2016 Freshmen Scouting Report: Kareem Walker

To kick off the official start to the 2016 Michigan football fall camp, we’ve broken down each incoming freshmen football signee. That includes their highlights, scouting report, and our 2016 season prediction. 

Kareem Walker, Wayne (NJ) De Paul Catholic

  • Position: Running Back
  • Height/Weight: 6’1” 207lbs
  • Commitment Date: December 17th, 2015

Scouting Report: Walker is what a top rated running back prospect looks like. His mix of size, power, speed and athleticism are exceptional. He runs with power but can make multiple defenders miss with his ability to make quick cuts and burst through the move with speed. He’ll need some refining to get ready for the college level but, with some work, it shouldn’t be too long before he’s a pure #1 back.

True Freshmen Projection: Enrolling early at Michigan as the #1 running back commit in the class, expectations were and are very high for Walker. He showed flashes of his talent during the spring game but will need to continue to show those skills and hard work throughout camp. If he’s eligible to play, he should contribute. However, that looks to be the biggest question here after the whole team photo debacle.

ESPN Scouting Report: “Hits the hole quickly and in decisive manner. Runs with his eyes gearing down little to make a cutback or stretch run. Would benefit from a bit more patience at times as he can miss second level cutbacks.

Shows explosive in-line burst out of cuts to split the seam or to bounce and get the corner. Quick feet and lateral agility for a bigger back jump cutting on the move without losing much momentum. Can turn it on and really accelerate when he gets a crease up the seam.

He’s an agile back but wastes little time getting North. Strong downhill runner who breaks through most first contact with strong leg drive and consistent churning. Lower-half stays moving on contact. Very good balance and lean; difficult to knock off his feet. Does a good job warding off high tacklers with a stiff arm. Type of back that can wear down a defense with his aggressive running style.”

Garrett Fishaw