Devon Achane. His Elite Speed seduces us to overlook what truly makes him a special talent.



Speed does not make a great RB.

It is true, the cliche “speed kills” is very real. Skill position players that possess the gift of elite speed are far more likely to have successful careers than those who do not; the metrics are quite clear. However, there are other variables that play a key part in this objective conclusion. A few considerations must be examined to unpack this ultimate conclusion.

1.) Is speed the most important trait to a successful skilled player, Or does speed just supplement a more important skill set depending on position? Can track stars unquestionably be football players?

2.) Is our perception of speed based on a non contact, non padded sterile environment truly define a physical elite trait? Can we really measure speed of a skilled position player in a controlled uncontested environment?

Carefully considering those two examinations, I am of the opinion that speed is an auxiliary skill set, although incredibly necessary, ultimately useless if the skilled player is lacking in other more fundamental talents.

DEVON ACHANE “ELITE VISION!!”

Achane ran a 4.32 40, If his vision was calculated in relations to his 40 I would have him at 3.6; A ridiculous way to say, his vision is a far more impressive and impactful trait that will influence his performance. I first saw Achane in 2021 against Alabama, where he embarrassed the best Defense in College Football, and my gasping conclusion was a RB with breathtaking vision not speed. I warned my cousin of his greatness before TA&M played Miami, effusive in my praise and terrified of Achanes talent to defeat my beloved UM, AND ACHANE DID NOT DISAPPOINT! 

Transcendent Talent

There are certain physical talents that transcend their physical limitations. Tyreek Hill is one seminal example, yes his speed is pivotal to his success, but his game speed, his suddenness, his physicality, his change of directions, is what makes him a first ballot hall of famer. In the case of Achane, what will ultimately cement him as an elite talent at the next level is his once in a generation vision, a skill set that I feel is being tragically overlooked. 


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