McNichols (shoulder), a 2017 fifth-round pick who's already drawing plenty of comparisons to current Bucs running back Doug Martin, is viewed as a three-down back by general manager Jason Licht, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports. "On film, he's got excellent hands, just rare hands," Licht said. "He's a very well-rounded guy, runs well -- he's got three-down value."
The rookie's stature and body type are certainly reminiscent of Martin, who also happens to be a fellow Boise State alumnus, and the similarities don't end there. McNichols racked up 3,205 yards and 44 touchdowns in three college seasons, coming impressively close to Martin's four-year totals (3,431 yards, 43 touchdowns). Where he was even more accomplished than his predecessor was through the air, with McNichols, a former receiver, compiling 103 catches for 1,089 yards and 11 touchdowns at Boise State. In addition to his standout offensive numbers, the Bucs were also impacted by the 21-year-old's stellar backfield blocking, with Licht praising him as "one of the best pass protectors in the draft" at running back. The torn labrum McNichols underwent surgery for following the Combine has him sidelined for this weekend's rookie mini-camp, but he's expecting to be ready for the start of training camp in late July.