2024 FCS NFL Draft Scouting Report: Howard RB Ian Wheeler

We take an in-depth look at Howard running back Ian Wheeler, who is one of the top FCS prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft

Howard RB Ian Wheeler

Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 205 lbs
Career Statistics: 177 Attempts, 1,154 Rushing Yards, 14 Rushing TDs, 234 Receiving Yards, 1,322 Kick Return Yards, 3 Kick Return TDs
Accolades: 3X MEAC All-Conference selection (2021-23)

Howard RB Ian Wheeler (No. 27) / Howard Athletics

Background Report:

Ian Wheeler's journey from a standout performer at St. Thomas Catholic High School in Houston, Texas, to a key player at Howard showcases his multifaceted skill set and dedication to football. In high school, Wheeler impressed with over 1,300 rushing yards, 15 touchdowns, and significant contributions in receiving and returns, setting the stage for a promising collegiate career.

Wheeler committed to Howard in 2019 and primarily played special teams, totaling five tackles in ten games. In 2020, Wheeler played in only two games due to the COVID-shortened season. He totaled three carries, 15 yards, one rushing touchdown, and five kick returns for 139 yards. In 2021, Wheeler played in eight games, totaling 65 carries, 443 yards rushing, eight rushing touchdowns, five receptions, 31 yards receiving, 11 returns, 265 return yards, one touchdown, and four tackles. He was named to the 2021 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) All-Conference Second Team as a running back and All-MEAC Third Team as a return specialist.

In 2022, Wheeler totaled 57 carries, 316 yards rushing, three rushing touchdowns, nine receptions, 84 yards receiving, one touchdown, 19 returns, 424 return yards, one touchdown, and four tackles in 11 games. He was named an All-MEAC Second Team selection. In 2023, Wheeler totaled 52 carries, 380 yards rushing, two rushing touchdowns, nine receptions, 119 yards, 17 returns, 494 return yards, one touchdown, and seven tackles. He was an All-MEAC Second Team selection as a return specialist.

Scouting Report:

Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 205 pounds, Wheeler embodies the physicality and versatility desired in a modern running back. His strong, compact build enables him to maintain speed through cuts and evade defenders in open spaces, leaning towards a one-cut downhill running style that maximizes his vision and burst.

Wheeler's proficiency in pass protection and short-route running enhance his value as an every-down back. At the same time, his exceptional abilities as a return specialist and gunner on special teams highlight his versatility. His breakaway speed and agility in the open field make him a threat to score whenever he touches the ball. Wheeler's creative use of agility and vision in the open field adds a dynamic aspect to his play style.

Projection: Priority Free Agent (PFA)

Projected as a fringe NFL roster prospect, Ian Wheeler's versatility, speed, and contributions across multiple facets of the game position him as a valuable asset for teams seeking depth and flexibility in their backfield and special teams units.

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