There’s far more to Henry Ruggs III than what his statistics will tell you on paper. The “third receiver” on the Alabama Crimson Tide is quite certainly one of the most intriguing prospects in the entire 2020 NFL Draft class. But is there more to his game than simply speed? Let’s dive in.
Speed from the Beginning
Like many other gifted NFL Draft prospects, Ruggs was a three-sport high school athlete that wowed in almost every physical endeavor. He casually posted a 10.42-second 100 meter dash. Then of course he followed that up with a 40-inch vertical. And by the time he was ready to head to college in 2017 Ruggs had worked his way up to the 11th most coveted receiver in the nation according to the 247Sports Composite Ranking.
Ruggs didn’t see a high volume of targets in his first year for Alabama, but he certainly made his presence felt right away. His first five collegiate receptions all went for touchdowns, and he averaged nearly 20 yards per reception on the year thanks to his absurd speed and elusive ability.
Year 2, Ruggs topped out at 24.3 miles per hour on his 81-yard touchdown against South Carolina.
Year 3, Ruggs posted a 4.25-second forty-yard dash at the Alabama junior combine.
“Okay, we get it. Ruggs is stupid fast and athletic. What else should we know?”
