Tevin Coleman had to wait to show off his speed to NFL scouts.
The Indiana running back didn’t work out at the NFL Scouting Combine because of a broken toe. Coleman proved he was worth the wait by running a 4.35-second 40-yard dash at his pro day Wednesday.
The New England Patriots will meet with Coleman on Wednesday, DraftInsider.net’s Tony Pauline reported. Coleman, a projected second-round pick, also will meet with the Detroit Lions.
The 5-foot-11, 206-pound running back rushed for 2,036 yards on 270 carries with 15 touchdowns in 2014. He finished his three-year career with 452 carries for 3,219 yards with 28 touchdowns. He also caught 54 passes for 383 yards and returned 30 kicks for 690 yards with a touchdown.
The Patriots could view Coleman as a replacement for third-down back Shane Vereen, who left in free agency for the New York Giants. Coleman also proved he can run between the tackles at Indiana, and could be used as an early-down runner in the NFL.
The Patriots currently have running backs LeGarrette Blount, Jonas Gray, James White, Travaris Cadet, Brandon Bolden, Tyler Gaffney and Dion Lewis on their roster.
Thumbnail photo via Greg Bartram/USA TODAY Sports Images
