Size-Strength-Speed
This is a tall, muscular prospect with wiry strength. Has good top-end speed for a tall, 200-pound back with his thickness. Lacks great edge speed and quickness but shows he can stretch outside and plant up field for good yardage. Shows good top-end speed in the second level and can accelerate and pull away with his long stride.
Vision/Patience
Cut back runner who looks to get north and has some wiggle through the hole. Does not always get through tight creases cleanly. We question if he can pick and slide effectively at the next level. Tends to run upright and is not overly smooth or fluid in and out of cuts. Still somewhat shifty through traffic with adequate jump-cut skill and can slip tackles.
Agility/Acceleration
Possesses a great burst and acceleration. At his best as a one-cut-and-go inside and outside runner; will exploit a vertical seam. More of a straight-line runner in the open field, gathers to cut and lacks sudden change-of-direction when defenders show up in his face. Lacks great edge speed and quickness but shows he can stretch outside and plant up field for good yardage.
Power/Balance
This is a back who is more productive with his shoulder pads squared and momentum going downhill. Leverage is good on contact and he retains balance well after collision, but he needs to be more consistent in this area. Will dip the shoulder and drive his legs behind his pads. Spins out of a lot of tackles and will not go down easily. Can break arm tackles and push the pile.
Bottom Line
While Mixon lacks elite open field speed and elusiveness, this is a well-rounded back. Has really polished hands and receiving skills -- one of his better assets. Comfortable in the slot and can create separation naturally. Shows strong blocking skill and is a three-down back who seems unselfish in doing whatever it takes to move the chains. Would be higher up the board with a bit more suddenness and lower running style. May get recruited as an athlete with his impressive measurables.
-ESPN Scouting Report