It was a tremendous career for former Notre Dame running back Audric Estime, developing into one of the best running backs in all of college football this past season. The once Michigan State commit was a pivotal part of the rushing attack as a sophomore in 2022, but was fully entrenched as the guy as a junior. Estime rushed for 1,341 yards and a program record 18 touchdowns in his final year.
Now Estime is ready for the next challenge. He is down in Indianapolis for the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, hoping to impress the NFL scouts, decision makers and coaches in attendance. Estime was very honest, and forward about what he’s trying to prove this week.
“I’m hoping to show the teams I’m very athletic,” Estime said. “I’m a big running back who can do it all. I can run routes. I’m quick but I’m also fast, have long speed. I’m a three down back and I’m looking to show that I'm the best running back in the draft.”
There were doubters around the Indiana Convention Center, asking the tough questions to the bruising runner. Estime, who is a tremendous downhill runner, has people questioning just how athletic he is overall. One media member asked about a lack of quickness and if he thought I was something that would hinder him.
He was asked about his quickness and Estime firmly disagreed with the premise.
“I would agree that I’m quick but I would also agree that I am very fast too,” Estime explained. “My film speaks for itself. I get the opportunity to get out there on Saturday to show what I can do. I look forward to it.”
A follow up was asked about which play from his three-year career best showcased his skill set. After thinking hard about it, Estime focused on one of the seemingly endless great runs he’s had over the last two years.
“Probably my Central Michigan run,” he said. “I showed good vision. I was able to read and find the right hole. I showed my athletic ability by hurdling someone and I showed my long speed to pull away from defenders too.”
Continuing with his skill set, Estime was also asked about a player that he models his game after. He gave an interesting; and lofty comparison.
“I’d say Adrian Peterson,” Estime explained. “The reason is because he’s a bigger guy, a physical guy and he runs like he has bills to pay, and that’s how I run. He’s also a guy who moves like a smaller back. He’s very light on his feet. He’s quick and fast. He can run routes. He can pass protect. He can do it all. That’s why I model my game after him.”
Running back testing kicks off on Saturday and Estime is itching to showcase just what type of athlete he is. The hierarchy of the running back position in the 2024 NFL Draft is still up for debate. Estime has a chance to prove doubters wrong and put himself firm in that contention.
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