Ourlads' Profile:
2022 Guide: What Ourlads’ NFL Scouting Services said about CONNOR HEYWARD:
Michigan State, 5111 233 4.72. One-and-a-half year starter, Duluth, GA. Has played running back and transitioned to a blocking back role. The son of former NFL running back Craig ’Ironhead’ Heyward, and younger brother of Steelers’ defensive tackle, Cam Heyward. His versatility as a runner, blocker and catching out of the backfield will serve him well in his pursuit to make an NFL roster. Lacking the burst to be an elite tailback, but having the fluidity and athleticism to have garnered starts at tailback, he is not shy when it comes to contact. Has experience playing running back and most recently tight end, often moving pre-snap to more traditional fullback alignments. Spending the 2021 season as a tight end showed that he has natural hands, the ability to play through route disruptions and still has running back qualities with the ball in his hand after a catch. Has good acceleration and finishes runs after the catch with authority. Makes highlight reel worthy catches. Has good feel and vision as a move blocker. Limited as a tight end by lack of height. Has experience on kick return and on coverage teams. Runs routes at one speed, and lacks the ability to separate from defenders in and out of breaks. Ran routes in college with limited route depth. Build is top heavy, thin legs, and appears to be undersized in comparison to other draft worthy tight ends, it may well be a best fit for him as a move, or off the ball tight end, more in line with the traditional fullback, or more modern H-back as opposed to an in-line tight end. Will benefit from showing ability to be competent in both positions and as a cover guy on special teams.
2021 stats: 35-326, 9.3 ypr, 2 TD. OSR:12/33. Sixth/seventh round. (A-31 7/8, H-9 1/2, VJ-32.5, SS-DNP).