James Sims
MacArthur High School (TX)
5’11″ 190 pounds
Running Back
Status: Verbal to Kansas
Scouts, Inc. Grade: 77
On the Trail
Also Considered: Arkansas, Purdue, Iowa State, North Texas, Tulsa
Scouts, Inc. Evaluation & Video
Sims is a sturdy, good looking running back in the spread offense that will flash a nice downhill presence, but is also adept at exploiting cutback lanes and working comfortably within a zone blocking scheme. He has somewhat of an upright running style and good leg drive. Is somewhat of a short-strider for a taller back, but has quick feet in the hole and shows a knack for jump cutting and making people miss in the hole. When he can hit the hole with authority, he shows very good initial burst and competitive, top-end speed. He shows good change of direction skills and plays with good vision. He makes quick decisions and often falls forward for positive yardage. He gets his knees high in traffic and has adequate leg drive. He has the ability to side step defenders to make them miss combined with the power and balance to run through tackles. He is a decisive, sharp-cutting back who has the ability to bounce plays to the outside after he has started inside. He is elusive and slippery, a slasher-type who will weave his way through traffic. He has some power and real upside to add bulk and strength to his solid frame. Possesses adequate ball skills and upside as a receiver out of the backfield. However, Sims is not overly sudden and is not going to be a guy who puts together multiple moves in the open field. Shows just a little stiffness in his hips. Can be a bit straight lined and must lower his pad level. Upright style opens his frame up to unnecessary shots. Takes small steps and doesn’t cover a lot of ground when he opens his gate. Top end speed is good, but not a cut above. Overall, Sims is a good back that could develop further strength and bulk and become an in-line presence between the tackles with some more power. He may not be a homerun threat, but he will rip off some impressive runs and some big plays.
