Dynasty Spotlight: Cameron Artis-Payne, RB Auburn- 2015 NFL Draft

Height: 5’10”
Weight: 212 pounds
Hand Size: 8 7/8″

40 Time: 4.53
Vertical Jump: 36.5″
Broad Jump: 118″ (9’10”)

NFL Comparison: Dan Herron, Branden Oliver, Benny Cunningham

Scouting Notes:

Cameron Artis-Payne was a junior college transfer to Auburn, who saw limited action behind stud running back Tre Mason in 2013. He ran away with the job in 2014, though. Only reviewing Payne’s stats after we broke down his film, the numbers he put up last season as a Tiger are eye-popping. We were surprised.

(Best run on tape, if he can do this consistently he can be effective at the next level)

As a smaller back, he eclipsed 300 carries- showing much needed durability. He also amassed over 1600 yards, and scored 13 times. His 5.3 yards per carry average also caught us off guard, it’s not what we saw on tape- but we can’t deny the respectability of that number over a full season against SEC competition. Some would argue, it’s a product of the space the Auburn offense creates. Perhaps, the fact that his longest run was 37 yards – is more reflective of the tape. What that means, however, is that in the absence of big plays, Payne was very efficient and effective on a down-to-down basis in order to create such an average. Consistency is a trait not lost on NFL personnel evaluators. Getting 4+ yards per carry snap over snap and keeping the offense on schedule is an offensive coordinator’s dream.

(Solid receiver out of backfield)

We see a runner, who mostly gets what’s blocked for him. He doesn’t typically create many yards after contact. He does run with adequate patience and vision. His feet are above average, he’s just not overly elusive and lacks elite burst. Neither is he overly powerful. Payne is, however, fairly adept in the receiving game. He projects as a capable backup at the next level, or an adequate change-of-pace / complementary back in a comittee approach. He was very uninspiring as a prospect at the Senior Bowl in a class that did not feature great runners.

Fantasy Outlook:

With the immense depth available at the running back position in this year’s rookie class, Cameron Artis-Payne isn’t shaping up as a priority in Dynasty Rookie Drafts. Although, he will likely have the most value in PPR formats. During the season, Payne may be worth a spot start if he’s in a situation where he’s slated for volume and happens to be on a team with a good offensive line.