As with many college players these days, Memphis running back Mario Anderson Jr. had a well-traveled college career, especially in the last few years.
He spent four years at Division II Newberry College (playing three seasons after redshirting in 2019). Anderson then played one season each at South Carolina and Memphis.
Whether it was Division II, or playing in the SEC or AAC, Anderson produced at a high level. He wasn’t invited to the NFL Combine, so getting drafted could be difficult, but there are many things to like about Anderson.
Mario Anderson Jr. NFL Draft Projection
I project Anderson will be a high-priority free agent signing. He was projected as the 30th-best G5 prospect by HERO Sports. Anderson showed that he could play well at the highest levels, including the SEC in his one season with South Carolina, but his size and number of career carries has to be a concern.
New Customer Offers at BetMGM
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l Terms
What Is Mario Anderson Jr.’s 40 Time?
According to underdogdynasty.com, he ran the 40 in 4.58 seconds at Memphis’ Pro Day.
How Old Is Mario Anderson?
Anderson turned 24 on April 1.
Mario Anderson Jr.’s Height & Weight
Anderson is listed by Memphis as 5-foot-9 and 202 pounds.
Mario Anderson Jr.’s Stats & Highlights
After redshirting, Anderson played his first three seasons at Division II Newberry College where he rushed for 3,301 yards and 35 touchdowns on 513 carries. He earned first-team All-American honors in 2022 after rushing for a single-season record 1,560 yards. His 19 rushing touchdowns was the second-best single-season mark in school history.
He then transferred to South Carolina where he rushed for 707 yards and three scores on 143 carries while catching 22 passes for 153 yards and one touchdown.
Anderson completed his college career at Memphis this past season, where he rushed for 1,362 yards and 18 scores on 236 carries. He also caught 52 passes for 312 yards and three touchdowns.
This past season, he rushed for 100 or more yards on eight occasions. His best game came during a wild 52-44 win over North Texas. While North Texas wasn’t known for its defense, Anderson still rushed for 183 yards and four touchdowns on 22 carries. He also caught five passes for 27 yards.
In his last regular season game, Anderson rushed for 177 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries in a 34-24 win over Tulane. His final game came in Memphis’ 42-37 win over West Virginia in the Frisco Bowl. Anderson rushed for 70 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries and caught six passes for 22 yards and a score.
At South Carolina, he rushed for 100 yards in a game twice, including a 101-yard effort on 10 carries and one score during a 41-20 loss to Tennessee. In that game, he scored on a 75-yard touchdown run.
Mario Anderson Jr.’s NFL Comparison & 2025 NFL Draft Profile
Anderson compares to Chicago Bears running back D’Andre Swift, who is 5-foot-9 and 215 pounds. Swift might have better speed, but there are similarities. In addition, Swift has also been successful running between the tackles and has shown good toughness.
Swift is also a capable receiver, having averaged 47.4 receptions per year in his five NFL seasons.
As for Anderson, he has shown great toughness and durability. His 833 yards after contact in 2024 shows that he is a determined runner. His ability as a receiver was highlighted at Memphis, and it could help him find a role as a potential third-down back.
Via Pro Football Focus, here is where Anderson ranked among running backs with at least 190 carries in 2024:
- 10th in yards after contact (883)
- 6th in runs of 10-plus yards (43)
- 3rd with 52 receptions
- 6th in PFF’s grades for pass routes
- 8th in first downs gained (79)
Despite his size, Anderson is a hard runner who doesn’t mind rushing between the tackles.
This 47-yard touchdown run this past season against Tulane is a classic example of tough inside running before turning on the jets at the end.
At 24, his age could work against him since NFL teams would like to have a younger player, especially at running back.
That said, he is a player who should receive an NFL camp invite and could impress with his combination of running and receiving skills.
