2017 NFL Draft: Tarean Folston Could Be a Reliable Draft Pick

After an injury-ridden, but noticeable career at Notre Dame, Tarean Folston is hoping he’s done enough to be picked in the 2017 NFL Draft.

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Tarean Folston never got the starting job in Notre Dame. But during his four years, he was able to contribute to the Fighting Irish in his own way. As their big back for the last two seasons, Folston did everything Notre Dame needed him to.

His 1,712 yards and 11 touchdowns throughout his career were significant factors in Notre Dame’s running game success. This last season, while being the number two back to Josh Adams, Folston contributed 334 yards on 77 carries, finishing with a 4.3 yards per carry average.

Folston’s biggest concern heading into the draft is his healthy. Folston was the leading rusher during his sophomore season. During his junior year, he was expected to lead the Irish before tearing his ACL in the opening game against Texas.

From there, Folston never got his chance to regain Notre Dame’s backfield. But coach Brian Kelly never stopped giving Folston his chance, making him the third-down back for most of the 2016 season.

Where Folston could shine in the NFL is as just that; a third-down and short yardage back. His 5’9, 215-pound frame allows him to use almost all his strength when making impact with a defensive player. Most times, Folston could use his size to get the extra yard or two while fighting through the pile.

Folston could use his speed, too. He only ran a 4.75 40-yard dash during his Pro Day, but when he gets in the open field, he’s definitely faster than that. When he has a one-on-one open field battle, he can use a quick cut or a juke move to get past the defender instead of taking him on head-to-head.

Folston will be able to have a spot on an NFL roster because he can do it all. He isn’t a starting running back in the pros, but he could be a reliable number two. In the right system, a team could see Folster as an all-around back. Defenses would guess short run, but if a team drops back to throw, Folston could be the man to catch out of the backfield and take off.

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Whether Folston gets drafted or not is still up in the air. Most likely he isn’t going to get a chance until after the draft. His injuries and short term usage will keep teams hesitant. But once he’s signed to a roster, coaches will soon recognize his worth.