2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Ahmad Hardy, RB, Missouri

June 3, 2026 - 23:44

The 2027 NFL Draft is still a ways off, but summer scouting reports are already rolling in for the next wave of college talent. This time, the spotlight falls on Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy, a player generating quiet buzz among evaluators who track the position early.

Hardy, who carries the ball for the Tigers, is not a household name yet, but his tape from last season and spring practices has caught the attention of scouts looking for a complete back. At 5-foot-11 and around 215 pounds, he has the frame to handle a heavy workload in the SEC. His running style is patient but decisive, showing good vision to find cutback lanes and the power to break arm tackles between the tackles.

What stands out most about Hardy is his balance. He rarely goes down on first contact and keeps his legs churning through traffic. In the passing game, he has reliable hands out of the backfield and shows willingness in pass protection, which will be crucial for his draft stock. His top-end speed is solid but not elite, which might limit his home-run potential at the next level.

The question marks revolve around his long speed and whether he can consistently create explosive plays against NFL-caliber defenses. He also needs to prove he can stay healthy over a full season as a featured back. For now, Hardy projects as a potential mid-round pick with the upside to become a productive rotational back. If he improves his burst and shows more big-play ability in 2026, his stock could climb significantly.