Chargers 2011 Draft: UConn RB Jordan Todman

Written by Gil Alcaraz | 30 April 2011

With the 183^rd pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, the San Diego Chargers select Jordan Todman, running back from UConn.

The Chargers are getting huge value in the sixth round with a player like Todman. He’s a very well-rounded runner who uses an impressive combination of speed and toughness to rack up yards. With his speed and elusiveness, he makes defenders miss and picks up extra yards. When he runs inside, he does a good job of lowering his should and pick up the tough yardage. During his time at UConn, he proved time and time again that he could carry the team on his back, basically making up the Huskies offense in 2010. He’s durable and tough, and also has experience in the return game.

His lack of size is the scariest part of his game. He doesn’t shy away from hits, which is a good and a bad thing. He has a small frame that leaves him susceptible to injuries and makes him a liability as a pass blocker. He’s also not a huge threat to catch passes out of the backfield, which most people feel is a huge need for running backs of his size.

With injury concerns swirling around second-year running back Ryan Mathews, back-up runner Mike Tolbert’s future with the team uncertain, and third-down running back Darren Sproles possibly headed out of San Diego, the addition of Todman is smart. He may even be able to replace Sproles as the third-down back if he can continue to work on his catching and pass-blocking.

The thing that makes this such a good pick is the value. Many scouts had Todman rated as a second or third round prospect, and the Chargers were able to draft his services in the sixth round. He should provide some sort of spark for the Bolts’ offense this season if he continues to grow into a third-down back role.

Grade: B