03/08/2012 - Clemson Pro Day: FB Chad Diehl (6-2, 260) took a hard blow to the head during Senior Bowl practice and missed that all-star game, then got a double dose of disappointment when he didn't receive an invitation to the NFL Combine. So Clemson's Pro Day was a chance for him to shine, and the burly back came through with a 31-inch vertical jump, a 4.9 40 and 28 reps of 225 pounds -- numbers good enough to reaffirm his status as one of the top five fullbacks available in the draft. He may be hurt by the fact that few NFL teams use traditional fullbacks, particularly those with limited pass-catching skills, but his ability to overpower defenders at the point of attack is unquestioned. Diehl may be a late-round pick or may have to go the free-agent route, but is bound to end up sticking on a roster somewhere after proving his worth as a special teams player. - NFLDraftScout.com
Diehl is a classic sledgehammer fullback. He handles any blocking assignment he's handed from blitz pickup to straight-ahead drive blocking, and he almost always gets the job done with authority. Diehl also played on punt and kick coverages, kickoff returns, and won Clemson's Hustle and Dedication awards. He's a high-effort player and delivers high-impact blocks but won't likely carve a niche in an NFL offense beyond blowing open running lanes and giving up his body in short-yardage on occasion. The need for such role players has thinned, but many teams will be eager to acquire his services in the middle of the draft's third day.
Analysis
Strengths: Has a stout physique and excels at blocking. Accelerates off the snap, stays low, bends knees, sinks hips, punches well, and almost always hits the mark. Has good power and will drive defenders back. Has a comfortable set in pass protection and knows how to use hands effectively.
Weaknesses: Doesn't offer much more than blocking. Is not a great athlete. Not fast and doesn't turn that well either. Was not given much opportunity to do anything except block in college.
NFL Comparison: Quinn Johnson - Tennessee Titans
--Brad Noel
