McFadden Stays Hot in Pro Day Spotlight

Randy's Radar

McFadden Stays Hot in Pro Day Spotlight

Published: Wed, March 26, 2008 - 2:05pm EST
Eric Allen

By Eric Allen

Allen is the senior managing editor of newyorkjets.com. He is in his seventh season with the Jets.


File Under: Mike Tannenbaum, Darren McFadden, Arkansas, pro day, Todd McShay, Adam Schefter

03/26 — After showcasing his sprinter speed in Indianapolis, Arkansas RB Darren McFadden worked out Tuesday for NFL personnel at his school’s pro day. He kept his 4.33 40 mark from the combine but added an equally impressive short-shuttle time of 4.05.

"At times, it can get nerve-racking because you know you’re under a close microscope. They're critiquing everything you do, every little footstep you take," McFadden said. "So it's something that when you go out there and work out for a team, you want to do the very best that you can. But if you go out there trying too hard, you may hurt yourself."

"Run DMC" was not pleased with his benchpress effort, totaling 13 reps of 225 pounds. But the 6’1”, 215-pounder performed well in drills and didn’t do any damage to his draft status. And according to ESPN’s Todd McShay, “It came as little surprise to see Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum leaving the field and having a lengthy discussion with McFadden.”

As a fan, you have to love Mr. T’s approach this off-season. He scored high marks in free agency and has been very involved in the draft process. But we caution you that McFadden isn’t the only college player (though he may indeed be the most heavily reported) that Tannenbaum has visited at a pro day or an individual workout.

The questions on McFadden center on a couple of off-the-field incidents. But McFadden, who averaged 1,738 yards on the ground the past two seasons, said he won’t be a problem child.

"People want to question my character, but people that know me know I'm a great kid," he said. "I put myself in bad situations a couple of times, and that's something that doesn't really concern me now that much, but it is a great motivator. It drives me to work harder."

Blessed with great vision and home run ability, McFadden did put the ball on the ground 15 times last season and five went for takeaways. But the scoreboard changer is not going to wait long to hear his name next month.

NFL.com contributor Adam Schefter has reported the Jets will host McFadden on April 16. The Green & White own the sixth overall selection in next month’s draft and D-Mac still could be on the board when the Jets go on the clock.

  4/5 : Rate this Post
27 ratings submitted

Fans Respond

Here's your chance to tell Randy what you think! Add a Comment | Show All (109)

Frank Said:

Mon, March 31, 2008 - 8:30am EST

"Drew, I know this is unconventional but I would have to consider picking Dorsey and try to trade him. I can't imagine that someone would not want to trade up for him. Broncos and Lions to name a few. Tangini should be exploring this scenerio right now and have contingency plans. This would be the worst case scenerio for us."

Offensive Comment?

RICHARD HOBBS Said:

Wed, April 2, 2008 - 12:36pm EST

"MR. MCFADDEN would be a excellent addition to our running game. at 6'1 he can see the whole field,his speed will determine which way he would change too hit the holes or out run defenders.he'll be our new and improve curtis martin,an explovise eric mcneil."

Offensive Comment?

peter russo Said:

Thu, April 17, 2008 - 5:30am EST

"Mr. T and coach mangini should do every thing possible to acquire Mc Fadden in the draft. How many years has it been since we built the team around a good young running back. Make mr Mc Fadden a JET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Offensive Comment?

Randy's RSS

The fastest way to get Randy's articles. Subscribe now.
Randy's Radar