Bengals showing interest in under-the-radar prospect
With the uncertain future of Joe Mixon, the Cincinnati Bengals may be in a situation where running back becomes a big priority in the NFL draft. Cincinnati is covering its bases in that department, and they're doing so with a player that's not generating a lot of buzz. Arizona State running back, Xazavian Valladay, will meet with […]
With the uncertain future of Joe Mixon, the Cincinnati Bengals may be in a situation where running back becomes a big priority in the NFL draft.
Cincinnati is covering its bases in that department, and they're doing so with a player that's not generating a lot of buzz. Arizona State running back, Xazavian Valladay, will meet with the Bengals on one of his top-30 visits.
Valladay started his collegiate career at Wyoming where he played for four seasons. His best outing came in 2019 when he was named first-team All-Mountain West after running for 1,265 yards and six touchdowns. Despite Wyoming's season being cut short the next year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Valladay ran for 550 yards in five games, earning first-team All-Mountain West honors again.
He didn't leave Wyoming quietly as Valladay ran for 1,063 yards and six touchdowns in 2021. Up next was Valladay's only season with the Sun Devils in 2022, and he shined.
Valladay led the Pac-12 with 16 rushing touchdowns and ran for 1,192 yards. He added a career-high 289 receiving yards and two scores as well.
For his efforts, Valladay was named a second-team All-Pac-12 performer, giving him four consecutive seasons with conference All-American honors between Wyoming and ASU. Also, Valladay finished his collegiate career with 21 games with over 100 yards (two with over 200) and averaged over five yards per carry each year.
Valladay posted a 4.46 in the 40-yard dash and a spectacular 40-inch vertical jump. He recorded a 10'3" in the broad jump and did 22 reps on the bench press (225 pounds). Valladay measured at 5'11" and 204 pounds.
Versatility and speed are the best attributes that Valladay possesses. He'll probably do best in a running scheme that attacks the edges.
The Bengals will have a chance to snag Valladay on Day 3 more than likely.
