As we see a switch in the league start to value running back a little more, Hampton could not be having a better time to break out.
Although North Carolina has their struggles on offense since Drake Maye departed, Hampton has been a bright spot not only on UNC, but across the entire nation.
Outside of possible Heisman Trophy winner Ashton Genty, Hampton has been the top RB in the nation. Omarion has tallied up 1660 yards, 15 TDs across 5.9 YPC. Hard to outdo his performance last year of 1500 yards, but without a healthy QB1 they relied heavily on the bell cow back. His expectations have risen as he has gotten the attention of a lot of 1st round caliber guys.
PLAYER INFO
Name: Omarion Hampton
Jersey #: 28
Position: Runningback
School: North Carolina
Class: Junior
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 220 lbs
Omarion Hampton’s Strengths
Next to impossible to tackle with one person. He continues to move his legs and shows excellent contact balance.
Initial burst through the line of scrimmage is powerful. Very, very rarely do you see him fall backwards.
Underrated ability to pick up a blitz with strong pop knocking defenders off balance.
Breakaway speed is solid for size and power balance.
Omarion Hampton’s Weaknesses
Needs to lower pad level at next level to continue the same impact with NFL defenders.
Not a great one-cut back but also does not try to be.
Can be a workhorse but probably will not be most effective in true passing situations unless it is a screen or a chip to flat.
Draft Projection
Hampton is a perfect prospect I would say is a top 50 guy. We have seen the streak of backs go early, and I do not think he will be a top selected RB such as Gibbs or Bijan, but I do think someone sees value in that 25-45 range.
Hampton reminds me very much of Josh Jacobs, and with that comes high upside. I could see a team such as the Raiders or Cowboys taking a shot with weaker backfields and injured QBs. I can also see New Orleans or Minnesota helping their receiving backs as they age as well.
