When Cincinnati selected Ohio State running back Dan "Boom" Herron in the sixth round of the draft, it raised some eyebrows. Many fans were expecting the Bengals to draft a quicker, more explosive scatback-type runner to complement their feature back. Herron is a one-cut, downhill runner much like departed starter Cedric Benson.

But I think Herron could be a late-round steal based on his production in college. Although he was overlooked, he's an ideal fit for the team's run scheme.

The running back dropped in the draft because teams were more focused on his 40-time (4.6) at the combine and not enough on game speed or production. Then there was the six-game suspension for violation of NCAA rules, which may have scared some teams off.
Herron had to overcome some adversity his senior year due to the sports memorabilia scandal he was involved in that rocked Buckeye Nation and landed the program on probation.

"It was a lesson I definitely learned," Herron told Big C on Tuesday. "It was tough missing six games, but obviously I made a mistake at a young age and it came back to haunt me my last year. I actually learned so much from that situation. I feel like it has made me a better person and football player. Now before I make any decision I think twice. I think that situation will help me in life."

Herron could have easily blazed a trail for the NFL after his junior season when he rushed for 1,155 yards and 16 touchdowns. He most likely would have been an early-round pick in the 2011 draft.

But the running back returned to O-State for his senior year and accepted the six-game suspension. Herron understood the unwanted attention he brought not only to the university but himself, and wanted to face it head on.

"I knew I did something wrong and I wasn't going to up and leave the school like that," he said. "I had the opportunity to turn pro but knew I made a mistake. I wanted to show I was man enough to stay there and take my punishment. I'm happy I stayed and I’m a better person for it."

Despite the player's lapse in judgment that led to his suspension, teammate never questioned his character. Herron was elected team captain by his teammates for the 2011 season after playing in only seven games. I was told by one former Buckeye teammate he is the type of guy you root for.

The 5-foot-10, 210-pound Herron is a good all-around back and gritty in short-yard situations. Herron may not have elite speed, but he does have the ability to break long runs. One of his longest runs was an 89-yard scamper off left tackle against Michigan. He's a great between-the-tackles runner with good vision to find the cutback lanes. He also shows a willingness to block, picking up the blitz.

The Bengals will hold a three-day rookie minicamp beginning Friday, May 11. Herron appeared excited and ready to compete during our conversation.

"I'm honored the Bengals made me their sixth-round pick," he said. "Being an Ohio kid and having the opportunity to play in my home state means a lot to me and my family. I’m thrilled and ready to get to Cincinnati and get to work."