Spotlight Player: Chad Diehl FB Clemson

[JonJon]

Chad Diehl, FB, Clemson
Height: 6-2. Weight: 265.
Projected 40 Time: 4.79.
Projected Round (2011): 7-FA.

Chad Diehl is a powerful lead blocker. He has the ability to run over defenders and blast open holes for running backs. Diehl is not much of a runner or receiver. Over three seasons, he has a total of seven receptions for 39 yards with five carries for eight yards. Diehl has to be a dominant blocker in 2011 to get drafted.

Chad Diehl as he springs CJ Spiller for a long run and then James Davis for the TD.[youtube]NUeXvwtTpgE[/youtube]

Draft Scout Snapshot:

2010: Had two carries for four yards, four catches for 13 yards, and 13 yards on one kickoff return in 322 snaps over 13 games (10 starts)…credit with 34 knockdowns.

2009: Played in 14 games with three starts…covered four yards on three carries…caught two passes for 10 yards…had three kickoff returns on short kicks as opponents tried to avoid first-team All-America return specialist C.J. Spiller.

2008: Lead blocker for many first downs gained by James Davis and C.J. Spiller…had no carries but touched the ball three times; he had a six-yard catch against The Citadel, an 11-yard kickoff return against N.C. State, and a 13-yard kickoff return against #24 Florida State…had 18 knockdown blocks, including a season-high five against S.C. State…had four starts during the season.

2007: Received a medical redshirt after breaking his leg against Furman …played just eight snaps on offense in three games, but he was a valuable special teams player.

 

[JonJon]

I would love to have this guy in the 7th round. He is a powerful blocker and has paved the way for many first downs and big gains as a Clemson Tiger. With Fiammetta in question, Diehl would be the perfect fit for the Cowboys offense to pave the way for DeMarco Murray. Considering the importance of a true blocker for the Cowboys, I would go as high as round 6.

 

[realtick]

Whoa, nice block!

 

[Chocolate Lab]

Works for me.

 

[BAT]

Nice. Kid hits like a runaway 18 wheeler. But he may be too one dimensional for Garrett.

Another guy Cowboys should look at, even before the draft is Will Ta'ufo'ou. He is similar to Fiammetta in that he is smart and can can catch and run a little due to some athleticism. Just that Ta'ufo'ou is more stout as a blocker and runner.

I know that I am pushing this guy, but its a free look, and w/out burning a draft pick.

[YOUTUBE]2BTsjO9ASUE[/YOUTUBE]

Was a beat blocking for Marshawn Lynch, Forsett & Jahvid Best at Cal. Only 5'11 but a thick 255 now.

Also looked good in preseason w/Bears, but did make final cuts for Chicago. Not a surprise since Martz does not have much use for FB position.

 

[burmafrd]

As long as the guy we get is FIRST a cruncher as a lead blocker.

 

[JonJon]

As long as the guy we get is FIRST a cruncher as a lead blocker.

Just watch the video. He is a cruncher. He is in quite a few of the CJ Spiller highlights as well but some of those vids had language in them not suitable for this forum.