We’ve talked about PJ a number of times lately so I will keep this brief, but he had to be mentioned. It seems like he has just a couple of real college interests despite being one of the biggest breakout performers so far this season. There is little doubt in my mind that it stays this way, but for now he is definitely being a tad undervalued.

There aren’t many that are off to as hot of a start to 2024 as PJ. He has shown over the last 4 weeks how good his vision is, how hard he can run and an ability to maximize yardage. Just in week 4 he had 20 carries for 142 yards and 2 TDs, showing off a grind it out mentality he has and the stamina he has to be able to do that. He has been putting up some pretty amazing numbers all season long, and I expect this prolific run game to boost Paw Paw to some pretty great accomplishments this season, and it all starts with #25.

PJ has caught my attention a few times over the past couple of weeks. Now, it’s time to take a look at his week 1-3 tape. Most of the tape shows PJ running through gaping holes left by his offensive line, which is equal parts impressive for the line, and PJ for making the most of those carries. Take a look at the play at 0:52- PJ takes the ball on the pitch and very smartly cuts inside, cuts back outside, breaks a tackle, and turns upfield. In fact, the most impressive highlights on this tape are his pitch plays. On those plays, PJ proves to have good vision and sneaky-good open-field elusiveness. I’m looking forward to seeing PJ’s full-season highlight tape, and he might be in for a rankings boost.

PJ has been killing it so far on both sides of the ball! Just a few weeks ago, PJ totaled over 200 yards rushing, three touchdowns, and eight tackles. What I like most from the first two weeks of play is PJ’s power. He isn’t the fastest or most athletic, but he runs angry and works hard to maximize his opportunities. In addition, PJ has excellent vision for someone who doesn’t have that upper-end athleticism. It’s obvious when watching his tape that he’s a very experienced running back, and he could very well lead Paw Paw to a deep postseason run.

-201 Rushing yards, 3TDs+8 tackles

-Great 2 way performance

-Makes defenders miss both in the hole or outside in space

-Hits the hole with tremendous speed and turns on the jets at the 2nd level

-Very patient, able to follow his blockers and doesn’t bounce out too quickly

PJ is the epitome of a Power Back. In the Wing-T offense, PJ is a difficult runner to bring down. I like how PJ is able to power through arm tackles, keep running downhill, and patiently follow his blocks. Where he’s a great power back, he really lacks in speed and overall athletic ability. PJ can still be a college prospect, he’ll have to develop better speed first and foremost. Still, PJ earns a ranking and is a prospect to watch this Fall!