One thing lacking from the 2014 Texas offense was explosive playmakers who could score from anywhere on the field. The Texas staff identified this need early and targeted Aledo (TX) speed demon Ryan Newsome to help fix the issue. After accumulating offers from several Power 5 schools including Tennessee, UCLA, Oklahoma, Florida State, and Ole Miss, Newsome narrowed down his options and initially chose UCLA before signing with the Longhorns on Wednesday. Newsome joins John Burt and DeAndre McNeal as signed receivers in this class.
Newsome got a big taste of success at the high school level, including back-to-back state championships. Newsome was a big part Aledo’s championships, playing wide receiver, quarterback, and running back during his time with the Bearcats. While Newsome is small in stature, his ability to take the top off of opposing defenses is coveted at the college level, especially in the Big 12.
Film Analysis
At 5’9, 175 pounds, Newsome doesn’t have a big frame and lacks the room to pack on more weight. Newsome looks slight on the field, but given his athletic skill, it’s clear that his size is the only thing working against him.
Newsome is a smooth athlete who runs crisp routes and understands how to accelerate in and out of breaks to create extra separation. His elite track speed is his greatest weapon, as Newsome shows the ability to get behind defenses and run away from defenders in the open field. Newsome is a good hands pass catcher who makes up for his lack of size with excellent body control and short bursts of quickness. He plays both outside receiver and slot on film but profiles more as a slot guy at the next level.
Newsome has experience taking handoffs from both the backfield and in motion and shows a good understanding of recognizing running lanes and one cut skills to get up field quickly. For his size, Newsome is actually a pretty physical player. Newsome is also experienced at running the wildcat and could be a weapon there in some offensive packages. Newsome’s athletic skill also lends itself to being a dynamic return man on both kicks and punts.
Final Verdict
While Newsome has the athletic ability of a potential big time playmaker with an NFL future, his size limits his ceiling. I think Newsome plays early at UT and makes his impact in a hybrid receiver/running back role. Even though it’s difficult to project his ultimate contribution, Newsome is a nice pickup for a team needing playmaking ability on offense.
