Though viewed as a surprise choice by many draft pundits and criticized by others, the Seattle Seahawks were thrilled to land running back Rashaad Penny with the No. 27 overall pick of last week’s NFL Draft.
The do-it-all back displayed an impressive blend of elusiveness and power during his senior season for San Diego State, rushing for over 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns while finishing fifth in Heisman Trophy balloting.
While Seattle clearly values his dynamic running style, the Seahawks also loved Penny as a prospect due to his experience playing in a pro-style offense similar to the one being installed by new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer.
Unlike most teams in college football, the Aztecs ran a lot of their plays with the quarterback under center instead of shotgun. They also frequently used a fullback in the I-formation as a lead blocker for Penny and utilized a plethora of two and three tight end formations.
System fit is a big deal for players entering the league and given Penny’s success in San Diego State’s scheme, he’s excited for the opportunity to compete in a similar offense with the Seahawks.
“I feel at home with Seattle. I really love their system,” Penny said Friday after the first day of rookie minicamp. “Definitely love their quarterback [Russell Wilson] and can’t wait to get started with him.”
During his press conference, Penny also didn’t shy from professing his love for having a fullback as support in the run game, indicating he “loves having someone behind him” much like Shaun Alexander and Marshawn Lynch previously did in Seattle.
While fans should pray the Seahawks line a fullback in front of Penny rather than behind him next season, his fit in Seattle’s system isn’t a laughing matter and the young back should be able to adapt to Schottenheimer’s offense seamlessly.
