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Among those Mountaineers hoping to hear their names called during the annual NFL Draft in May, Charles Sims is regarded as being the one most likely to be chosen first.
He played one season for WVU after transferring from Houston. He considered jumping to the NFL a year early, but jumped at the chance of being reunited with Dana Holgorsen for one more season. During his one year in Morgantown, he rushed for 1,095 yards, and had another 401 yards as a receiver. He earned first-team All-Big 12 honors from the coaches and was named the Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year by The Associated Press.
He showcased himself as being the best RB during the Senior Bowl week, before getting injured early in that game. He stood out at the NFL Combine by running a 4.48 in the 40-yard dash. Before the combine, he was seen as a third-down back. After showcasing his speed in the 40, 3-cone and shuttle drills, many now view him as an every down back. At 6'0″, 214lbs., he looks the part as an NFL running back.
He has good burst and vision to make his way through and around the line. His ability to split out wide makes him a multi-dimensional threat. Opposing defenses will have to account for where he lines up on every down.
He build makes his center of gravity high, which is unusual as a RB, and could be a detriment to him at the pro level. Stronger defenders would have more of a chance to knock the ball out of his hands when he runs through traffic. The high center of gravity helps him, however, when engaged in pass-blocking.
Right now, he is seen as a possible Third Round selection. He draws favorable comparisons to Matt Forte of the Chicago Bears.
Teams Sims has met with:
We will update this profile on Sims as we hear more about his travels leading up to and after the NFL Draft.
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