Chase Brown 2023 NFL Draft Projection: How high could the Illinois RB go?

NFL Combine
Running back Chase Brown of Illinois

The 2023 NFL draft features a strong and rich class of running backs, including Chase Brown. Along with being possible Rookie of the Year prospects, the top backs in the draft are also where teams could discover starters.

Before moving to Illinois in 2019, Brown spent one year with Western Michigan. He was one of the finest Canadians in college football in 2022, winning the Jon Cornish Award.

In 2022, Brown rose to prominence as one of the nation's most successful rushers. He also made an impression at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, demonstrating that he belongs among the top prospects.

With 4.43-second 40-yard sprint time and a 40-inch vertical leap, Brown is a freakishly athletic player for any size despite having a thick, compact build. Brown's first four years didn't see much action, but in 2022, he became an extremely high-volume rusher, accounting for almost half his career output.

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He's competent in the passing game, both as a pass blocker and receiver. Brown's quarterback would have a good target in him, and as a check-down alternative, he's a superb 'hands' receiver. He's also a committed blocker who's not afraid to risk injury while facing heavier defenders.

Chase Brown has undoubtedly made a name for himself, but he will likely find himself in a rotation of running backs and potentially a more vibrant prospect. Brown appears to be a mid-round choice.

Many observers rank Chase Brown as an early fourth-round potential. Only two running backs in this class, Jahmyr Gibbs of Alabama and Bijan Robinson of Texas, have been widely projected to go in the first round.

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Chase Brown college statistics and record

After running for 1,643 yards and ten touchdowns on 328 rushes in 12 starts, Brown played a significant role in Illinois' successful 2022 season, earning second-team AP All-American and all-conference accolades.

Before choosing to skip the team's bowl game to focus on getting ready for the draft, he also received 27 throws for 240 yards and three touchdowns.

Chase Brown established a school record by running for more than 100 yards in Illinois' first ten matches in 2022. He later added a second school record by running for more than 100 yards in 11 games. At an average of 136.9 yards per game in the season, he finished third in the country and second among the Big Ten.

Chase Brown averaged 5.3 yards per run throughout his college career. In four seasons, he accumulated 3,206 yards on 605 rushes and 18 TDs. Moreover, he added 48 receptions for 446 yards and three scores.

He leaves Illinois as the programme's second-leading rusher of all time. Brown is just behind Robert Holcombe, who, from 1994 to 1997, accumulating 4,105 yards.

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Edited by Bhargav
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