The anchor behind New Mexico’s historic year running the ball will enter the 2017 NFL Draft. Teriyon Gipson, who averaged 8.8 yards a carry in 2016, will look to transition his downhill style to an NFL team.
Height: 5-8
Weight: 187
40-yard time: 4.45
Since his Sophomore year, Gipson took over the bulk of the carries for the Lobos and was named to the all-Mountain West second team as a Senior in 2016. Gipson finished fourth in total rushing yardage in the Mountain West in 2016, but first in average yards per carry. In a conference with several backs that are NFL worthy, Gipson is in good company with a loaded 2017 RB draft class.
Strengths: Gipson has great ability to read his blocks and attack holes in the run game. He has a downhill style that benefits him both returning kicks and running the ball. Gipson has break away speed and play making ability when in the open space. He is able to shake defenders in the second level to create runs well over 20 yards.
Gipson is a runner who will fight for every yard and will not shy away from first contact. A solid pro comparison would be Alfred Morris in his early years as a Redskin. Gipson keeps his pad level very low which makes him difficult to bring down one on one. He is a rare combination of great power and immense speed.
Here are the numbers he put up at UNM (Via ESPN)
Teriyon Gipson Stats
Year | Attempts | Yards | Average | Long | TD | Fumble |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Year | Attempts | Yards | Average | Long | TD | Fumble |
2016 | 145 | 1269 | 8.8 | 84 | 13 | 2 |
2015 | 147 | 850 | 5.8 | 79 | 6 | 2 |
2014 | 150 | 809 | 5.4 | 57 | 8 | 2 |
2013 | 38 | 220 | 5.8 | 22 | 5 | 1 |
Weaknesses: Gipson has very minimal experience in a pro-style offense. Gipson will lack the ability to pass block as well as to be a dual threat RB like most teams desire now in the NFL. Teams are starting to blitz more and more and without the proper protection from an incoming linebacker, this could leave his quarterback wide open for a sack. Gipson will need to bulk up this offseason if he stands a chance with the much bigger players in the NFL.
Draft Projection: With the amount of talent in this RB class, Gipson will most likely be a 7th round pick or an undrafted free agent.
Here are clips of his standout game against Wyoming.