality that Eagles vice president of football operations Joe Douglas seemingly values quite a bit. Just look at last year’s draft class. Derek Barnett broke Reggie White’s sack record at Tennessee. Rasul Douglas was tied for the NCAA lead in interceptions. Donnel Pumphrey, Penny’s old teammate, is the NCAA’s all-time leading rusher.

Unlike Pump, Penny has the potential to be a feature back in the NFL. The Eagles like to rotate their backs, yes, but he’s a guy who could potentially take the bulk of the load in the future. Especially if Jay Ajayi, who is on the last year of his rookie contract, isn’t re-signed after this season.

Penny projects to be a Day 2 pick. Unfortunately, the Eagles don’t have any of those right now. With that said, I’d be surprised if Howie Roseman didn’t find a way to make at least one selection in the second or third round. Penny versatility’s presents good value for the Eagles if they can move up to draft him.

Here’s what BGN draft writer Ben Natan has written about Penny.

While Rashaad Penny may not be the classic speed type of running back; he still has the athleticism to break away from defenses. The 220 pounder is a do it all back who can contribute on passing downs and as a returner.

Scouting report from NFL.com:

Draft Projection: Rounds 2-3

Sources Tell Us: “You know exactly who he is when you watch the tape. I don’t think there are going to be any surprises when you get him into our league because you know he is going to make guys miss and he’s going to run hard every snap.” -- NFC team regional scout

NFL Comparison: Javorius Allen

Bottom Line: Volume-carry running back who plays with an active running style that rarely sees him slow his feet. Penny has the short-area foot quickness to create yardage for himself, but he doesn’t really have the burst or long speed to be a homerun hitter. His motor gives him a chance to be a productive NFL starter, but he may lack the explosiveness to be a great back.

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Highlights video:

Complete list of known Philadelphia Eagles draft visits

San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny

Western Michigan OT Chukwuma Okorafor - [Click here]

Northern Iowa WR Daurice Fountain - [Click here]

Boise State LB Leighton Vander Esch - [Click here]

Stanford S Justin Reid - [Click here]

LSU RB Derrius Guice - [Click here]

LSU CB Donte Jackson - [Click here]