Scouting Future Saints: Indiana Hoosiers running back Roman Hemby

Hemby transferred to the Indiana Hoosiers to conclude his collegiate career last season. He was a huge part of a Hoosiers offense that helped the team to an undefeated year and a national championship. Hemby led the Hoosiers with 1,120 rushing yards and scored 7 touchdowns. He was fourth in the Big Ten in rushing, earning 3rd Team all-conference recognition.

Strengths

• Hard charging and punishing downhill runner
• Decisive, one-cut runner
• Keeps speed into tacklers
• Gets through narrow lanes between the tackles
• Enough power for short yardage duties
• Maintains balance through contact
• Capable receiver

Weaknesses

• Must improve his vision and anticipation for inside lanes
• Not very elusive in open space
• Has just average burst to the second level
• Needs to improve his pass protection

Roman Hemby 2026 draft outlook

An consistently productive back throughout college, Hemby is viewed to have a limited ceiling and is considered an early to mid-Day 3 pick. While he isn't a major big-play threat, Hemby consistently picks up yards as a runner and adds value as a receiver. Those attributes could easily make him a dependable number two back and spot starter, especially in a zone blocking scheme like the Saints prefer.

There is a lot of doubt surrounding Alvin Kamara's future with the Saints beyond 2026. Backup Kendre Miller has only proven that he can't be depended on, while Audric Estime has very limited upside. Devin Neal, a sixth round choice in 2025, has flashed some promise but remains unproven. Don't be surprised if New Orleans adds another back at a similar spot in this year's draft, the area where Roman Hemby is projected to be selected.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Indiana Hoosiers RB Roman Hemby scouting report