Running back Isaac Guerendo exploded in 2023 after transferring to Louisville from Wisconsin. Guerendo rushed for 810 yards and 11 touchdowns while averaging 6.1 yards per carry. Guerendo is a 220-pound back with outstanding speed for his size.
Guerendo recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his experiences at this year’s East-West Shrine Bowl, his decision to transfer, which NFL teams have shown interest in his services to date, and more.
JM: You had a massive campaign in 2023, totaling 810 rush yards and 11 touchdowns. Besides entering the transfer portal, what do you think led to the uptick in production?
Isaac Guerendo: I think for me, it was mostly about being patient. Obviously, the process of transferring isn’t an easy one. It was about making sure that I found the right place that really fit me and my needs. It was about giving myself the best chance to play at the next level.
JM: It obviously worked out for you, but how do you look back on the decision to transfer to Louisville from Wisconsin?
Isaac Guerendo: Looking back on it, I wouldn’t change a thing about it. I started the first half of the season at Louisville a little slower than I would have liked. I was still getting acclimated. I told myself to stay patient. My time will come. Having that mindset allowed me to be ready for my moment. When I started breaking out during the back half of the season, I was ready.
Looking at the offense I played in at Wisconsin, it was a run-heavy offense. Playing in a new scheme at Louisville, I was able to showcase more dimensions of my game. I was able to pass block a lot more frequently. I ran the ball and caught the ball out of the backfield. That was important for me as I got ready to make the transition to the next level.
JM: You formed quite the backfield tandem with Jawhar Jordan, who also had a big season. Talk to me about that relationship and your experience in a tandem backfield.
Isaac Guerendo: Jawhar and I were roommates. We lived together during my one season at Louisville. The bond that we built started there. Having that underlying connection honestly helped us develop chemistry on the field as well. We had more success because of it.
We wanted the utmost success for each other. It helped motivate our running backs room to be better. We have younger guys that are ready to come in now. Jawhar and I have a very strong connection. Seeing each other have success, we enjoyed it and it motivated us.
At the same time, we’re completely different backs. We complimented each other. That really helped our offense. It also made it more complicated for defenses. They couldn’t prepare for just one type of back. We have totally different play styles. I think that helped us a lot this season.
JM: You also attended this year's East-West Shrine Bowl. What did you prove to GMs and scouts?
Isaac Guerendo: I think the scouts had questions about my movement abilities. Throughout the drills, route-running, and stuff, I think I was able to showcase that it should be a non-concern. I move around well. Granted I’m 220 pounds, but I move well for my size.
JM: You probably met with every team in attendance, but which teams stood out to you? Any teams you had a great connection or vibe with?
Isaac Guerendo: I built a lot of strong connections. I’ve had several conversations going into the process. The San Francisco 49ers have been up there on my list. I spoke with the Eagles, Ravens, and Chiefs as well. We’ve had great conversations.
A lot of other meetings went well, too. Those just stuck out to me. I was fortunate enough to speak with Jonathan Taylor recently. He met with us at our facility. We have history because we played together at Wisconsin.
Taylor gave us advice on the pre-draft process. He said the Colts weren’t even in his top five teams. You never know what’s going to happen regardless of how your conversations and meetings go. The draft is unpredictable.
JM: What’s your favorite play to run in the playbook and why?
Isaac Guerendo: We had a lot of success running counter this season. It’s a fun play. It can hit in several different ways, and I think it did for us. We had so much success running it. The offensive line did a great job blocking counter up front.
Jack Plummer, when he needed to, he pulled it [the ball] if defensive linemen were crashing down. We had a lot of success running counter.
JM: I've heard you're going to light the NFL Combine on fire. Is 4.3 within the realm of possibility?
Isaac Guerendo: I think it is (laughs). We just have to wait to see what happens on Saturday [3/2]. That’s the only day that matters. I’m going to put my best foot forward. We’ll see where the chips fall.
JM: We’ve appreciated your time today. What is Isaac Guerendo going to offer the team that drafts him?
Isaac Guerendo: I have a terrific combination of size and speed. There are people out there that have it, but that combo is rare. I’m 220 pounds and move well for my size.
Another thing is this. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win. Whether that’s offense or special teams, I’m ready and able. I can be a two-or-four-phase guy on special teams too. It doesn’t matter to me. I’m willing to do anything.
