Cincinnati Bengals selected Auburn RB Kenny Irons with the #49
overall selection (#17 in the 2nd round) in the 2007 NFL draft. Irons lacks size but he brings a quickness and versatility to the Bengals backfield to complement the size & strength of starting RB Rudi Johnson. This selection speaks volumes about how much the Bengals brass feels Chris Perry can contribute to the team in 2007 and beyond.
Scouting Report:
- Position: Running Back
- Height: 5'11"
- Weight: 200
- 40 Time: 4.45
Kenny Irons is a 3rd down type back who has adequate size, decent speed and great quickness. Some scouts are conflicted on whether Irons could be an NFL featured back because of his size but nobody questions his contributions to the running game as a change of pace and receiver out of the backfield. If he can add some bulk to his frame, he could develop into a starter down the line.
Fantasy Prognosis: Irons will be a backup and battle veteran Chris Perry for the right to be the first off the bench backup and 3rd down option behind Rudi Johnson. If Chris Perry is healthy, that will be a competitive fight but since the Bengals spent a 2nd round pick on Irons we should assume Perry isn't completely healthy. Thus expect Irons to be used as a runner & receiver, which will be good for a #4 fantasy WR with potential for more if Rudi Johnson were to get hurt. His long-term potential is limited some due to his size but anything is possible if he can mature in the next few years.
2007 Predicted Numbers:
Touches: 95 Carries, 25 Catches
Total Yards: 575 Yards
TD's: 2
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