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2019 NFL Draft Player Profiles: Kansas State RB Alex Barnes

From now until the 2019 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to showcase as many prospects as possible and examine both their strengths and weaknesses. Most of these profiles will feature individuals that the Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to have an interest in, while a few others will be top-ranked players. If there is a player you would like us to analyze, let us know in the comments below.

#34 Alex Barnes/RB/Kansas State/6’0”, 226 Lbs

The Good

– Ideal frame and weight distribution for the position
– Physical, downhill runner that gets better as the game goes on
– Above average vision and sees cutback lanes before they develop
– Underappreciated athlete with light, soft feet and sneaky-good elusiveness
– Made major strides from junior to senior year
– Good hands for the position and can shake guys early after the catch
– Workhorse back that Kansas State leaned on with inexperienced QB play

The Bad

– Runs with a high pad level at times
– Inconsistent pass protector that appears uncertain in his sets
– Lacks home run speed and needs a bit of a runway to get going
– Not very dynamic in terms of explosiveness on film
– Struggles to create for himself when blocking breaks down

Bio

– Finished his career ranked second in yards per carry (5.