Ulysses Bentley IV NFL Draft Scouting Report

Size:

Height: 5’10” | Weight: 200 lbs

Accomplishments:

First Team All-AAC (2020) • Second-Team All-AAC (2021) • 2020 Doak Walker Award Watch List (Nation’s Top RB)

“A creative runner with the vision and lateral agility to threaten for snaps within a multiple-personnel offensive structure.”

Strengths:

• Plus vision
• Lateral agility
• Ball security
• Hands in space

Concerns:

• Body armor to withstand heavy workload
• Breakaway speed
• Willingness in pass pro

In-play Film Analysis: 

Ulysses Bentley IV touts a few traits teams look for in a complementary-style ball-carrier. While asking him to carry the football 20 or more times a game at the next level would be wishful thinking, Bentley’s blend of patient footwork, creativity, and comfortability in space showcases a productive prospect. 

Primarily a zone runner and is tough to take down in space. Twitchy footwork and wiggle to make defenders miss both at the line of scrimmage and in open grass. Showcases excellent acceleration to attack vacant alleys and is always hunting for extra yards when met with contact. Ball security is not a concern (one fumble in 288 carries). Eyes constantly remain on a swivel to identify potential runways and he will punish undisciplined backside defenders. Can outrun corners that approach with incorrect pursuit angles to the perimeter, as well. In space, Bentley has experience running a variety of routes but is by no means a dynamic flex weapon at this point in his career. Top-end burst lacks when attempting to break away from opponents on isolated concepts. 

Concerns remain about his strength to withstand the increased level of physicality at the next level, and more opportunities are warranted on passing downs before he can be labeled a “third-down back.” Effort in pass pro must improve as well. Will jump to the outside if awarded the opportunity, which may be a source of trouble against more athletic defenses. 

Overall, Bentley is an exciting athlete whose vision and agility will present the foundation for success in the Ole Miss offense. 

Prospect Projection: Camp Invite — PUDFA

Written By: Ryan Fowler

Last Updated: June 9, 2023

Exposures: TCU (2021), Cincinnati (2021), UCF (2021)

Ulysses Bentley IV’s NFL Draft Scouting Report will be updated by Draft Network throughout the season. Add him to your big board here.