2023 NFL Draft: Jaguars Set To Visit With Running Back Tyjae Spears

With the 2023 NFL Draft rapidly approaching the Jacksonville Jaguars have expressed interest in a multitude of different prospects, with former Tulane running back Tyjae Spears being the latest name added to a lengthy list.

The Jaguars aren’t the only potential suitor for Spears' services, with the running back indicating to Ross Jackson of CCS Daily that the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, and one other team have expressed interest thus far.

Tulane RB Tyjae Spears says he had visits scheduled with the #Falcons and #Jaguars.

Will attend #Saints local day later as well. Mentioned that he has another team scheduled as well.
— Ross Jackson (@RossJacksonNOLA) March 16, 2023

After a torn ACL derailed his 2020 season, Spears led Tulane in rushing in both 2021 and 2022, with his major breakout coming in the latter, posting 1,581 rushing yards on 229 attempts (6.9ypc) and 19 touchdowns in 14 games played. The 21-year-old also showcased an improvement as a receiver out of the backfield, with 22 receptions for 256 yards and an additional two scores.

NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein offered a mostly positive analysis for the former Tulane Green Wave in his draft profile.

“Spears has the size of a change-of-pace back, but he needs to play with more consistent explosiveness, as he’s unlikely to offer the versatility typically expected from a player in that role,” Zierlein wrote. “He’s coming off an extremely productive and consistent season as Tulane’s RB1, though. He runs with good bend, average vision and the patience to use lead blockers to his advantage. Spears possesses modest creativity and power through the line of scrimmage but becomes more elusive once he’s up to the second level.”

Listed at 5’10” and 201 pounds, Spears is on the smaller side for the running back position but he makes up for it with a smooth change of direction and the ability to make sharp cuts once he gets through the first level of the defense. Additionally, Spears showcased his efficiency on the collegiate level, averaging seven yards per carry.

Running back depth is a premium in the NFL, and the mid-rounds of the NFL Draft serve as a cost-effective method to acquiring an impact contributor. Expect a great deal of interest in Spears as April inches closer.