Trent Richardson to Break Out With Oakland Raiders

Aug 15, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Trent Richardson (33) runs the ball away from Detroit Lions cornerback Chris Houston (23) in the first quarter of a preseason game at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Richardson Better Than You Think

Richardson’s ability to break tackles and make guys miss is what got him picked No. 3 overall in 2012. Running backs with that combination aren’t usually busts and his tape shows he still has it. On a bad team as a rookie with two broken ribs, Richardson had 950 yards and 11 TDs, ranking No. 7 in Pro Football Focus’ elusive rating and No. 15 in yards after contact.

In 2013, he was traded to the Indianapolis Colts midway through the year and he struggled. But he was still second only to Marshawn Lynch in elusive rating according to Pro Football Focus. That matched what I saw on tape as he is a great broken field runner that can shake you out of your shoes in space.

Then last year, his third, he statistically didn’t do well but was still the same guy I saw at Alabama. His balance, power and moves were still there as he didn’t never got brought down by one man. According to Football Outsiders Richardson’s broken tackle per touch rate was fifth in the NFL in 2014.

Next: Not on Richardson