University of Iowa running back Shonn Greene will make the jump to the NFL following his junior campaign. The Hawkeyes' star earned the 2008 Doak Walker Award after rushing for more than 100 yards in every game, including two games with more than 200 yards.

The tough performances Greene displayed each week left him second in the nation in rushing yards with 1,850 and tied for fourth in touchdowns with 20. Greene missed the 2007 season as a result of academic issues but played consistently enough this past season to prove he is ready for the NFL.

Strengths

• Great size for his position at 5-foot-10 1/2, 227 pounds
• Powerful runner
• Has the ability to break any tackle
• Displays patience, follows his blockers

Weaknesses

• Slow for his position (4.65-second 40-yard dash)
• Has not established his receiving game
• Blocking skills have not been tested
• Questionable work ethic off the field

Expected draft placement

Greene's 2009 NFL Scouting Combine performance certainly did not help him, and with less teams looking for a running back in this year's draft, his stock has fallen. Greene will most likely be picked on the second day, as early as the Kansas City Chiefs in the beginning of the third round, and probably no later than the Cincinnati Bengals early in the fourth.

Greene is a powerful runner who may initially excel as a situational back following a speedy runner. If the San Diego Chargers cut running back LaDainian Tomlinson, this could be the perfect system for Greene. Other teams that could show interest include the Cleveland Browns, Philadelphia Eagles and Arizona Cardinals.