re: Will Derrick Henry return to school? Ex-NFL scout gives 4th round grade on Henry

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nyone who has watched Derek run away from cornerbacks in the SEC knows that he is still incredibly fast, especially for his size. He is a legitimate break away back.

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Yes, he does have breakaway ability and he is a home run threat, which is exceptional for a guy his size. That doesn't really explain 40 time though. 40 time is about acceleration more than anything. I know Henry has good top-end speed and a long stride, which does help him outrun SEC db's. I'll use another example. Jeremy hill had multiple touchdowns of over 50 yards in his LSU career, and I never once saw him get chased down by a db, or anyone else in fact. He was burning guys left and right. His best 40 time at the combine was a 4.64 at 235, which is very respectable, and to be honest, plenty of speed for an NFL back who just needs to move the chains. He himself was a home run threat with a 40 time in the 4.6's, because his top-end speed was great. Carlos Hyde also could outrun db's at about the same weight and a 40 time of 4.63.