Corey Kiner, RB, Cincinnati
Size:
Height: 5085
Weight: 208
Arm: 30 ½”
Hand: 7 ¾”
Accomplishments:
Four-star recruit
“Corey Kiner showcases a blend of footwork, balance, and speed that should allow him to challenge for snaps as a rotational ball-carrier at the next level.”
Strengths:
Vision
Footwork
Speed to outrun angles
Balance
Concerns:
Long speed
Minimal involvement in the passing game
Film Analysis:
Corey Kiner showcases a blend of footwork, balance, and speed that should allow him to challenge for snaps as a rotational ball-carrier at the next level. He aligns primarily behind the quarterback in pistol.
Kiner varies his tempo well at the mesh point and is quick to attack even the smallest of alleys. He’s a primary outside zone runner and the Bearcats offense prioritizes his speed in space. He has quick feet that correlate with good vision to locate and attack gaps. Kiner plays with an excellent, natural low center of gravity that allows him to quickly cut, stop/start, and redirect away from opponents. Despite his smaller stature, Kiner plays well behind his pads and isn’t shy in lowering his pads to gain extra yards.
In the open field, Kiner doesn't have the requisite speed to pull away from defenders, but what would be NFL-average burst is evident. Minimal wasted movement when granted with open grass—Kiner consistently attacks on a linear plane to gain every square inch of yardage. Does not have a deep repertoire of make-them-miss movements in space. Good ball security (one fumble on 192 carries in 2023).
Kiner’s workload primarily lies in his ability as a ball-carrier, not as a flex weapon. His route tree is extremely limited but could warrant increased looks on screens and wheel routes to utilize his speed/vision. He’s willing in pass pro and is a player who isn’t afraid to stick his face in the mud against larger, more physical defenders.
Concerns remain about his long speed, which will limit his big-play ability at the next level. Kiner has quick foot turnover to accelerate in tight areas, but elongating his stride to gain ground against more athletic defenders is not present. More involvement is also warranted in the passing game, which will further expand his profile and potential. Kiner has the skill set with the ball in his hands to further develop the role.
Overall, Kiner fits the mold of a change-of-pace ball-carrier with the experience of leading an RB room. At the next level, Kiner has the chance to challenge for snaps within a backfield that utilizes three RBs.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Role Specific Contributor
Written By: Ryan Fowler
