Evan Hull 2023 NFL Draft Profile
Yes, there is somehow another Northwestern product heading into the 2023 NFL Draft. We’ve already produced write ups on Skoronski and Adebawore. This time we’re going over running back Evan Hull. Is this someone you should keep your eye on heading into the NFL? Let’s run through the Evan Hull 2023 NFL Draft profile!
Early on, I wasn’t even sure if Hull was the best back at his own school. I thought there were plenty of moments when Cam Porter actually looked better. As the year went along, Hull established himself as the guy. If you’re looking for reasons to jump on the Hull bandwagon, his combine performance might be what you need. On every single rep at the Combine, Hull ran an extra 60 yards down the field to score. Maybe it’s nothing. Maybe it’s something.
I’ve grown on Hull but what’s the real ceiling here? I think that’s the real question. Hull can do a multitude of things but is he good at any of them? There is some shiftiness here. Hull can catch and move the sticks through the air. Still, as a pure runner, Hull left a lot on the table. The Northwestern product (with a first rounder at left tackle) rushed for 913 yards (4.1 per carry) and five touchdowns.
The teams that are in on Hull are likely doing so for his receiving ability. 2022 was a career year for Hull who posted 55 receptions for 546 yards and two scores. He’s really good in that area and could function as a third down role for someone. That’s where his value is going to be.
Hull was a former three-star guy but did contribute right away as a freshman which is a good sign. He also comes with some returner ability if you care about those things. The testing numbers are also a positive. You will take a 4.47 40 time out of him with a 37-inch vertical. You can tell by Hull’s make up that he’s going to be a worker for you.
At the end of the day, I still have a undrafted / 7th round grade on Evan Hull. He might be able to function as a pass catcher but will need a zone run scheme at the NFL level. Someone that can craft running lanes where Hull can make that one cut and get up the field. I just don’t see much of a ceiling here and feels eerily similar to Justin Jackson who came out of Northwestern years ago. A running back that has some talent in specific areas but is not someone that’s dynamic enough to take over a backfield for years to come.
