This was supposed to (finally) be Kenyan Drake Szn. However, Kalen Ballage’s impressive camp and Drake’s foot injury are bringing stormy weather.
Even with Drake healthy, Ballage had already been taking first team reps. Now, with Drake uncertain for Week 1, Ballage has operated as the unquestioned starter.
And he’s done nothing but impress, especially with explosive scores throughout joint practices with the Bucs.
Just look at the praise pouring in from all the top Miami writers:
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ESPN’s Cameron Wolfe: For what’s it worth, I had two Bucs defenders ask me after practice today who No. 27 was. It’s Kalen Ballage. They said he gave them fits all week. The speed and acceleration surprised them.
- Sun Sentinel’s Omar Kelly: Top performers from Dolphins-Bucs scrimmage: 1. Kalen Ballage (70 yard TD run), 2. Xavien Howard (2 INTs), 3. Jerome Baker (most consistent linebacker
- Palm Beach Post’s Joe Schad: Kalen Ballage has looked like a monster today, with Kenyan Drake sidelined. Size, speed, power.
Granted, Ballage’s rookie game-tape doesn’t always seem to match this praise. He often looked lost or hesitant, and seems to be a little too fancy behind the line given his size.
But this is a size/speed nightmare with the athleticism to dominate. Ballage has risen to 93 on my latest Big Board as he continues strengthening his grip on this role.
The line remains atrocious, and the offense projects to be bottom-barrel. Still, any starting NFL back with a 100+ pick price tag is worth a stab.
Meanwhile, Drake has fallen to 87 overall, only slightly ahead of Ballage. I still firmly believe in the talent, and wouldn’t be shocked if he made some serious noise in a “James White” role within this Patriots-style attack. Drake’s always been deadly when given space, and can run the entire route tree. Still, he must now be treated as an upside stash.
