RB/FB: Brian Leonard, Rutgers [Archive] - The Buffalo Range, where the Buffalo fans roam!

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Merk

September 2nd, 2006, 4:31:22 PM

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD height=30><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD height=10></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><STYLE type=text/css>#section tr.player {background-color: #1A4B8D; border-bottom: 1px solid #ffffff;}#section tr.player td {padding: 2px; font-family: verdana, arial, sans; font-size: 20px; color: #FFFFFF; font-weight: bold;}#section tr.bio {background-color: #1A4B8D; border-bottom: 1px solid #ffffff;}#section tr.bio td {padding: 2px; font-family: verdana, arial, sans; font-size: 12px; color: #FFFFFF; font-weight: normal;}</STYLE><TABLE id=section cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR class=player vAlign=top><TD width=70 rowSpan=2>http://images.nfl.com/images/draft/2007/mugs/leonard_brian.jpg</TD><TD colSpan=2>Brian Leonard</TD></TR><TR class=bio vAlign=top><TD width="40%">Height: 6-1
Weight: 226
40 time: 4.52

</TD><TD class=bio width="60%">Position: Fullback/Running Back
College: Rutgers
Buffalo Range Rank: 21

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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Combine Results: 40 Time: 4.52 / 20: 2.60 / 10:1.54 / Bench: 28 reps 220 / Verticle: 34 1/2 / Broad Jump: 10'2" / Shuttle: 4.22 / Cone: 6.88

MODRAK ON LEONARD: “He'd be a hybrid guy for us. He can do a bunch of things for you. As a runner he’s probably a one back type of runner. You set him deep in one back and not have a fullback. As a fullback he’s more of a perimeter blocker rather than a smash mouth inside guy. He’s 226 pounds. He can catch the ball very well. He’s very bright, he can do a lot of things mentally for you. What he will give a team is when you look at him he’s a 45-man roster guy. You can dress him every Sunday because of his versatility.”

Tough, smart,versatile and athletic leader. He would define the personality of the offense. He can contribute as a single back, a lead blocker as a FB or as a reciever as an H-Back. The Bills could dust off the no-huddle, because he'd create all kinds off mismatches and enable the Bills to show different looks without having to change the personell on the field.

Official Stats (http://web1.ncaa.org/d1mfb/playerDetail.jsp?yr=2006&org=587&player=23)

Video Highlights (http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2249398&ch=396337&src=sports): #1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFrdtBcnucE), #2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPnApaME-GQ), #3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADmOmBFmx14), #4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TN0WRV7aZw)

Official Bio: (http://www.scarletknights.com/football/roster/roster-detail.asp?ID=293)

2005 - Heisman Trophy candidate ... One of the most versatile and complete backs in the nation ... Named First-Team All-America by Pro Football Weekly for second consecutive season … Ranked as the No. 4 running back in the nation by CSTV.com ... Enters senior season second in career scoring at Rutgers with 242 points (19 shy of the all-time leader) ... Also earned All-BIG EAST recognition ... Preseason member of the Doak Walker Watch List for the second straight year ... Sixth all-time at Rutgers in rushing (2,352 yards) ... Ranks fifth all-time at RU in rushing TDs (27) ... Led team in receptions (55), scoring (102 points) and all-purpose yards (1,308) ... Ranked seventh in the BIG EAST in rushing yards/game (61.7) and fourth in all-purpose yards (109.0/game) ... Ranked fourth in the BIG EAST (and T-24 nationally) in scoring (8.5/game) ... Finished second in the conference in receptions/game (4.58/game) ... Opened the season at Illinois (9/3) with 128 yards on 12 carries, including an 83-yard TD run, which tied for the fifth-longest in school history ... Also caught five passes for 65 yards vs. the Illini ... Has totaled 100 or more all-purpose yards in 22 of his last 27 games ... Rushed for 121 yards in win at Buffalo (9/17) ... Totaled 132 all-purpose yards against Cincinnati (11/26) on nine carries for 79 yards and two TDs and six catches for 53 yards ... Has caught at least one pass in all 34 career games ... Received team’s Offensive MVP Award … Completed season with 144 all-purpose yards in the Insight Bowl against Arizona State (12/27) … Finished with a career-high 98 yards on six catches and a touchdown in the air, while rushing 10 times for 46 yards and a touchdown against the Sun Devils

2004 - Started all 10 games in which he played, missing only RU's game at Syracuse (10/2) due to injury … Named First Team All-America at fullback by Pro Football Weekly ... First Team All-BIG EAST pick … Led the conference in all-purpose yards (125.0) and catches per game (6.1) … Rushed 199 times for 732 yards and seven TDs, all team highs … Finished fifth in the league in rushing (73.2 yards/game) … Caught 61 passes for 518 yards, both best in the nation among running backs … Finished the season with 1,250 all-purpose yards, gaining 100 or more all-purpose yards in all 10 games … Began the season with a 56-yard run on the first play from scrimmage vs. Michigan State (9/4) … Finished the MSU game with a season-high 150 rushing yards and 190 all-purpose yards … Had a season-high 27 carries (for 80 yards) vs. WVU (10/30) … Caught a season-high nine passes for 64 yards in win at Vanderbilt (10/9), a game in which he registered four touchdowns … Caught five or more passes in eight of 10 games … His 61 catches are the fourth-highest single-season total in RU history and the most by a running back ... Ended the season in 12th place on the Rutgers career all-purpose yards list with 2,618 through first two seasons.

2003 - Was a Freshman All-America selection and BIG EAST Freshman of the Year pick by College Football News ... Played in all 12 games, making 10 starts … Was one of the main success stories of the 2003 season … Rushed for a team-high 880 yards on 213 carries (4.1 average) and also led the team with 1,368 all-purpose yards … Was one of three RU players to finish with over 50 receptions, leading the team with 53 catches for 488 yards (9.2 average) … Led RU with 14 touchdowns and 86 points … His point total was the fifth-highest in school history, the best by a freshman and the most since 1973 … Rushing total was the highest since 1994 … Had 100 or more all-purpose yards in eight of 12 games, including the five final games of the season … Ran for 132 yards and a touchdown at Army (9/13), breaking a 61-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to seal the win … Had four touchdowns (two rushing, two receiving) vs. Pittsburgh (10/18) and three the following week (two rushing, one receiving) in win at Temple (10/25) … Had a season-high 84 receiving yards vs. Owls … Rushed 33 times for a season-best 184 yards and two touchdowns at UConn (11/8), while catching two passes for 33 yards to finish with a season-high 217 all-purpose yards … Ran for 99 yards and finished with 144 all-purpose yards vs. BC (11/15) … Named BIG EAST Offensive Player of the Week following RU's 24-7 win over Syracuse (11/29), rushing for 138 yards on 37 carries and adding 45 receiving yards … Finished sixth in the BIG EAST in rushing (73.3/game) and fifth in receiving (4.42 catches/ game) … Was sixth in all-purpose yards (114.0/game) and sixth in scoring (7.2 points/game) … Averaged 159.6 all-purpose yards over the final five games … Ranked 67th nationally in rushing yards per game (73.3) and 59th in all-purpose yards (114.0) ... Was RU’s Co-Offensive MVP.

2002 - Did not see game action in 2002.

Scholastic/Personal - Holds the all-time state scoring record in New York with 696 points … Scored 107 TDs in four years … A two-time All-State performer … As a senior, he rushed for 2,398 yards on 234 carries, and scored 47 TDs … Also added seven two-point conversions, and caught 23 passes for 529 yards … For his career, he rushed for 5,854 yards ... Had nine consecutive 200-yard rushing games as a senior ... As a linebacker, he had 64 tackles, including 41 solo stops, one sack and two interceptions … Led Gouverneur Central to a 9-1 record and the Class B Section X championship … Rushed for 354 yards and four TDs in the Wildcats' 28-22 win over Ogdensburg Free Academy in the title game … Scored eight TDs in the Wildcats' victory over Cornwall … A two-time Watertown Daily Times "Athlete of the Year" … Three-time All-Northern Conference MVP … Also a standout basketball player who was a first-team All-League selection … Prep Star All-American … Competed in the 100, 200 and long jump … Posted impressive wins in both the 100 and 200-meter dashes at the Section VII/X Track & Field Championships ... Honor Roll student ... Younger brother of former Scarlet Knight LB Nate Leonard … Born 2/3/84.

LEONARD PRESEASON HONORS
Preseason Maxwell Award Watch List (Collegiate Player of the Year)

Sporting News
Preseason No. 1 Fullback in the Nation
Preseason Second Team All-BIG EAST

Phil Steele
Preseason No. 1 Fullback in the Nation
Preseason First Team All-BIG EAST

Lindy’s
Preseason No. 7 Running Back in the Nation
Preseason Second Team All-BIG EAST
Preseason “Toughest To Bring Down” in the BIG EAST

Athlon
Preseason Second Team All-BIG EAST

Rushing GP Att. Yards TD Long
2003 12 213 880 9 61
2004 10 199 732 7 56
2005 12 173 740 11 83
Career 34 585 2352 27 83

Receiving GP No. Yards TD Long
2003 12 53 488 5 72
2004 10 61 518 2 55
2005 12 55 568 6 38
Career 34 169 1574 13 72

Merk

September 3rd, 2006, 12:52:14 AM

Game1: vs North Carolina (21-16)

Attempts:6
Yards:25
AVG:4.2
LNG:9
TD's:0

Receiving

Rec: 4
Yards: 20
TD's: 0

Merk

September 3rd, 2006, 12:53:20 AM

-Good all around player at the FB posistion
-Great Hands
-Good Runner
-Good Blocker
-Spells the RB from time to time

JLB

September 3rd, 2006, 12:54:02 AM

-Good all around player at the FB posistion
-Great Hands
-Good Runner
-Good Blocker
-Spells the RB from time to time

Merk would he be a fit with us?

Merk

September 3rd, 2006, 1:04:12 AM

Merk would he be a fit with us?

I think he would be a great fit for this offense, mainly for his great receiving skills

He really looked to be a complete player from the FB spot. I plan to keep an eye on him all year

JLB

September 3rd, 2006, 1:13:50 AM

I think he would be a great fit for this offense, mainly for his great receiving skills

He really looked to be a complete player from the FB spot. I plan to keep an eye on him all year

Thanks Merk great job for all of us really appreciate the effort.

SD Bills Fan

September 3rd, 2006, 1:27:29 AM

I am a Rutgers Alumni and just moved from NJ to Cali this year. Leonard would fit any offense. He is a great blocker as well as an offensive FB with great hands. His rushing attempts will be down this year because of the awesome Soph RB R Rice. I would love to get an OT, WR-Johnson and FB-Leonard in next years draft. I would be a very happy man.

Mouldsie

September 5th, 2006, 10:35:33 PM

I want this man on the Bills. Perfect FB for us... Liked him last year, determined last week watching the game that we need to draft him. Daimon Shelton cant catch for crap, this kid is a legitimate offensive threat with the ball.

Mouldsie

September 9th, 2006, 6:00:35 PM

Another solid all-around effort today, not much in rushing but got 8 yards a reception and blocked well. Rutgers had it won at the half.

Merk

September 10th, 2006, 11:17:25 PM

Game 2: vs Illinois (W 33-0)

Attempts:5
Yards:10
AVG:2
LNG:8
TD's:0

Receiving

Rec: 5
Yards: 42
TD's: 0

Merk

September 20th, 2006, 6:14:07 PM

Game 3: vs Ohio (W 24-7)

Attempts:4
Yards:19
AVG:4.8
LNG:8
TD's:0

Receiving

Rec: 4
Yards: 64
TD's: 0

Game note: Had a 45 yard reception on the day and was the teams leading reciever in all catagories

Merk

September 20th, 2006, 6:15:46 PM

I'd really like to see this kid in a Bills uniform next season

I really think he could add something to this offense especially on 3rd downs

Merk

September 25th, 2006, 2:48:00 PM

Game 4: vs Howard (W 56-7)

Attempts: 10
Yards:61
AVG:6.1
LNG:23
TD's:2

Receiving

Rec: 3
Yards: 26
TD's: 0

Merk

October 1st, 2006, 10:41:40 AM

Game 5: vs S.Florida (W 22-20)

Attempts: 8
Yards: 30
AVG: 3.8
LNG: 9
TD's: 0

Receiving

Rec: 3
Yards: 16
TD's: 0

Merk

October 17th, 2006, 4:44:38 PM

Game 6: vs Navy (W 34-0)

Attempts: 4
Yards: 18
AVG: 4.5
LNG: 9
TD's: 0

Receiving

Rec: 2
Yards: 18
TD's: 0

Callaway

November 9th, 2006, 12:40:39 AM

This kid is the definition of a football player. I get to see him live tomorrow night.

Merk

November 9th, 2006, 9:43:59 AM

This kid is the definition of a football player. I get to see him live tomorrow night.

Lucky You

I'll be pulling for a Rutgers upset

Mouldsie

November 9th, 2006, 12:52:15 PM

I want Louisville to win so they can have a shot at the title.

BanditsRock11

November 9th, 2006, 6:05:39 PM

I'll be keeping an eye on this guy tonight for sure. GO RU!!

Mouldsie

November 9th, 2006, 11:53:29 PM

emo, still think he cant block?

big time players make big time plays in big time games!

Callaway

November 10th, 2006, 6:42:32 PM

I want this kid in a Bills uniform! I dont care how they do it or what posistion they put him at. Hes a good football player period, and the Bills need as many of those as they can get

matthew94

November 11th, 2006, 3:03:59 PM

Yeah, I've wanted this guy most of the season. He's a great leader with a great attitude and does everything well. He's the kind of person and player you want on your team.

Billsnutt

December 4th, 2006, 11:29:12 AM

you are rite he is a great leader and i would love to see him with the bills he is the type of player we need

admarc

January 10th, 2007, 2:57:03 PM

from realfootbal365 :

http://www.billsinsider.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=11382

At 6-2, 235 pounds, the 22-year-old Leonard is raring to enter the NFL. He was a member of Rutgers' ever-improving team for four seasons, where he emerged as the hands-down choice as the nation's top fullback.

In his first three seasons as a member of the Scarlet Knights, the versatile Leonard, who once ran a 4.47 40-yard dash, was the team's focal point on offense. He racked up at least 732 ground yards in those three years, also adding seasons of 53, 55 and 61 receptions. His 40 total touchdowns (29 rushing, 11 receiving) between 2003-2005 from the fullback position serve as eyebrow-raising numbers, too.

Because of the emergence of running back Ray Rice, Leonard's production this past season went down, but there's still a lot that has to be said for the stats he managed to put up. The Gouverneur, N.Y., native averaged a career-high 4.5 yards per carry and added 38 receptions. Not bad for a guy who's both a superb blocker and team player.

Leonard, who earned the nickname "Beast" during his tenure at Rutgers, has drawn praise from enemy defenders, too.

"That combination of power and speed is amazing," now-former Pittsburgh Panthers linebacker H.B. Blades once said.

"Some of the runs he makes in the open field, he can cut like a tailback. He jumps over safeties when they try and cut him, but then he runs over linebackers and defensive linemen. His combination of power and speed just makes him the best at what he does," Blades continued.

Having both power and speed from a position some are saying is going extinct may be just what the doctor ordered for the weapon-hungry Bills. Even if it means having to utilize a second- or third-round pick in April's draft on him, Brian Leonard should undoubtedly be high on Buffalo's list.

He's that good. Daimon Shelton, on the other hand, not so much.

Carl J. Ironsides

January 10th, 2007, 3:06:51 PM

from realfootbal365 :

http://www.billsinsider.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=11382

I'm even more convinced. Sign me up for Mr. Leonard.

Mouldsie

January 10th, 2007, 3:20:08 PM

I wonder if Conor Byrne knew who Leonard was until this year.

hello

January 10th, 2007, 5:18:03 PM

I would pick him in the 3rd round

twosheds

January 10th, 2007, 6:14:00 PM

I think he'll only drop to the 3rd round if he has a bad combine. With a good combine (4.4x on the 40 yard dash) he'll go late first, early second, depending on how much junior talent still declares for the draft.

FinNasty

January 11th, 2007, 4:16:29 AM

Damn... you guys are really high on this guy, huh?

I have heard some on here compare him to Alstott. Quick question... why would you want an Alstott? Alstott was a great short yardage back... but was most effective when coupled with Dunn, because they complimented each other so well. You guys dont need a short yardage back... because you have an everydown back in Willis. Alstott also wasnt that great of a run blocker... so if Leonard is like Alstott in that respect... I really dont see why you would be so high on him.

I just think a 2nd round pick is way too high for a FB. I cant see him making THAT big of an impact to warrent such a selection...

B-loCrew

January 11th, 2007, 4:22:39 AM

I agree with you nasty that a 2nd may be a bit high, but this guy is a much greater offensive threat than an Alstott, he is like another RB back there that can block like a FB. I would love to see him as a Bill bc he seems to play like a Bill. We do have plenty of other needs, if he falls to the third then he would be a steal for us.

Callaway

January 11th, 2007, 8:04:34 AM

Mouldsie

January 11th, 2007, 9:54:52 AM

Hes really nothing like Alstott

Word
http://www.buffalorange.com/showpost.php?p=1417556&postcount=19
http://www.buffalorange.com/showpost.php?p=1512952&postcount=40

Another comparison could be Chris Cooley

bcw

January 11th, 2007, 7:11:44 PM

If he came to Buffalo he might be the new fan favorite at the Ralph. A 2nd seems like a lot but if we address our other holes in FA I'm all for him.

FamousAmos

January 11th, 2007, 9:33:07 PM

never heard of this guy until today and from what I've read I'm sold as well. Lets get him in the 2nd/3rd round. We need a guy who can punch it in on short yardage to goal situations. Willis isn't a guy who can score on those goal line situations. lets get him!

bcw

January 12th, 2007, 9:06:29 PM

One of my positions that need to be addressed this offseason is FB. He's the best out there and his versitility is invaluable. A lot depends on how FA goes but sign me up for drafting him on the 1st day.

TheAnswer74

January 13th, 2007, 10:41:57 AM

I want Brian Leonard leap in Buffalo.

Heres another one Merk...

This makes 4 Leonard leaps.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TN0WRV7aZw&mode=related&search=

admarc

January 13th, 2007, 12:36:56 PM

I want Brian Leonard leap in Buffalo.

Heres another one Merk...

This makes 4 Leonard leaps.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TN0WRV7aZw&mode=related&search=

Thanks Answer, #4 has been added.

If anyone else finds a video, picture or story for any prospect, please add it to his thread and we'll link it to the profile.

jaymitch84

February 15th, 2007, 11:54:00 AM

FknGvna

February 15th, 2007, 12:31:06 PM

He wants the money but he'll wind up being the next Greg Jones, Lorenzo Neal. HB to FB that is.

Mouldsie

February 15th, 2007, 1:00:01 PM

He's probably better than McGahee

Callaway

February 15th, 2007, 1:06:19 PM

Hes a team guy he'll do what the team ask him

JLB

February 15th, 2007, 1:12:56 PM

He's probably better than McGahee

In your opinion is it possible that we could get him in the 2nd round?

emo

February 15th, 2007, 1:37:19 PM

I retract all statements (mainly, mock draft previously in my sig) made by me saying I want the Bills to draft Leonard from Rutgers.

This is because of the Sportscenter report that he wants to switch back to tailback in the NFL.

Good luck with that, dude.

uh yeah, he came into the senior bowl 14 pounds lighter for a reason

if the bills took hi in the second I'd cry

JLB

February 15th, 2007, 1:43:36 PM

uh yeah, he came into the senior bowl 14 pounds lighter for a reason

if the bills took hi in the second I'd cry

Could he be had in the 3rd in your opinion?

SabreNasty2630

February 15th, 2007, 1:44:32 PM

I retract all statements (mainly, mock draft previously in my sig) made by me saying I want the Bills to draft Leonard from Rutgers.

This is because of the Sportscenter report that he wants to switch back to tailback in the NFL.
Good luck with that, dude.

yeah that aint happening

treydawg

February 15th, 2007, 1:51:08 PM

uh yeah, he came into the senior bowl 14 pounds lighter for a reason

if the bills took hi in the second I'd cry

apparently we're the only ones with brains here. screw brian leonard. he's not a good tailback.

Merk

February 15th, 2007, 2:54:33 PM

merge

emo

February 15th, 2007, 4:36:36 PM

apparently we're the only ones with brains here. screw brian leonard. he's not a good tailback.

My thinking with leonard is this. You are willing to sacrifice a lead blocker so your fullback can be a receiver? he running game needs all the help it can get and a punishing lead blocker like leron mcclain would be a nice fit, especially considering that he has pretty good hands for a fullback. Look at what lorenzo neal has done for eddie george and lt2.

let me add, how much better is leonard than some of the backs that might come out next year? than lynch, pittman, irons, bush, henry, jackson and the kid from fresno state

Carl J. Ironsides

February 15th, 2007, 4:45:53 PM

Leonard should stay with what he does best: fullback. Now that he wants to be a TB, he's off my list.

emo

February 15th, 2007, 6:53:48 PM

Could he be had in the 3rd in your opinion?

I think some team is going to fall in love with his non fb abilities and he's going to go in the second half of the second round I'd say anywhere from 45 on.

and that team will need to figure out how best to use his strengths.

for me, liek I've said le'ron mcclain is my guy if you're going to draft a fullback

Buffalo13

February 16th, 2007, 10:54:23 AM

He would be nice in a two back system. He could do GREAT for the Colts if they lose Rhodes to FA. Manning would find that guy all over the field. I think more and more about the two back system every day....I wonder if Marv and the boys would consider it.

1968_bills_fan

February 19th, 2007, 7:24:29 PM

Callaway

February 19th, 2007, 10:12:19 PM

Hey guys, Rutgers overachieved this year. The Big East is basketball, not football. Do you think you would even know his name if he was at Mississippi State rather than 30 miles from Manhattan? 3rd round- probably not with our needs (clearly stated by management0 at MLB, OG and CB. Maybe a 4th round pick.

You act if hes just some random player that popped onto the scene. Hes been a good player for the last 4 years and was on Kipers top 25 preseason ranking. If you've watched college football the past 4 years you know who B.Leonard is.

Guys, most of the time a FB blocks pass rushers or is a lead blocker. Many pro teams line up a OG, TE or LB as a FB on frequent ocasions. We can fill 80% of this requirement with something like a super-athlete former monster LB from Indiana Highlands Teacher's College. Get real. (go Pirates!)

You dont draft Leonard with the idea of using him in a traditional FB sense because he is not a traditional FB. Start thinking outside the box. You draft him because of the dimention he can add to your offense with his all around game

jaymitch84

February 20th, 2007, 7:57:42 AM

Hey guys, Rutgers overachieved this year. The Big East is basketball, not football.

Umm, 2 teams in the top 10 in the final rankings...3 in the top 12. 5-0 in bowl games. I don't think the Big East is just a basketball conference.

Rutgers was for real.

treydawg

February 20th, 2007, 8:06:50 AM

Look at the teams the Big East beat in bowl games. That conference stinks.

emo

February 20th, 2007, 12:48:18 PM

leonard is a tough call for me. Lke most have said I love his hands from the fullback spot but he isn't a good lead blocker, and he wants carries. what does he do for the bills in short yardage situations?

My thinkin as to why i'd pass on leonard is rather simple. next year there are going to be a group of exceptional running backs that could all coem out. I'd liek to see teh groundwork laid for the bills to grab a felix jones, or load up and take a run at mcfadden, and have him come into the buills offense with a solid running line, and a devastating lead blocker and be productive to take some of the load off losman, evans and company.

you cannot underestimate the importance of guys like lorenzo neal, william henderson, and jeremi johnson.

Mouldsie

February 20th, 2007, 12:55:43 PM

Lorenzo Neal was a converted HB

emo

February 20th, 2007, 1:10:13 PM

Lorenzo Neal was a converted HB

when was he converted?

his rookie year he had 21 carries, in two games. then the next year he had 30 in 16 games and 7 starts. and at the nfl draft site they ghad him in 1993 listed as a fullback. I dont' know if that changed due to his position changhe or what.

he was a fullback all through high school, but had 2406 yards rushing at fresno state.

I dont' know what kind of offense fresno state ran in the early 90's I'm guessing you dont' either so we still have no idea when he was converted. but from his bio it seems like fb was his position for some time.

if you add say 30 pounds to leronard's frame what does that do to his athleticism?

he has hback written all over him.

I think I might be a too in the box thinker because I want my fb to be a great lead blocker first. not a great pass catcher. This line needs all the help it can get.

BLADE33

February 21st, 2007, 1:01:09 AM

Daimon Shelton has great hands, he's made a lot of receptions on third down, what have you been watching? I've never seen him drop a pass since he hit Buffalo, he just can't run.

Mouldsie

February 21st, 2007, 1:10:46 AM

when was he converted?

his rookie year he had 21 carries, in two games. then the next year he had 30 in 16 games and 7 starts. and at the nfl draft site they ghad him in 1993 listed as a fullback. I dont' know if that changed due to his position changhe or what.

he was a fullback all through high school, but had 2406 yards rushing at fresno state.

I dont' know what kind of offense fresno state ran in the early 90's I'm guessing you dont' either so we still have no idea when he was converted. but from his bio it seems like fb was his position for some time.

if you add say 30 pounds to leronard's frame what does that do to his athleticism?

he has hback written all over him.

I think I might be a too in the box thinker because I want my fb to be a great lead blocker first. not a great pass catcher. This line needs all the help it can get.

He busted up his leg rookie year and made the switch in subsequent years after losing a step and bulking up too during rehab.

Sounds kinda like McGahee, only Neal was tougher, less egotistical, and had fewer medical knowledge and technology at his disposal.

Although I believe the injuries were diff, Neal didnt blow out his knee.

Mouldsie

February 21st, 2007, 1:18:37 AM

Neal also played football at Fresno State, of course. Despite his great NFL success in the blocking role Neal was not always supposed to be a blocker. In college he was a great running back at Fresno State, setting the school record with 2405 rushing yards over his career there. He also graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice. Because of his great success as a runner Neal was projected to be a successful runner in the NFL as well. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 4th round in the 1993 NFL draft as a running back. Two games into his career he looked like a great pick as in his first game he had gained 89 yards on 13 carries and in the second game he broke off a 74 yard touchdown run with his first carry.

Neal may have become a great running back, but later in the game Neal suffered an injury that would dramatically change the course of his career. He broke his ankle in the third quarter of that 2nd game of his career while taking his thrid carry of the game. He was out for the rest of the year. His final stats for that year were impressive for limited time, 175 yards in 21 carries and an extremely impressive 8.3 yards per carry.

But the injury had made Neal a forgotten man for the Saints and also taken away much of his speed. He had a big frame though and was made a fullback the next year. The Saints drafted running back Mario Bates next year to take the place as the Saints feature back for the 1994 season. Neal did not originally take kindly to the move. He had gotten the ball ever since he had started playing football. Unfortunately, he took out his anger against Bates. When they were at a bar Neal insisted that Bates should provide him with money to buy a drink as a rookie. Bates refused and Neal proceeded to punch him in the face, breaking his jaw and sidelining him for four weeks. Big mistake.

Perhaps this incident made Neal all the more determined to get over his stuggles and unhappiness and just do the job he was presented with. He played in all 16 games for the Saints in '94 as a blocking fullback. This would be his permanent position for the rest of his career. With the Saints he continued to develop and learn this position. He had been humbled somewhat by his incident with Bates, and, most importantly, was never complained about again in the future as a clubhouse distraction.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorenzo_Neal

He wasn't a great blocker either until later in his career.
I do think you underrate Leonard's blocking ability however.

emo

February 21st, 2007, 7:46:11 AM

two things.

1. the saints drafted 4 running backs in 3 years, dunbar in the first the year before, then neal, then derek brown the round after they drafted neal. That's just weird.

2. He isn't a devastating lead blocker. He's a decent blocker. I'd like a little more out of my fullback than decent.

treydawg

February 21st, 2007, 8:03:12 AM

Buffalo13

February 27th, 2007, 2:20:39 PM

How would you feel about drafting Leonard and signing another RB in FA? Lots of people seem to really like Leonard and he showed some nice speed for a big back at the combine. He certainly has the versitility that Marv and co. said they were looking for.

What about Leonard and Ahman Green?

Mouldsie

February 27th, 2007, 6:24:55 PM

100% down with Leonard as a TB especially with another guy to share the load with him.

Leonard and Green sounds like a solid combo if you can get BL in the 3rd. 2nd might be too much.

rob on the job

February 27th, 2007, 6:33:52 PM

Run and stop the run.

That's Marv's mantra ... and a pretty good one, I think.

The problem is, the Bills need to get blockers AND a run-stuffer on D.

f8ta1ity54

February 27th, 2007, 9:48:40 PM

Leonard and Green sounds like a solid combo if you can get BL in the 3rd. 2nd might be too much.

i think leonard will go earlier then most ppl expect because he is a rare talent for his position..even though it is a dying position in the NFL.

Mouldsie

February 27th, 2007, 9:52:09 PM

Rb?

admarc

March 8th, 2007, 4:01:55 PM

Now that the Bills have invested in BIG o-lineman, Willis is gone and Jauron said the Bills want to go with a 2 back system, I believe B. Leonard is a perfect fit in Buffalo. He is the anti-Willis. He has great hands, hits the hole hard, can catch out of the backfield, can pick up a blitz and is a willing blocker down field. He is unselfish, intelligent and a team leader. I am still not 100% convinced he can be a feature back in the NFL but I think he is the 3rd best HB prospect in this draft and would be ideal in a 2 back system. I think the Bills should pick up a vet free agent HB and use Leonard creatively this year. They will have a year to decide if he can be a feature I back. If they decide he does not have the break away speed and inside power to cut it as a feature franchise back, he will still have incredible value as a 3rd down h/back/fb and they can find a compliment in next year's deep RB class.

admarc

March 9th, 2007, 1:18:31 AM

http://myspace-987.vo.llnwd.net/00354/78/98/354958987_l.jpg

Might

March 9th, 2007, 1:38:43 PM

Okay... this link is a highlite reel of Ray Rice and Brian Leonard, put together by some geek at Rutgers no doubt.

Anyway... please watch this. Is anyone else blown away by the leaping ability of Brian Leonard. There are about 3 instances in this video where Leonard HURDLES over a would-be tackler. I'm not talking about hurdling over a guy who's diving for his legs to make a tackle... I'm talking about hurdling OVER a guy coming at him staright on.

This is ridiculous. The first time I saw it I figured it had to be Ray Rice. But it's not. It's Leonard, and he does it on a few different occasions in this clip.

He's my new infatuation in the draft. I want him. I'd put him ahead of any of the other 2nd round RBs (as GBN did), especially knowing that he is the consumate team guy... he didn't balk at all when he lost his starting job to Ray Rice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UmZmliWhtM

Might

March 9th, 2007, 1:39:42 PM

Oh, and if the hurdling isn't enough... he also lays into tacklers and knocks them back about 8 yards.

BillsCAfan

March 9th, 2007, 2:07:28 PM

He was a force in college and I like him a lot.

My only concern with Leonard is his tweener status.......he's not a true FB, but he can block, and he's not your prototypical RB.

If we are going to a 2 back system, he would be a great compliment to a faster RB who has some elusive cutting ability.....like a Ray Rice.

One thing is for sure, Leonard can create some advantages mismatches.

admarc

March 9th, 2007, 2:14:03 PM

The Leonard Leap:

http://myspace-987.vo.llnwd.net/00354/78/98/354958987_l.jpg

admarc

March 9th, 2007, 2:14:52 PM

http://media.lawrence.com/img/photos/2005/11/12/scoreboard_bw_sports_t600.jpg

Mainejays

March 9th, 2007, 2:17:11 PM

I'd love this guy (not a gay kind of love mind you) in a two back system. I'd have no problem with two rookie backs. Just want players who WANT to be here.

Mainejays

March 9th, 2007, 2:18:24 PM

http://media.lawrence.com/img/photos/2005/11/12/scoreboard_bw_sports_t600.jpg

And they say white men can't jump.

:n4clapping:

admarc

March 9th, 2007, 2:22:43 PM

I'd love this guy (not a gay kind of love mind you) in a two back system. I'd have no problem with two rookie backs. Just want players who WANT to be here. +1

I am also starting to think the Bills would be better off using two picks in the draft for their 2 back system. Let them come up together.

I was watching the Senior Bowl again last night and fantasizing (not in a gay kind of way mind you :D) about Hunt and Leonard in the same backfield. They looked real good together at the Senior Bowl.

Might

March 9th, 2007, 3:15:48 PM

Yeah... I have no interest in Leonard as out feature back.

I want him to be a role player in our offense. Get him carries near the goalline, have him go out for passes, and give him 8-10 carries a game.

Re-sign Anthony Thomas, draft Brian Leonard in the 2nd, and draft Garrett Wolfe (yes, Garret Wolfe) in the 4th round.

I'd be ecstatic with that trio. I know Wolfe is small, but he has GREAT vision, and could prove to be a real steal.

rnmac

March 9th, 2007, 3:25:27 PM

The only problem with drafting two running backs is we have needs on the defensive side of the ball also. Go with the best pick, resign A-train, and go with it.

bcw

March 9th, 2007, 3:30:28 PM

He would get creamed if he tried to jump over an NFL LB like that. Sure it looks great but he's asking to get hurt if he does that in the NFL.

treydawg

March 9th, 2007, 6:09:23 PM

He would get creamed if he tried to jump over an NFL LB like that. Sure it looks great but he's asking to get hurt if he does that in the NFL.

I was going to post the same thing.

Merk

March 9th, 2007, 6:17:35 PM

He would get creamed if he tried to jump over an NFL LB like that. Sure it looks great but he's asking to get hurt if he does that in the NFL.

I dont think he would try it on a LB but there are some pretty shitty tackling CB's I imagine he would use it against. Some of them no matter the situation just go straight for the knees

I like the idea of Leonard in a 2 back system b/c you can use him in so many different situations. I imagine the Bills have there eye on him

Mouldsie

March 9th, 2007, 6:20:37 PM

lelelelelelelelelelelelelelelelel

I think I'm about a year ahead of you guys on this.

emo

March 9th, 2007, 8:08:59 PM

there is just something I dont' like about him, it could be that I'm jsut being contrary, but I just dont' get a we need this guy type feeling, though he does have some reallly interesting traits. He seems like he has some incredible skills. hell sure I'm on board

JerseyBillsFan

March 9th, 2007, 10:14:34 PM

Look at the teams the Big East beat in bowl games. That conference stinks.They beat who they were scheduled against. No their fault they wer undeschedsuled by the idiot matchup makers. Penn Stinks.

treydawg

March 9th, 2007, 10:41:49 PM

hell sure I'm on board

:rofl:

ROOK33

March 9th, 2007, 11:13:17 PM

Wish I had that same leap to get over that ugly stripper to get to the Hottie!!!
Dam wallett!!!! It kept opening up!!!

Sorry Beers are a kickin!!

TheAnswer74

March 31st, 2007, 5:44:46 PM

admarc

April 3rd, 2007, 8:09:10 PM

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" bgColor=#e4e7ee border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left> Leonard The Epitome Of Team Player (http://www.billsinsider.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=11708)</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right width=8 height=16>http://www.billsinsider.com/themes/bills/images/storybox-title-right2.gif</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>http://www.billsinsider.com/themes/bills/images/pixel.gif</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=5 width="100%" bgColor=#eeeeee border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>Tuesday, April 03, 2007 - 08:07 PM
http://www.billsinsider.com/images/topics/buf.gif (http://www.billsinsider.com/index.php?name=News&catid=&topic=3) http://assets.buffalobills.com/uploads/news/9F0CC5530D844F6396218BE87D3AB715.jpgBuffaloBills.c om (http://www.buffalobills.com/news/news.jsp?news_id=4693) In an era where college players are keen to improving their draft stock, particularly in their senior season, Rutgers fullback " Brian Leonard (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=95545) is an exception to the rule. After three straight 1,250 all-purpose yard seasons for the Scarlet Knights Leonard would be facing a position change and a reduced workload as a senior.

Talented tailback Ray Rice was a player head coach Greg Schiano wanted on the field more, so Leonard was moved to fullback and would not have the carries he received the previous three seasons. After weighing things Leonard chose to return for his senior season and credited his backfield mate for helping to make his position change an easy one.

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

cbbills11

April 3rd, 2007, 8:46:18 PM

I think leonard fits in well with what buffalo is looking for. I wouldnt be surprised if we grabbed him on the first day (3rd), and grabbed another back in the fourth. we do need a fullback as well. It would be interesting to see him as a versitile fullback/running back in certain situations along with a second day speedy back to top off the rb by commitee approach.

superman

April 3rd, 2007, 9:04:50 PM

I dont want to make this a racial thing but can someone help me here, has there been any successfull white RB's in todays NFL (aside from Alstott)?

odieman

April 3rd, 2007, 9:26:44 PM

I dont want to make this a racial thing but can someone help me here, has there been any successfull white RB's in todays NFL (aside from Alstott)?

Off the top of my head I don't recall any. But then again, I don't remember any rated high and then going bust either. There's a reason this guy is rated where he is. If we're going with a two back format as Jauron says, I'd love to get Leonard in the third round. He could split carries with A-Train this year, then maybe move to a more traditional FB role if we draft a high profile RB in next year's loaded class.

Merk

April 3rd, 2007, 9:36:06 PM

This is why I'm not worried about him adding weight and switching to FB if thats what the Bills want him to do.

I think he wants to be a RB but once hes on a team I think he will do whatever they need him to do

JoeMama

April 3rd, 2007, 9:44:25 PM

Leonard is sick.

He has this patented hurdle move that I love.

The "Leonard Leap."

It's the first highlight in this clip - which also contains some Rice footage.

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0UmZmliWhtM"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0UmZmliWhtM" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

Here's another leap move.

<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5TN0WRV7aZw"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5TN0WRV7aZw" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>

I also like that he seems to have enough speed in second gear to break it long.

Dude is a freakish athlete.

I would love to pick him up in the second round.

Ghost_Dog1

April 3rd, 2007, 9:44:30 PM

I like what Leonard could bring as the third down back. His stock is so up there right now though. Seems Him or Pittman will be the third back gone.

mighty peace warrior

April 3rd, 2007, 9:53:21 PM

i hope he doesn't try the hurdling shit in the NFL...

gilchristfan

April 3rd, 2007, 10:15:28 PM

He's kind of like Marcus Allen, without the skill set.

f8ta1ity54

April 3rd, 2007, 11:39:52 PM

even if the bills are interested in leonard, i dunno if we can get him...i think a lot of teams want him but arent saying it. he will probably go higher than what we think. IMO.

JerseyBillsFan

April 4th, 2007, 12:10:13 AM

Boy just watching those clips brings back memories and puts a smile on my face.

admarc

April 4th, 2007, 1:54:10 AM

Boy just watching those clips brings back memories and puts a smile on my face.

Make sure to check out his profile thread:

http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=95545

and his Yahoo Video (http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2249398&ch=396337&src=sports):

1968_bills_fan

April 4th, 2007, 6:13:23 AM

and he catches the ball.

Might

April 4th, 2007, 9:33:05 AM

I'd take him in the 2nd, assuming we don't go RB in the 1st.

I want this team to consist of players who will do whatever is asked of them. And you know Leonard will do just that. I love his attitude.

He's a great weapon as a receiver in the flat, he can pass block, and he's a good RB (especially in short yardage) worthy of about 10 carries a game. Plus, you know he will be willing to play FB when asked and will learn what he needs to learn to run block.

I have a feeling he will go much higher than expected. Maybe as early as the late 1st round (The Colts underneath passing game has become "plan B" for their offense... and they just lost Rhodes... I'm just saying...).

A player with his versatility + character + work ethic + physical skills will be appealing to alot of teams. I don't see him making it to our 3rd pick.

ATrain + Leonard + Garret Wolfe in 2007... with Steve Slaton/Darren McFadden/Felix Jones/Ray Rice replacing ATrain in 2008. That's a backfield I'd love.

superman

April 4th, 2007, 9:24:41 PM

i hope he doesn't try the hurdling shit in the NFL...

Im sure thats the first thing they will tell him when he gets to training camp. You dont see RB's get away with that in the NFL, they usually go down real hard.

C Darwin

April 6th, 2007, 6:23:04 PM

At this year's Combine was Brian Leonard, a running back from Rutgers who is trying to make it to the NFL. He ran an excellent 4.49 40 yard dash, had more reps than any other running back in the weightlifting, was third in the 60 yard cone drill, and above average in the vertical leap. Those are elite numbers, the kind of numbers that would rocket most running backs to the top of the mock draft boards. Will it do the same for Brian Leonard?

When some “experts” were discussing 40 yard dash times they mentioned that Leonard had run a 4.5 sec. 40-yard dash (rounding his time UP one-tenth of a second) but when discussing the 40-yard dash time of Marshawn Lynch they described him as running a 4.4 sec 40. But his actual time was the same as Brian Leonard's, 4.49, so they rounded DOWN nine-tenths of a second to create the impression that Lynch is the faster player.

Leonard is being pushed to be a fullback. So far Leonard is resisting the move but he faces an incredible uphill battle against an army of media, coaches, and fans that will see him and think: non-athlete. It’s a ridiculously false impression as the recent Combine has shown. But hopefully, as the Combine becomes more popular and the results more closely followed, someday the truth will leak out.

treydawg

April 6th, 2007, 6:28:34 PM

He's a full back, not a running back. He won't be a good NFL RB.

JP Losmania7

April 6th, 2007, 6:30:32 PM

i would love to get leonard...if we need he could be in as a FB for some plays and we can also use him as a RB

Kuharski

April 6th, 2007, 6:46:12 PM

He would be a good addition to our team. He can run, catch, and block. He is also drug free and has no criminal record. I hope the Bills are lucky to grab him with a 2nd. He is a definite improvement upon (Magayhee) in the block and catch category.

coastal

April 6th, 2007, 7:03:44 PM

never heard of him.

eee1776

April 6th, 2007, 7:17:40 PM

Hi character guy. I hear New england is interested in drafting him. I watched him play a few times last year and was very impressed.

JimKelly12203

April 6th, 2007, 7:23:48 PM

I think he looks great!

I would get him and turner if his blocking looks like it would hold up at this level. It's always great to have a tripple threat at full back.

C Darwin

April 6th, 2007, 7:30:55 PM

He's a full back, not a running back. He won't be a good NFL RB.
Why?

treydawg

April 6th, 2007, 7:56:56 PM

Because he was average.

2004 199 732 3.7 56 7 61 518 8.5 55 2 0 0
2005 173 740 4.3 83 11 55 568 10.3 38 6 0 0

He'd make a great fullback.

ricogarion

April 6th, 2007, 8:07:21 PM

Coastal am I seeing some so called experts saying now that Posluszny will be there in the second round?

TallskiWallski83

April 6th, 2007, 8:34:28 PM

He's a full back, not a running back. He won't be a good NFL RB.

You are going to eat those words. Leonard is a baller. Period.

C Darwin

April 6th, 2007, 9:13:46 PM

Because he was average.

I guess it’s too bad Brian Leonard couldn’t block for himself. And I’m not so sure 4.3 y/c is all that average. It might actually be pretty good. I wonder what the advantage is for Brian to run in a single back formation, rather than an “I”?

jaymitch84

April 6th, 2007, 9:25:25 PM

War Room?

jaymitch84

April 6th, 2007, 9:25:56 PM

never heard of him.

hahaha

Buffalo13

April 6th, 2007, 9:29:10 PM

Leonard is not a fullback. He is hardly big enough and lead blocking is not his strong suit. He is good all around back who, in the right offense, could be an all star. He is the best recieving back in the draft, hands down. If you watch his highlight reel, you'll see how athletic he really is.

If this guy ends up on a team with an OC who knows what he's doing, he'll tear it up. Draws, screens, swing passes, pass protecting....he can do it all.

admarc

April 6th, 2007, 9:41:14 PM

War Room?

War Room Directory (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=108853)

We have over 100 player threads including Brian Leonard (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=95545) in the war room. Each thread has comments, links to video, stats, official bios, etc.

Our Draft Tracker (http://www.buffalorange.com/vbarticles.php?do=article&articleid=1<br />) has links to each player thread, our rankings and our live mock draft (http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=110147), which is in progress.

FknGvna

April 6th, 2007, 9:47:17 PM

damn, 4 linx..

FknGvna

April 6th, 2007, 9:49:50 PM

Taking it to the War Room, I've been thinking about Leonard the past couple of days. What if he comes out to be like the next Alstott.

FknGvna

April 6th, 2007, 9:51:33 PM

ROOK33

April 6th, 2007, 11:30:48 PM

I compare him to Mike Alstott! And I would take a FB like that anyday!! No brainer!! Great option in the red zone as well as short yardage.

Dustybottoms

April 7th, 2007, 12:56:36 AM

Dustybottoms

April 7th, 2007, 12:58:45 AM

I compare him to Mike Alstott! And I would take a FB like that anyday!! No brainer!! Great option in the red zone as well as short yardage.

Maybie a power FB.Maybie but I still think that might be a strech.

FunkMasterFix

April 7th, 2007, 1:05:35 AM

Sorry to be so direct but would we be talking about him at all if he was black?NO!!! His 40 time is pretty good but he is no where near as athletic as Marshawn or Bush or anyone else.He is a strong guy with heart and a good work ethic but he is no NFL player.Be honest you like him because he is white.

no thank you. don't assume your prejudices apply universally.

Dustybottoms

April 7th, 2007, 1:09:20 AM

no thank you. don't assume your prejudices apply universally.

Just call them as i see them.and IMO honesty is about as far from prejudice as one can get.

Mouldsie

April 7th, 2007, 1:50:07 AM

actually I think the reason underestimate him is b/c hes white.

Mouldsie

April 7th, 2007, 1:50:26 AM

anyway, what about him? theres only like 50 threads on the guy :D

B-loCrew

April 7th, 2007, 2:24:34 AM

I compare him to Mike Alstott! And I would take a FB like that anyday!! No brainer!! Great option in the red zone as well as short yardage.

I would compare him to Sammy Morris, does everything good but is not a spectacular player in the nfl. He is a tweener, not quite a FB and not quite a RB. He will be a good player to have on your team and will contribute in many areas but will not blow you away in one single area in the NFL. I would not compare him to Mike Alstott, he is more versatile than Alstott but not as much of a mauler.

Mouldsie

April 7th, 2007, 2:26:55 AM

I love Sammy Morris, thats a solid comparison of the style of player he is... though I'd say hes a better version

B-loCrew

April 7th, 2007, 2:47:32 AM

In certain ways BL is better, he is a bigger offensive threat I think but may not be as good in FB blocking. SM was a very good all round player as I thin Leonard will be . Sammy was also a very good special teams player, not sure how leonard will be on ST but they seem like similar players, hard working and solid in all facets of the game but no WOW factor.

sobenny

April 7th, 2007, 3:39:48 AM

Because he was average.

2004 199 732 3.7 56 7 61 518 8.5 55 2 0 0
2005 173 740 4.3 83 11 55 568 10.3 38 6 0 0

He'd make a great fullback.

He would not make a great fullback. He'd probably be no better than average. His lead blocking, while adequate, is not impressive.

He's a very good receiver, runs with good power and decent speed, but he's not very agile and not quick to the edge when he runs outside. His lead blocking is often on target, but he doesn't seem to blow anyone out of the way. Oddly enough, his lack of agility is shown through one of his more athletic qualities - he tends to jump over tacklers instead of trying to dodge them.

I think he'd be best as a second RB. Leonard is probably too limited as a runner to be an every-down RB, but he can definitely contribute well as a short yardage and third down back, or just to give the starter a rest.

HURLS

April 7th, 2007, 3:41:00 AM

i thought Brian Leonard was our own BLeonard. :hmm:

1968_bills_fan

April 7th, 2007, 5:31:42 AM

Sammy Avalon

April 7th, 2007, 6:12:41 AM

You are going to eat those words. Leonard is a baller. Period.

No he's not. Because he's a white boy. White boys can't run the Ball it's genetically impossible no matter how fast they are. ;)

admarc

April 7th, 2007, 7:34:06 AM

No he's not. Because he's a white boy. White boys can't run the Ball it's genetically impossible no matter how fast they are. ;) and white men can't jump either:

http://media.lawrence.com/img/photos/2005/11/12/scoreboard_bw_sports_t600.jpg

Ghost_Dog1

April 7th, 2007, 8:36:10 AM

I Think at the Nfl Level Leonard can be a Centers/Harmon type pass catching back. I think He can be an effective 3rd and short runner. He Can do the Payton dive over the top. In The end I think he is a guy who can convert a lot of 3rd downs. And that Has Value.

C Darwin

April 7th, 2007, 9:51:39 AM

To Dusty Bottoms on your Statement
Just call them as i see them.and IMO honesty is about as far from prejudice as one can get.

Yes in the Orwellian world we live in, you certainly are playing it safe.

No he's not. Because he's a white boy. White boys can't run the Ball it's genetically impossible no matter how fast they are. ;)

I think the posters with half of a brain can see the prejudices that this young man has to overcome: The racists that think European-Americans are un-athletic, the brainwashed that caste him in to something other than a feature running back for an offence, and the media who refuses to accurately report his 40 time (4.49 sec). Just listen to Dick Vermeil talk about him at the combine.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i13HSZDabWI

Bills&Harley#1

April 7th, 2007, 10:06:13 AM

We need to draft Hall or Willis in the #1 spot and, presuming the one we don't take will be gone come the second round, we tade our (2)#3 to get back into the second round to give us (2) second round picks.

With those selections we look at the best available LB or CB depending on who we took in the first and use the othe pick to get Leonard.

To let Leonard slip away with all his versatility would be foolish. We know the team is going to a two back system and his character, physical and mental abilities are a rare package.

This kis can match up with any running back and be happy doing it...how amny other RB's can you say that about???

Extremefajita

April 7th, 2007, 11:21:35 AM

He's got my vote. I'd love to see him in a Bills uniform.

1. Willis or Poz
2. Leonard
3a. Brandon Mebane - DT/Cal
3b. Aundrae Allison - WR/E Carolina
4. Courtney Brown - CB/Cal Poly
6. Noland Burchette - DE/Va Tech
7a. Kyle Shotwell - LB/Cal Poly
7b. Matt Gutierrez - QB/Idaho St.

FknGvna

April 7th, 2007, 1:37:40 PM

Sorry to be so direct but would we be talking about him at all if he was black?NO!!! His 40 time is pretty good but he is no where near as athletic as Marshawn or Bush or anyone else.He is a strong guy with heart and a good work ethic but he is no NFL player.

I'd take this

He is a strong guy with heart and a good work ethic but he is no NFL player.

over this

His 40 time is pretty good but he is no where near as athletic

any time.

Dustybottoms

April 7th, 2007, 2:12:05 PM

To Dusty Bottoms on your Statement

Yes in the Orwellian world we live in, you certainly are playing it safe.

I think the posters with half of a brain can see the prejudices that this young man has to overcome: The racists that think European-Americans are un-athletic, the brainwashed that caste him in to something other than a feature running back for an offence, and the media who refuses to accurately report his 40 time (4.49 sec). Just listen to Dick Vermeil talk about him at the combine.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i13HSZDabWI

Here's to George(Orwell)!I dont think he is unathletic because he is white i think he is unathletic(compared to top tier N.F.L tallent)because I have seen him play.

Dustybottoms

April 7th, 2007, 2:35:05 PM

Czonka was a white FB who played pretty good.
Saying a white guy could not play FB or RB was the furthest from my point or belief.My point is I watch films and highlights of rb's and fb's and Brian Leonard is not that good IMO(maybie im wrong thats why its an oppinion)I just dont get why people like this guy.Maybie you guys like mediocre players.

C Darwin

April 7th, 2007, 4:00:05 PM

Here's to George(Orwell)!I dont think he is unathletic because he is white i think he is unathletic(compared to top tier N.F.L tallent)because I have seen him play.

How many other DI BCS college running backs that run a 4.49 40, bench more than anybody else at the combine, and jumps over people on the football field are you calling unathletic? Or just the white one? I’m surprised you haven’t brought out the “hip swivel motion” or the “quick twitch” muscles that he inherently lacks. What other euphemisms can we say about Brian Leonard? How about he’s a north / south, downhill runner. How about he’s a lunch pail, hard working, Charlie Hustle, all heart, character guy?

Heaven forbid he be labeled as athletic, which is most commonly reserved for football players without melanin deficiency.

If I seem harsh it is unintentional. I just would hate to see what happened to Mike Hass, happen to Brian Leonard.

FknGvna

April 10th, 2007, 1:36:04 PM

Upon furthur review

No injuries. Everyone else has them. Is that a positive?

INJURY REPORT
2004: Sat out the Syracuse game (Oct. 2) after suffering a leg bruise the previous week vs. Kent State.

jaymitch84

April 10th, 2007, 1:41:01 PM

I think he is very athletic.

But he has never carried a full load.

Someday he would be expected to do that. We have no assurances that he would be able to do that.

I wouldn't complain if the Bills took him, but with all the love for him more people need to step up and play devil's advocate ;)

FknGvna

April 10th, 2007, 1:42:41 PM

but with all the love for him more people need to step up and play devil's advocate ;)

You Must be talking about Patrick Willis.

What is there to talk about?

Negatives: When he gets too erect in his stance, he will lose some base and get pushed back through the rush lane … While Leonard has had success bouncing outside to gain yardage in the past, he was used mostly on runs between the tackles as a senior … Seems to have the speed to get outside, make the cut and turn it up the field, but he tends to lose his body lean and get too high in his stance, leaving his feet exposed for shoestring tackles … Runs with good forward lean between tackles, but must learn to keep the same pad level on cuts to the perimeter … Effective lead blocker, but despite his strength as a runner, he fails to generate much pop on contact with his hands … Flashes good speed cutting on the edge, but must generate a stronger kick-out and hand technique in attempts to sustain.

This is what's made him jump up on my chart. He was already there but I started to look at injuries.

jaymitch84

April 10th, 2007, 2:24:15 PM

You Must be talking about Patrick Willis.

What is there to talk about?

This is what's made him jump up on my chart. He was already there but I started to look at injuries.

I like those things about him. Does anyone have a response to the lack of "carrying the load"? I'm not trying to make a big fuss, I legitimately what to see an argument that says its okay that he has never really done the whole full time running back thing.

I like Brian Leonard, and I had the Bills picking him in my last all-Bills mock...I just have questions too.

Although if he was perfect, we'd be talking about him with that first pick instead.

FknGvna

April 10th, 2007, 3:20:57 PM

I remember hearing Leonard was supposed to be the featured back until 'that' new RB came along.

C Darwin

April 10th, 2007, 4:07:09 PM

Does anyone have a response to the lack of "carrying the load"?

Just doing some quick research, Leonard had more caries(678) than Lorenzo Booker (497). Leonard actually had more than 200 caries his freshman year and averaged 4.1 y/c.

Ghost_Dog1

April 10th, 2007, 4:15:52 PM

Merk

April 10th, 2007, 4:34:22 PM

C Darwin

April 10th, 2007, 4:59:39 PM

Is he a Feature back?No. / He won't be a 1500 yard feature back.

Why?

C Darwin

April 10th, 2007, 5:01:41 PM

Then if you do happen to get a feature back you can move Leonard to FB
What is it about Leonard that makes him non-feature back material?

Merk

April 10th, 2007, 5:27:41 PM

What is it about Leonard that makes him non-feature back material?

For my personal preference he doesnt have an explosive 2nd gear that I like in RB's ala LT or if you want to see a phenomanal one watch D.McFadden from Arkansas. Some people dont mind that though and just want a hammer for a RB

jaymitch84

April 10th, 2007, 6:48:57 PM

Is he a Feature back?No. But he can be a lot of things. 6-2 225 4.5 40, he averaged almost 50 catches a season. His versatility is perfect for a no huddle offense. H-back,Slot,wide,Tail,F-back.

He won't be a 1500 yard feature back. But He would add a dimension.

That Said would they spend thier second round pick on him?

That's the big upside to him. I don't think the Bills would be set for good at RB after drafting him, but he can do a lot of things to contribute even if it isn't necessarily as a feature back.

jaymitch84

April 10th, 2007, 6:50:28 PM

Just doing some quick research, Leonard had more caries(678) than Lorenzo Booker (497). Leonard actually had more than 200 caries his freshman year and averaged 4.1 y/c.

That's less than 170 per season...and I did qualify my statement by saying that he hasn't eclipsed 200 carries since 2003.

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 6:56:09 AM

For my personal preference he doesnt have an explosive 2nd gear that I like in RB's ala LT or if you want to see a phenomanal one watch D.McFadden from Arkansas. Some people dont mind that though and just want a hammer for a RB

Brian Leonard's Second Gear.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vp2WqYIttKg

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 7:17:22 AM

That's less than 170 per season...and I did qualify my statement by saying that he hasn't eclipsed 200 carries since 2003.

If you compare the avg. carries of Marshawn Lynch for the last two seasons (210), and the three seasons where Brian Leonard was allowed to be the feature back for Rutgers (195) you will see that the difference is insignificant. Are you holding his senior year against him?

FknGvna

April 11th, 2007, 8:33:55 AM

For my personal preference he doesnt have an explosive 2nd gear that I like in RB's ala LT or if you want to see a phenomanal one watch D.McFadden from Arkansas. Some people dont mind that though and just want a hammer for a RB

I was just going to comment on his speed and this thread is a good starter for me. Check out his third gear in the yahoo videos.

Merk

April 11th, 2007, 9:17:37 AM

Brian Leonard's Second Gear.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vp2WqYIttKg

I've seen the video and I watched that game when it happened

Thats having good speed thats not having an explosive 2nd gear

Watch a couple highlights of McFadden and you will see the difference. DM will be running and he will get to the second level see a hole and all of a sudden explode through it leaving defenders who run 4.4's and 4.3's in the dust. If a RB like DM's makes it past your LB's hes gone thats not always the case w/ Leonard and in fact not the case w/ most RB's college and in the NFL

admarc

April 11th, 2007, 9:33:27 AM

The carrying the load question to me really isnt a worry

He was the starting RB his first 2 years at Rutgers and the reason he didnt clip more than 250 carries is b/c most of the time Rutgers was playing from behind so they had to shelve the running game and go to the air. In hind site in ended up helping him b/c it gave him a great set of hands out of the backfield and he became better at picking up the blitz. His last two years Rice was there and he split the carries his Junior year and then moved to FB so they could both be on the field at the same time.

I think if asked he could carry the load but if you are drafting Leonard you likely would draft a scat back like Booker w/ him to compliment him and his style so he will be splitting carries anyway in the RB role. Then if you do happen to get a feature back you can move Leonard to FB

This is a great point and something I was thinking about as well. The fact Leonard changed roles almost every year in college has helped him to be one of the more well rounded backs to come out in years. Look at a phenom like A. Peterson. He is a great, feature back prospect, but he has never been asked to block and rarely was used in the passing game. Of course he can learn those things, but Leonard has already had on the job training in all facets of being a RB. Lead blocking, lined up as an H-back, swung out wide as a reciever, used as the lone back, relied on for pass protection and not to mention his role as team leader.

The only better training he could have had to hone each individual skill was if Mr. Miyagi himself trained him.

http://sportsmed.starwave.com/media/pg2/2002/0830/photo/karate_i.jpg

jaymitch84

April 11th, 2007, 9:55:20 AM

If you compare the avg. carries of Marshawn Lynch for the last two seasons (210), and the three seasons where Brian Leonard was allowed to be the feature back for Rutgers (195) you will see that the difference is insignificant. Are you holding his senior year against him?

Where did I use Marshawn Lynch as my benchmark?

I'm pretty sure one of his knocks is that he has never carried the full load either.

Kenny Irons had 256 carries in 2005 and 198 carries in 2006 (in 2006, however, he had 2 games he didn't play and a game with only 1 carry, so that kept his total attempts down).

Darius Walker had 253 and 255 carries the last two years.

Tony Hunt had 277 carries this past season.

Those are examples I would use of players getting this "full load" I am talking about.

jaymitch84

April 11th, 2007, 10:04:16 AM

This is a great point and something I was thinking about as well. The fact Leonard changed roles almost every year in college has helped him to be one of the more well rounded backs to come out in years. Look at a phenom like A. Peterson. He is a great, feature back prospect, but he has never been asked to block and rarely was used in the passing game. Of course he can learn those things, but Leonard has already had on the job training in all facets of being a RB. Lead blocking, lined up as an H-back, swung out wide as a reciever, used as the lone back, relied on for pass protection and not to mention his role as team leader.

This is what I like about him. I think if the Bills got him they would always need a second back around to share some of the carries, but Leonard would provide a versatility to this offense that most other RB's can't give you.

The only better training he could have had to hone each individual skill was if Mr. Miyagi himself trained him.

http://sportsmed.starwave.com/media/pg2/2002/0830/photo/karate_i.jpg

He'd go first overall if that was the case. :D

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 10:09:59 AM

Watch a couple highlights of McFadden and you will see the difference. DM will be running and he will get to the second level see a hole and all of a sudden explode through it leaving defenders who run 4.4's and 4.3's in the dust. If a RB like DM's makes it past your LB's hes gone thats not always the case w/ Leonard and in fact not the case w/ most RB's college and in the NFL

Ok. So in order to qualify as a “feature back” in the NFL, one must possess the speed of McFadden? I can assure you that McGahee, Henry, A. Smith, Thomas and Riddick were all feature backs for the bills, and none of them had the speed of McFadden. Most of them probably didn't have the speed of Leonard either.

I got these figures from another poster on another blog. The data is cited from Nfldraft**********

Lewis, Jamal: 4.58
Alexander, Shaun: 4.58
Dayne, Ron: 4.65
Droughns, Reuben: 4.61
Anderson, Mike: 4.69
Jordan, Lamont: 4.57
Henry, Travis: 4.61
Barlow, Kevan: 4.56
Johnson, Rudi: 4.57
Shipp, Marcel: 4.71
Foster, DeShaun: 4.57
Westbrook, Brian: 4.57
Johnson, Larry: 4.55
Davis, Domanick: 4.58
Jones, Greg: 4.55
Perry, Chris: 4.55
Moore, Mewelde: 4.65
Fason, Ciatrick: 4.55
Harris, Kay-Jay: 4.56
Jacobs, Brandon: 4.56
Gore, Frank: 4.55
Maroney, Laurence: 4.55
Humes, Cedric: 4.62
Bell, Mike: 4.60
Hunt, Tony: 4.66
Bush, Michael: 4.62
Walker, Darius: 4.55

I see a few “feature” tail backs in there with less speed than Brian Leonard. Maybe leading the NFL in rushing doesn’t qualify a person as a “feature back”.

jaymitch84

April 11th, 2007, 10:18:46 AM

admarc

April 11th, 2007, 10:20:00 AM

Where did I use Marshawn Lynch as my benchmark?

I'm pretty sure one of his knocks is that he has never carried the full load either.

Kenny Irons had 256 carries in 2005 and 198 carries in 2006 (in 2006, however, he had 2 games he didn't play and a game with only 1 carry, so that kept his total attempts down).

Darius Walker had 253 and 255 carries the last two years.

Tony Hunt had 277 carries this past season.

Those are examples I would use of players getting this "full load" I am talking about.

You don't draft B. Leonard to carry a full load. You draft B Leonard to use in a two back system. He is a complementary back who can be used in a multitude of ways and will add an extra dimension to what ever team drafts him. He'll get 10-15 carries a game and get thrown to at least 5 times a game, plus he'll be used as a lead blocker and for pass protection.

For the Bills he'll improve several areas that they have been deficient in for a long time.

Short yardage and goal line. His 45 TDs in college were no mirage, the guy finds the end zone. His size and athleticism make him a perfect goal line back. He can get air born or lower his shoulder to pick up that tough yard. 4th and 1 from the 1, game on the line I would trust Leonard to get that yard.

H-back/TE production - the Bills have been without a recieving threat at the TE position for years. Leonard could team up with Royal and provide a true threat lining up as an H-Back or recieving TE.

Screens / underneath passing - The Bills haven't had that dump off option that can turn a two yard pass or screen into a big gainer in a long time, maybe since Thurman. These plays are blitz busters. Leonard can make an initial pop on a blitzer to slow him down and then swing out for a quick pass and turn it into a substantial gain.

Pass protection / Lead Blocking- Leonard, as a single back or as FB does a nice job of picking up blitzes. He is like another coach on the field and will be able to recognizes blitzes quickly and put himself in the best position to make the block. Also, Leonard has been given a bad rap for his lead blocking. He did lead the way for Rice to pick up 1,800 yards this year. He gets good position and blocks with great leverage. I think this knock is one of those, "we need to fill in a negative about him on our scouting report" things were it gets overblown. He doesn't always deliver a highlight reel devastating block, but he gets the job done.

Versatility - The thing that made the K-Gun really go in the Bills Super Bowl years was the versatility of Thurman Thomas. With the same personel on the field the Bills could line up in a multitude of looks to create mismatches. Leonard would give the Bills that same opportunity to create mismatches by lining him up in different formations.

Character and Leadership - This really can't be discounted. The Bills are a young team. I think before long, Leonard would be a guy the others look to for leadership.

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 10:30:40 AM

I think the point is not that Brian Leonard isn't capable of doing it...but that he's never done it. In 4 years the most carries he ever had in a season was 213, and that was in 2003.

Sure, its possible that he could be the feature/full-time RB...but it has never happened before.

Frank Gore @ Miami in 2004 Carries-197 Yards-945 Avg-4.8 Long-44 TD-8

He only played one year.
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=120142

jaymitch84

April 11th, 2007, 10:31:33 AM

C Darwin, are you actually Brian Leonard trying to convince us that you can do it? :D

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 10:38:42 AM

Unfortunately it’s not working.

admarc

April 11th, 2007, 10:40:19 AM

C Darwin, are you actually Brian Leonard trying to convince us that you can do it? :D

http://www.cineol.net/images/noticias/Cameos/Waterboy_2.jpg

You Can Do IT

Merk

April 11th, 2007, 1:31:40 PM

emo

April 11th, 2007, 1:38:10 PM

I'm not sold on leonard at all. he isn't a fullback he certainly isn't a running back. So he's some sort of hybrid large 3rd down back?

Callaway

April 11th, 2007, 1:44:27 PM

Ok. So in order to qualify as a “feature back” in the NFL, one must possess the speed of McFadden? I can assure you that McGahee, Henry, A. Smith, Thomas and Riddick were all feature backs for the bills, and none of them had the speed of McFadden. Most of them probably didn't have the speed of Leonard either.

I got these figures from another poster on another blog. The data is cited from Nfldraft**********

Lewis, Jamal: 4.58
Alexander, Shaun: 4.58
Dayne, Ron: 4.65
Droughns, Reuben: 4.61
Anderson, Mike: 4.69
Jordan, Lamont: 4.57
Henry, Travis: 4.61
Barlow, Kevan: 4.56
Johnson, Rudi: 4.57
Shipp, Marcel: 4.71
Foster, DeShaun: 4.57
Westbrook, Brian: 4.57
Johnson, Larry: 4.55
Davis, Domanick: 4.58
Jones, Greg: 4.55
Perry, Chris: 4.55
Moore, Mewelde: 4.65
Fason, Ciatrick: 4.55
Harris, Kay-Jay: 4.56
Jacobs, Brandon: 4.56
Gore, Frank: 4.55
Maroney, Laurence: 4.55
Humes, Cedric: 4.62
Bell, Mike: 4.60
Hunt, Tony: 4.66
Bush, Michael: 4.62
Walker, Darius: 4.55

I see a few “feature” tail backs in there with less speed than Brian Leonard. Maybe leading the NFL in rushing doesn’t qualify a person as a “feature back”.

You lost my on this post. It looks like by your definition that just being a starter makes you a feature back. Seriously do you want to use Shipp, Marcel: as a reason for why Leonard can be a feature back in this league? I've see Leonard play almost every single college game hes been in and he can be a good RB in the NFL but he can be a great FB. Can he be the starter for 16 games? Sure, but so can Shaud Williams and in my opinion that doesnt make you a feature back. A feature back to me is someone who has pro bowl potential at the posistion and is rated in the top 10 or around it at there position. Outside of that they are just good-avg-bad starters. I agree with Merk he doesnt have that Second Gear that McFadden and Slaton posses. I myself prefer those types of runners over the E.George/J.Bettis 3 yards a cloud of dust runners. Both types are feature backs with different styles

emo

April 11th, 2007, 1:47:47 PM

I don't think he can be a great fullback. he doesn't want to play fullback. You don't lose 14 pounds going to the senior bowl if you want to impress as a fullback.

he's more than likely going to be an above average football player but he's not the second coming. there is a well worn cliche, jack of all trades master of none, it couldn't find a better fit with leonard.

Callaway

April 11th, 2007, 1:51:17 PM

emo

April 11th, 2007, 1:54:38 PM

Hes a team guy. If the team that drafts him wants him to pack back on those 14 pounds and play FB he'll do it.

Oh I dont' doubt that he would. But I guess, I'm not as creative as I should be, but he's someone who i wouldn't be upset if they drafted.

I just think for this specific offense he might not be utilized to the best of his capabilities.

From what the bills have done in the offseason the offense is going to be rather bland. Batter you with our big oline, make you bring your safeties up and go over the top.

But I can see leonard motioning to a split out position. but I think he can be eliminated by a linebacker. he did awesome things in college, but its not the pros, everyone did awesome things.

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 2:13:33 PM

Your missing the point. You asked me what I want to see in a feature back and for me my personal prefernce I want a guy w/ a explosive second gear. Some people lean towards a guy that can just be and dont have that second gear both are feature backs both have different styles.

I don’t think I’m missing the point, and I think it’s tragic that you use the term “feature back” subjectively. I think it’s a misuse of the word, but I digress. Anyway, in your context, a Merk “feature back” would run a 4.19 40, come from the BCS, and run with a hybrid style of Barry Sanders and Earl Campbell. I hate to break this to you, but Bo Jackson is not playing for Auburn anymore. I understand that you put a high emphasis on speed when you rate a running back, but as I have pointed out, McFadden’s speed is not necessary to be the “feature” or primary tailback in an NFL offense.

Merk

April 11th, 2007, 2:38:42 PM

Your missing the point. You asked me what I want to see in a feature back and for me my personal prefernce I want a guy w/ a explosive second gear. Some people lean towards a guy that can just be a hammer and dont have that second gear both are feature backs both have different styles.

I don’t think I’m missing the point, and I think it’s tragic that you use the term “feature back” subjectively. I think it’s a misuse of the word, but I digress. Anyway, in your context, a Merk “feature back” would run a 4.19 40, come from the BCS, and run with a hybrid style of Barry Sanders and Earl Campbell. I hate to break this to you, but Bo Jackson is not playing for Auburn anymore. I understand that you put a high emphasis on speed when you rate a running back, but as I have pointed out, McFadden’s speed is not necessary to be the “feature” or primary tailback in an NFL offense.

Yup thats exactly what I said :rolleyes:

I never said you couldnt be a feature back w/out speed, all I said is I prefer one w/ a Explosive second gear as opposed to the hammer

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 2:38:53 PM

A feature back to me is someone who has pro bowl potential at the posistion and is rated in the top 10 or around it at there position. Outside of that they are just good-avg-bad starters. I agree with Merk he doesnt have that Second Gear that McFadden and Slaton posses. I myself prefer those types of runners over the E.George/J.Bettis 3 yards a cloud of dust runners. Both types are feature backs with different styles

Why can’t he be great? What does he lack that makes it unlikely for him to be the best RB that ever lived? Also, If a feature back is “someone who has pro bowl potential at the position and is rated in the top 10 or around it at there position” wouldn’t he be a feature back since NFL Network's Mike Mayock has Leonard ranked as the #4 running back in the draft. You are also calling E.George/J.Bettis feature backs with different styles. So why can’t Leonard be a feature back with a style like Bettis and Eddie?

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 2:40:51 PM

Then if you do happen to get a feature back you can move Leonard to FB
If Leonard is a feature back, why should he be moved?

admarc

April 11th, 2007, 3:16:55 PM

There's some silly stuff being said in this thread. First of all, if anyone thought Leonard was the second coming, we would be pushing for the Bills to draft him in the 1st round. I don't think anyone is suggesting that. What I have seen is some feel he will be a solid pro and a good selection in the 2nd or 3rd round.

Adrian Peterson is the clear cut #1 back in this draft and will be a "feature back" . A feature back is not a back that you use in a rotation. He is a workhorse that an offense is built around. Like Merk said a feature back can have different styles. A power running team that uses one feature back might prefer a hammer type to jam it between the tackles over and over to wear down opponents. He may not be expected to break many long ones, but he is expected to get positive yardage every play.

Other teams prefer a feature back with break away ability. Someone who with a crease can hit another gear and break it all the way. He may take a few more chances looking for a hole and may lose yards on some plays but his breakaway ability more than compensates.

Than there is the rare prospect who can do it all like Earl Campbell.

There are also more and more teams using a two back system. They can use either a hammer type with a speed guy, or some may choose two hammers. The advantage being you have fresh legs to wear teams down. Jauron has clearly said in several interviews that he would like to go with a two back committee in Buffalo. That's why i think Leonard could be a perfect fit and more valuable to the Bills than to a team that is seeking one back to feature exclusively. Leonard's versatility means he can be used with another back at the same time or as a single back. That flexibility gives a coaching staff lots of opportunity to be creative. I trust Fairchild and Jauron to get the most out of a player like Leonard, who isn't the fastes or the biggest but is the most versatile.

Mouldsie

April 11th, 2007, 3:27:45 PM

:calm:

admarc

April 11th, 2007, 3:28:34 PM

If I were ranking Leonard at each individual skill it would break down as follows:

HB - Running ability - 4th behind Peterson, Lynch and Pittman

HB - Blocking ability - 1st

HB - receiving ability - 2nd behind Lynch (Peterson will eventually be better but doesn't have Leonard's experience as a receiver at this point)

FB - blocking - 3rd - behind McLain and Anderson

FB receiving - 1st

FB Rushing - 1st

Receiving TE/H-Back - 3rd behind Olson and Miller

Short Yardage back - #1

Character/leadership/intelligence among backs- #1

That's pretty good value for 1 player in the 2nd round.

C Darwin

April 11th, 2007, 5:58:14 PM

My objection is simple: The casting of Brian Leonard into a particular category without qualification. As entertainment, I enjoy questioning those qualifications and will continue to do so. Why am I a fanatic about this? Here are a couple of reasons: Mike Hass, Jesse Lumsden, Brock Forsey, Luke Staley and Travis Jervey.

As some of you may recall, Mike Alstott was drafted in the second round of the 1996 draft. He tore up the Big 10 by scoring 39 touchdowns in 42 career games. Alstott was poised dominate the NFL. He had a decent run in his rookie season, but came crashing down to earth when the Buccaneers used their first round pick to get Warrick Dunn. For some odd reason the Bucks felt that running back was their biggest need. Dunn, to no one's surprise, took over from there. Like Brian Leonard, Alstott was never considered a "running back", instead, he was always known as the fullback with the capability of running the football. One can only hope that Brian Leonard receives the same opportunities that Willis McGahee and Jamal Lewis have had.

Brian Leonard is the most recent, and depending how Kyle Bell does this year, final hope for a white starting running back in the NFL. He has the shiftiness, the elusiveness, the hands, and the vision, needed to make the right cuts and reads to be successful as an every down back. He should not be limited to playing the h, short yardage or blocking back position. He is simply a guy being caste into a position that he can play, but is not best suited for.

Brian Leonard is a running back. And God willing, that is a statement you will hear from your kids, friends, and family members in the coming years, with one change, of course: Brian Leonard is a star running back.

Pro Bowler, Super Bowl XVII MVP, and Hall of Fame running back John Riggins says: “Don’t caste Brian Leonard”
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/images/redskins/oldies/riggins.jpg

Callaway

April 11th, 2007, 11:06:34 PM

Why can’t he be great? What does he lack that makes it unlikely for him to be the best RB that ever lived? Also, If a feature back is “someone who has pro bowl potential at the position and is rated in the top 10 or around it at there position” wouldn’t he be a feature back since NFL Network's Mike Mayock has Leonard ranked as the #4 running back in the draft. You are also calling E.George/J.Bettis feature backs with different styles. So why can’t Leonard be a feature back with a style like Bettis and Eddie?

Do I seriously need to explain the difference between J.Bettis/E.George and Brian Leonard to you? If I do I question if you have ever seen him play outside some youtube highlight films. Well if Mike Mayock called him the #4 RB in the draft he is destined for the Hall of Fame. Mel Kiper thinks he will be an H-Back. Other sites still have him listed as a FB. Is he going into the HOF at those posistions too? How many times have you ever seen him play? What is your definition of a "Feature Back" that you keep tossing around? Judging by that list you did earlier that has a M.Moore and C.Fason on it its anyone that can walk. If thats the case I am wrong and not only is Brian Leonard a feature back he is on the cusp of being a God. Brian Leonard is a good player he can add a lot to this team but your making him to be something he is not

Callaway

April 11th, 2007, 11:07:44 PM