- San Diego State RB Rashaad Penny has had to sit and watch the legendary college career of Donnel Pumphrey while picking up backup carries and kick return duties, but he did flash NFL ability in both aspects over the last three seasons. In 2016, Penny had 134 carries for 992 yards – 7.4 yards per carry – and he averaged 4.8 yards after contact per attempt and forced 31 missed tackles.
- Penny is the starting running back now for the Aztecs and he didn’t disappoint in his initial outing with 21 carries for 197 yards and two touchdowns against UC Davis. Penny’s tally included 95 yards after contact – 4.5 yards after contact per attempt – and eight missed tackles forced as a runner.
- Penny’s new role as the starting running back will likely limit his 2017 kick return touches and he only had one return opportunity against UC Davis for 18 yards. However, he’s a dangerous kick returner with a career kick return average of 29.2 yards and an impressive five career returns for touchdowns so expect some big returns if he gets the chance in 2017.
PFF Draft Watch: Rashaad Penny takes over at SDSU

LARAMIE, WY - DECEMBER 03: Rashaad Penny (20) of the San Diego State Aztecs celebrates a rushing touchdown against the Wyoming Cowboys during the second half of San Diego State's 27-24 win on Saturday, December 3, 2016. The Wyoming Cowboys hosted the San Diego State Aztecs in the Mountain West championship game. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
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