Darryl Fields
Madhill Hilgh School (OK)
6’1″ 195 pounds
Running Back
Status: Undecided
Scouts, Inc. Grade: 77
On the Trail
Also Considering: Texas Tech, Kansas State
Scouts, Inc. Evaluation
Fields is a very talented back with a great blend of size and speed. Simply overpowers and outruns his inferior competition on film. Is tall with well-layered thickness and a very strong frame. Will need to consistently be conscious of his running leverage given his height but he does a good job staying low and running with proper body-tilt. For a taller back he shows above average lateral agility and quicks eluding initial penetration, redirecting and stretching the ball outside. Most productive as a plant and go downhill runner. Shows good burst and acceleration out of his cuts when he finds a north-south seam. Quick through the hole for a bigger back; can hit the creases just as they open. Squares up quickly out of his cuts to help power through high arm-tackles. Difficult for smaller defensive backs to wrap up when he gains speed and momentum through the second level. Flashes a very strong upper-body and a good stiff arm. Shows good lower-body strength as well; difficult to knock off balance. It’s his very good extra gear and acceleration through the second level that sets him apart. This guy has a smooth track stride and legit long speed, particularly for a big-back. However, he does not always show great initial burst and explosiveness with the ball in his hands. Can build speed at times and does not show great suddenness or pick and slide zone running skills. We question whether he has the powerful lower base to carry the load, continue breaking initial contact and remain durable at the major college level as a projected downhill back; will need to focus on building up his well-defined but narrow frame. Level of competition does not look strong. That said, Fields shows he can catch the ball out of the backfield, has the size to pick up bigger blitzers and block in pass pro. Could be an every-down, high carry back at the next level with continued physical development. Definitely a guy who is falling under the radar.
