Tim Hightower SELECTED BY: Arizona Cardinals Round 5(14)

SI Grade 3.26 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter awarded All-Conference honors the past two seasons. Posted a career-high 327/1924/20 on the ground as a senior while also adding 32/228/3 as a pass-catcher. Totaled 850 rushing yards and 34 receptions as a junior.

POSITIVES: Big, powerful interior ball-carrier who may get consideration at fullback. Punishing runner who drives forward for the tough yardage and delivers a lot of heavy blows to defenders. Patiently waits for blocks to develop, finds the running lanes, and keeps runs alive. Has a short burst. Picks up blocking assignments and strong at the point.

NEGATIVES: Displays minimal quickness and speed to his game. Does not possess soft or natural hands. Cannot quickly cut back against the grain and loses momentum when he must change direction.

ANALYSIS: Hightower comes off a terrific senior campaign and has put himself in a position to be drafted in the late rounds. Could find a home on a roster as a short-yardage specialist.

PROJECTION: Late Seventh Round