Vai Taua NFL Draft Overview

03/25/2011 - Nevada Pro day: Running back Vai Taua measured 5-10 and weighed 214. He improved upon his combine numbers in every category, except the vertical jump, which he stood on. He clocked 4.69 seconds and 4.76 in the 40-yard dash, had a 9-foot-8 broad jump, a 4.30-second short shuttle drill, a 7.05 3-cone clocking and he bench pressed 225 pounds 24 times. - Gil Brandt, NFL.com
Overview

Taua was a big part of the prosperity experienced by the Wolf Pack in recent years, rushing for at least 1,300 yards in each of the past three seasons, including 1,600 for 19 touchdowns as a senior. Taua clearly can handle all aspects of NFL feature back duty, and projects to become a quality part of a backfield rotation. While his upside is somewhat limited, durability and intangibles will likely impress.
Analysis

Positives: Three-year starter is an impressive prospect who combines power and quick feet. Runs low and finishes hard. Excellent vision to read blocks and pick the right hole, and can break the long run. Good acceleration and change of direction. Secures the ball extremely well, breaks some tackles and gets extra yards with defenders in tow. Career average over 6.0 yards per carry. Decent receiver out of the backfield. Gives effort as blocker. Extremely durable and productive back who projects well to the next level as a full feature back. Tough and hard working.

Negatives: While quick, fast and agile, lacks an elite top gear. Runs with power, but is not a true power "big back." Not an especially natural receiver. Blocking could use some fine tuning. Has a lot of miles on the tires at this point in career.

--Brad Noel