In one of the last major holdouts of the 2021 football squad, Bam Knight let us in on what will ultimately determine his final decision.
From David Thompson and the Fayetteville Observer;
“It’s a difficult decision, it’s a life changing one. I have to wait for this [NFL Draft] report to make an educated decision.”
In short, Knight has been talking with scouts and NFL reps to see if he can find his way into the top-5 rounds of the NFL draft. That’s the biggest question; Can Knight go in top-5? If the report comes back favorable, he very well may be on his way out.
The Good
Knight has been the lead back for the Pack for the last three seasons. Floating each season around 750 yards rushing, Knight is third in the ACC in rushing since 2020. His speed matched with blocking abilities, gave him the edge each season.
The cherry on top, as of recently, is his explosive kick return ability. Back-to-back games against Wake Forest and Syracuse, saw Knight blow away defenders for kick return touchdowns.
Furthermore, Bam might be able to thank another former State back for his chances of getting into the top-5 rounds. Hines, in many ways, had similar attributes coming out of college. Strong runner and blocker, with the ability to make big plays in the return game. After being drafted in the fourth round by the Colts, Hines just signed a big ol’ extension this year. Could be a few teams that compare the two and roll the dice.
The Ehh
There is a very good chance no running backs are taken in the first round.
“But isn’t that a good thing?” Well…kinda…but…ehh…
This running back draft class is a whole lotta 3-5 round guys. When breakout stars like Iowa State’s Hall and Michigan State’s Walker are floating in and out of second round, that’s not good for Knight.
Teams could also be a little offput by the lack of media surrounding Knight, as silly as that sounds. Knight had top-5 RB status in June, before falling right back into the national pack. A thousand yard season with more than three touchdowns would have done wonders for his draft projections. There were moments this season, Knight wasn’t even the top guy in his own backfield. That hurts.
What’s Next
Knight did say that he plans on making an official announcement prior to the Holiday Bowl. He also stated, that might be skipping the Bowl to continue healing a nagging foot injury.
We love Knight, but we also have hesitation of him finding that top-five rounds that he is ultimately looking for. This may seem very selfish and biased, but one more year at State could do him wonders. Work on his receiving game further, while being the team’s true #1 back. Plus, if State (fingers crossed so tight they break) can have a magical season next year, only more spotlight to shine on the talented back.
Regardless, a big decision looms for Bam.
