Chicago Bears Draft Scout: Akrum Wadley

Pro Comparison

At this point, Wadley doesn’t appear to be an every-down NFL back. He might be a specialist that could come in on third down or split out at wide receiver to catch passes. His inability to block, at least right now, makes him a bit of a liability on passing downs. The team that drafts him is going to have to take some time to teach him how to pass block.

One nice thing about Wadley is that he could play special teams. He had some success returning kicks so being able to play special teams will not only help him earn a roster spot but also help get him drafted.

Who does Wadley compare to? After watching him play during his career at Iowa, its thought that he compares well to guys like Cleveland’s Duke Johnson or a taller Darren Sproles. These guys are shorter and lighter, but they have some quickness about them just like Wadley has. They aren’t every down backs, like Wadley, but they can help in special situations. That may be what Wadley needs to do to make it on an NFL team. He can start by playing special teams right away and work his way up from there.

Wadley probably won’t be one of those “gadget” backs like Tarik Cohen but he will be someone that can come in and help out in certain situations. Wherever he catches on, Wadley could end up being a valuable substitutional asset that could help increase an offense’s productivity and give them another option in running, receiving and special teams.