Dynasty Spotlight: Ameer Abdullah, RB Nebraska- 2015 NFL Draft

Height: 5’9″
Weight: 205 pounds
Hand Size: 8 5/8″

40 Time: 4.53
Vertical Jump: 42.5″
Broad Jump: 130″ (10’10”)

NFL Comparison: Justin Forsett, Shane Vereen

Scouting Notes:

The Trashman’s Senior Bowl Preview of Ameer Abdullah turned out to be spot on, as these were our notes upon our return from Mobile:

“When he gets the touches he is going to be extremely dangerous in the NFL. Abullah is a big play waiting to happen. He’s small in stature, yet has a powerful build. We expect him to be a very threatening change-of-pace back to begin his NFL career, the lightning to another runner’s thunder, in a committee backfield. He’s going to be drafted to play right away, though. If he gets double-digit touches, he’s going to be a threat for double-digit fantasy points every week he starts, even as a rookie, with even greater upside in PPR. Ameer Abdullah is on our radar-big time.”

With the NFL Combine and Abdullah’s pro day now in the books, we are more confident than ever that he is one of the best runners in this year’s rookie crop. The explosive player we saw in Mobile and on tape was not reflected in his 40 times in terms of pure speed. But, his burst and quickness in small space (most important for RBs) were confirmed by broad and vertical jumps, the 3-cone drill, and his 20-yard and 60-yard shuttle times – all of which ranked as elite measurements among his peers at the NFL Combine.

In many ways, Abdullah reminds us of Duke Johnson out of Miami. Except, we believe Abdullah is more elusive and runs with a bit more power or “pop” upon contact with defenders. A team like the Texans, or Patriots who are in need of a Shane Vereen-type complementary back would be well suited for Abdullah’s talents. If push comes to shove, the former Cornhusker will be capable of carrying the load for short stints during the course of an NFL Season.

Fantasy Outlook:

As we stated after the Senior Bowl, Abdullah is on our radar big-time. We expect him to be drafted by a team that plans on utilizing him quickly as a rookie. He’s going to be a very valuable asset in PPR formats, specifically Dynasty Leagues. He’ll certainly also be a redraft rookie to monitor closely. If there is ever news that he is slated for double-digit touches, he’ll be a plug-and-play flex option in all formats. Certainly, if he ever gets a crack at 20 touches, he’ll be close to a must-start RB2. Select Ameer Abdullah anywhere from the late 1st round through the 2nd round in Rookie Dynasty Drafts.