The 2024 NFL Draft features a solid class of running backs, and one name to keep an eye on as the weekend rolls around is Audric Estime. Standing at 5-foot-11 and 221 pounds, Estime fits the definition of a power back, often using his frame to mow down defenders. Estime was a two-year starter at Notre Dame and an AP second-team All-American in 2023. He rushed for 1,341 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2023, leading a strong Fighting Irish backfield group.
Audric Estime: Scouting Report
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein describes Estime as an early Day 3 pick, though there’s a chance he could go late on Day 2. Estime’s strengths would allow him to excel in a dual rushing attack at the next level, and we can expect to see him used in third down, goal line, and short-yardage situations. He is unafraid to involve himself in pass protection when not given the ball and has surprising downfield speed for his larger frame.
Thickly muscled runner capable of wearing out defenses through a heavier workload. There were times Estimé played too slowly when forced to process moving pieces up front, but he showed a greater willingness to cut it loose as the season progressed. He’s naturally powerful with adequate foot agility. Estimé doesn’t have the bend to be a one-cut runner but can make reactive cuts to sudden tacklers near the line of scrimmage. If he can hit the gas with a heavier foot, he’ll continue to break tackles and maximize yardage after contact. He’s a better weapon out of the backfield than he might get credit for being, and he could check into the league as part of a two-headed running attack with the ability to shine near the goal line.
The scariest part of Estimé’s game is his long speed. Though he can take a few steps to really get rolling, Estimé has serious home run speed. If he gets the angle on someone at the second or third level, he can absolutely take one all the way. That’s rare for a player his size.
Mock Draft landing spots
Some landing spots for Estime include the Cincinnati Bengals, who recently traded Joe Mixon away, or the Dallas Cowboys, who lost Tony Pollard in the offseason. Estime could also fit in the rotation of the Baltimore Ravens, who utilized multiple backs throughout their 2023 season.
Fantasy football implications
Estime has the potential to become a solid fantasy earner if the team that selects him uses him in goal-line situations. He is a solid pass-catcher, as well, but will likely be used in a rotational or two-back scheme that will limit his fantasy ceiling. He could make an immediate impact with the Cowboys or the Bengals in his rookie year, as they each recently lost their top backs from 2023. However, his carries will be limited as he shares backfield responsibilities with other RBs.