Army and San Diego State are playing in the 2017 Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl. The Aztecs have produced another NFL-caliber running back for this game. Army has just started in recent years to get the football program back on track, so the NFL players will be on the way. Here are the top NFL Draft prospects in the 2017 Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl:
San Diego State Aztecs
Rashaad Penny, RB
Penny took over for the FBS all time leading rusher in Donnel Pumphrey. He has continued the production at the position. This season Penny rushed for 2,027 yards and 19 touchdowns to lead the nation in rushing. He averages 7.4 yards per carry this season. Penny has experience catching the ball out of the backfield and as a returner on special teams.
While Pumphrey was small and light, Penny is built more like a NFL running back. He is 5’11” and 220 pounds. His 275 carries this season show he can be an every down back and has durability. Penny’s ability on special teams will help him see the field early on. He is one of the best running backs in the class and will be drafted at some point after the first day of the 2018 NFL Draft.
Projected draft range: 3rd round-6th round
David Wells, TE
Wells doesn’t have the biggest numbers, but also plays in a system that emphasizes running the ball. What this does give him is experience run blocking. His numbers through four years are 449 yards receiving and six touchdowns.
His size is NFL-level at 6’5” and 255 pounds. With the lack of production, his workouts and blocking ability will get him a chance in the NFL.
Projected draft range: 6th round-undrafted free agent.
Army Black Knights
Brett Toth, OT
Toth starts at right tackle for Army and is likely the only Black Knight who could be drafted or get a chance to make a team. It’s a longshot, especially because he needs to get permission from the Army to play in the NFL, but he has a chance. Pro Football Focus ranked Toth as a top five run blocker as an offensive tackle before the beginning of the season.
He has the height for the NFL at 6’6”, but will need to put on a lot of weight to make an NFL roster. He only weighs 259 pounds. This may make him a good candidate to move inside on the offensive line. Pass blocking will be a question with him, as he wasn’t asked to do that too often at Army.
Projected draft range: undrafted free agent
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