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2012 Draft
WIDE RECEIVERS

Justin Blackmon 6007 207 Oklahoma St
Combine: Forty: DNP | BP: 14 | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Justin Blackmon widely was criticized when he chose not to run the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis because of a hamstring injury.Blackmon’s decision placed more importance on Oklahoma State’s pro day, and he certainly did not disappoint scouts when he ran Friday

NFL Network draft expert Mike Mayock reported Blackmon ran unofficial times of 4.48 and 4.49 seconds at his pro day, putting to rest any concern that he’d post a slow time in the 40. (The St. Louis Post-Dispatch later reported, via Twitter, that Blackmon’s official 40 time was 4.46). It’s a pretty good time is what it is. There’s no question about that. I think people thought he’d run in the low 4.5s.

One of the evaluators who was there said Blackmon was very explosive and very powerful. He reminds you a great deal of Michael Irvin with one exception: His hands are good but not great like Irvin’s.

The conditions were ideal. In addition to his 40 times, Blackmon had a 10-foot-3 broad jump, 35-inch vertical jump, 4.43-second short shuttle, 7.22 three-cone drill. The cones were taller than usual and the surface was slippery, however, so don’t take his three-cone time at face value.

BRS (Gollin) - The 4.46 forty at his pro day fills in the final question whether a guy that big was fast enough. Answer: "Yup!"

Pro Football Draft Guide – A potential #1 receiver who should have no problem earning the trust of his QB. Certainly All Pro potential

From nfl.com - Junior entry who twice won the Biletnikoff Award. Has elite ability to contribute early in the NFL/should be selected within the top 15 picks and start immediately.

Nice frame / actually seems taller than he is. Elite jumping ability and can be a jump-ball, red zone threat despite being barely over 6 feet. Has Anquan Boldin-type ability executing drive and underneath routes /can excel from any spot on the field. Severe mismatch working out of the slot.  Extremely polished in his technique in-phase, and incredible at varying his speed to keep defenders off balance. Slow off the line but releases with ease by utilizing both his strength and jab steps. A natural receiver who understands how to read coverages and sit down in zones. A very aggressive catcher who literally attacks the ball when it is within his large catching radius, / usse his frame to box out defenders. Naturally adjusts to poorly thrown balls on the run and can bail quarterbacks out of poorly thrown balls.

Not as quick off the ball as his athletic ability suggests. Good top-end speed and acceleration in the open field, but struggles to burst in short areas to separate. Has such an elongated stride that he struggles running sharp routes. Playmaker at point-of and after the catch is his strong point; he doesn't get himself open through route running. An all-or-nothing blocker who can't recover once he whiffs. (will need a lot of work on his technique here). His long stride could be his biggest problem at the next level.

ESPN (Scouts Inc.) - Not a blazer but a strong route runner who flashes some savvy. Good at setting up defenders within stem to gain initial leverage. Doesn't explode out of breaks with lateral cuts but has enough body control to create separation. Will shake head and shoulder at the top of stem to freeze defenders. Sells double moves well. Can uncover against zone coverage with a natural feel for soft spots. Good at coming back down the chute with hooks, curls etc.

Ball skills is an area of strength. Has strong and natural mitts that swallow the ball. Aggressive / attacks the ball. Can snatch the ball out of the air without breaking stride. Excellent body control / makes catch outside his frame look effortless. Uses strength and frame well to shield defenders from the ball.

Enough top-end speed to get behind coverage. Tracks the deep ball extremely well and has the size, strength and leaping ability to win one-on-one down field battles. Not overly elusive after the catch but a strong runner who can break tackles and pick up extra yards. Uses an effective straight-arm.

Plays with good intensity and is fearless working the middle of the field. Above-average field and sideline awareness. Fights for yards after the catch. Has the frame and strength to be an effective downfield blocker, but does not always give great effort here.

Michael Floyd 6025 220 Notre Dame
Combine: Forty: 4.47 | BP: 16| VJ: 36.5 | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

13. Cardinals - Top of Board When Picked: Ingram, DeCastro, Reiff, Floyd

BRS (Gollin) - Post-Draft: Adding a a #2 WR to take the pressure off Larry Fitzgerald was considered one of two or three major offseason needs (LT and Pass Rusher were the others). Fitz lobbied hard for Floyd just prior to the draft (and the Cardinal brass apparently listened). The book on Floyd prior to the Combine was that he was a big possession-type receiver with some "issues" in his background and not a lot of speed or explosion. His 4.47 Combine forty-time and workout performance put most of that to rest. According to one of the NFLN former-GM's: What he brings to the table is (a) a reliable counter-balance to Fitzgerald, (b) second fade-route threat in the end-zone, (c) a ramped-up overall passing-game threat in tandem with Fitz and Ryan Williams (& I'd add Houser) and, ladies he (4) can block in the run game.

That's the Kool-Aid take on Floyd. He was #11 on my Board so getting him at #13 represented good value. But I had someconcerns: (1) I rated Ingram (7th on my board), DeCastro (9th) and Reiff (#10) a bit higher overall. (2) Supply & Demand: I felt the draft was deep in receivers and we could get a good one later on; whereas there were only two fail-safe LT and one Hutchison-caliber OG in the draft and we'd better get one early, (3) the DUI & other issues and (4) Although I saw Floyd run the 4.47 and watched his workouts on tape, I didn't feel his explosiveness and his ability to catch away from his body matched the superlatives thrown around  by the TV announcers.

That's what makes horse-races. It's water over the dam now. We have to hope that the Cardinal front office saw things a bit differently than I did and rated him highest on their board at #13. One thing about WR's - they suck up all the TV camera footage, and it will be easy to see pretty early whether Floyd fills the bill. One things for sure - If Michael is all everyone says he is, our offense should show tangible improvement.

Pro Day - Floyd made himself some money Tuesday. He stood on the 4.47-second 40-yard dash that he ran at the NFL Scouting Combine, but he did the short shuttle (4.5 seconds) and three-cone (7.16 seconds) at the pro day.

He is very fluid and runs good routes. He’s a big target, has excellent speed and caught the ball extremely well. He likely got a boost from having former Irish QB Jimmy Clausen throwing the ball to him, because the two are comfortable with each other.

He really moved himself up the charts Tuesday, and again, his performance should at least have people putting him side-by-side with Blackmon; as I wrote, personally, I would rank Floyd higher. Floyd is a little faster and a little taller, and he’s been pretty productive in college. I think he should be taken with the 11th or 12th pick in the draft.

Floyd is expected to be one of the top receivers taken in the draft this April. He’s got a lot of upside. He’s big and fast, and he’s caught a lot of passes. He was suspended in 2011 after being charged with a DUI, but otherwise he’s what you want in a receiver: he’s big and tall and he’s got really good hands. He should be taken somewhere between No. 10 and No. 17 in the first round. “I think it went well,” Floyd told NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock after the workout. “I performed well, you know, I caught all my balls, ran good routes, was explosive off the ball, (and did) what I think teams wanted to see.”

Floyd faces potential questions about his character. Mayock asked Floyd how he handles the interview process. “I come from the gut,” Floyd said. “I tell them from my heart that, you know, what I did was a mistake, and I learned from it, and I moved on.” Floyd said at the next level, teams will expect him to carry himself appropriately “Now that I’m going to the NFL,” Floyd said, “you’ve got to act like a professional; you can’t be like a kid out there, just doing whatever you want to do; you’ve got to act like a professional.”

According to Gil Brandt, "After the excellent workout he had at Notre Dame’s pro day Tuesday, I feel he conceivably could be drafted before fellow blue-chip receiver prospect Justin Blackmon."

Mayock -  Pre-Senior Bowl Position Rank: 2.

BRS (Gollin) - The key issue with big receivers is their straight ahead speed. Floyd's 4.47 forty at the Combine was a pleasant surprise and figures to move him up the charts somewhere in the first round.

Pro Football Draft Guide – A notch below Justin Blackmon as an athlete but his skill-set is similar. His size and physical nature should allow him to have a lengthy NFL career as a reliable starter.

From nfl.com - Game changer with the size, aggressiveness and game experience to make a difference early in his NFL career. An extremely productive threat both deep and in possession as well as a physical blocker and a reliable third-down playmaker. His on-field maturity, physical nature and ability to make the big catch will outshine some off-field mishaps.  Projects to be one of the top receivers off the board.

A polished receiver who can release and burst off the LOS despite his frame. A solid route runner who will consistently make the big catch. Excellent athlete who is strong and contributes in the run game with his physicality on the edge. Tough across the middle, He’ll make the tough catch and get up-field. Floyd brings a #1 receiver presence to the next level . Explosiveness off the line and big frame make him a presence felt by defenses. As a blocker, he’ll do more than just mirror defenders, (he’ll come down LOS and crack-back LB’s. A red zone threat at any level .

Does not have game-breaking speed deep. Consistency a concern. Prior injuries and various off-field issues. could raise a red flag.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Better than average initial quickness for size. Uses feet and long arms to beat the press. Reaches top speed quicker than most tall receivers but lacks ideal smoothness or suddenness with routes. Uses his rangy body effectively to shield defenders. Also uses length to create separation at the last second (even when blanketed). But gets away with some sloppy routes due to his athletic superiority. May struggle to adjust at the next level, especially running intermediate routes. Gears down too much and lacks great burst out of his cuts. Still must become savvier as a route runner and show greater attention to detail.

Has big hands that swallow the ball. Occasionally will let the ball get into his body. Very good at adjusting to balls thrown behind him or over his shoulder. Consistently will catch ball thrown over his head.

Mismatch for some DB's because of his size. Won’t run by most cover corners in the pros but he has enough speed to challenge vertically and the length/hand-eye coordination to come down with the jump ball. Not very elusive and won’t consistency make the first defender miss. Has good vision after the catch and is a physical runner who’ll break some attempted arm tackles.

Not afraid to go over the middle but clearly more comfortable working outside the hashes. Adequate effort as a blocker. Leaves his feet a bit too frequently. Lacks great lower body strength and struggles to sustain blocks at times but is typically in good position and can use his long arms and solid upper body strength to shield the DB sufficiently. Will get lazy at times and go for the one handed catch when he clearly should use both hands.

Stephen Hill    6-3¾    209   Georgia Tech
Combine: Forty: 4.36  | BP: 14 | VJ: 39.5 | BJ: 133 | 3C: 6.88 | 20Sh: 4.48 | 60Sh: 11.43 |


Pro Day (Brandt) -
Continued his meteoric rise up the draft boards with a fantastic workout. Hill (6-foot-3 3/4, 209 pounds) lit it up, as he went through drills in front of 20 teams. Falcons head coach Mike Smith was there along with Bears coach Lovie Smith and Vikings coach Leslie Frazier. Bills GM Buddy Nix was there to get a look at Hill, too. When you have three head coaches and a GM show up to a pro day, usually there’s consideration for a first-round pick. I would say Hill has gone from somebody who was not very well known to a first-round player. Stood on all of his combine numbers, and caught balls from QB Eric Ward, who used to play for the University of Richmond and was brought in for the school’s pro day. It was a smart move by them to bring in Ward. I didn’t include Hill on my first “Hot 100″ list, but he rose to No. 44 on my second list and he was No. 32 on my third. The best thing Hill did was work out with former NFL WR Terance Mathis at the IMG Academy. Mathis taught Hill how to run routes and took him from a person who was a straight-line streak WR to a guy who can really throttle down and catch the ball.

BRS (Gollin) - Another blazer who happens to be really big. His diving catch on a deep ball at the Combine convinced me he had the ball skills to go with his straight ahead speed. And his vertical and broad jump scores suggest elite explosiveness.

Pro Football Draft Guide – A bit of a project, but if he can learn some of the position’s nuances, especially at the line, he has a chance to become a good X-receiver.

 

Nick Toon 6017 215 Wisconsin

Combine: Forty: 4.54 | BP: 18 | VJ: 37.5 | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - He helped himself at the pro day. He ran 4.41 and 4.38 in the 40, but didn’t do the short shuttle and the jumps because he had been hurt. He did work out in positional drills and was very impressive.

Gollin (BRS) - Pro day forty time is super-fast for a big wideout. Only other negative is that he rounds off his cuts (question remains - is his problem mainly due to technique problems which can be coached out of him? Or does he lack explosion and COD athleticism)? If it's the former, I'd be inclined to upgrade him to #2 or #3 ranked wideout.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment -"Toon is a one-speed guy. He has no second gear. He's not quick or fast. He will block but he won't get dirty doing it. He takes plays off when his number is (not?) called. I did not like what I saw at all."

Pro Football Draft Guide   He’ll never be a game-breaker but is an extremely safe pick. Should be a reliable #2 receiver for a decade.

From nfl.com - Size is the name of his game. Al Toon’s kid. Might not run past many NFL defensive backs, but his overall awareness at the position, understanding of how to play to his strengths, and effectiveness in the run game make him a solid prospect. Should be an NFL mainstay after being selected somewhere in the second round.

Understands how to run strong routes, using his size to make a play on the ball and move the chains. Not only is he an excellent mid-range receiver, he can also gain position on defenders downfield and make deep ball plays. Willing and definitely strong enough to be involved as a blocker in the run game. A red zone threat and go-to receiver on intermediate routes. Not the fastest receiver  and it can show when he attempts to stretch the field. Has a tough time separating.. Ankle mobility is a small concern.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Rounded off too many cuts and showed average burst out of breaks but a savvy and physical route runner. Set up breaks with footwork/head fakes and got defensive backs off balance on occasion. Sold initial route on double moves. Used hands well when corners tried to muscle him out of routes or slow him down at the line of scrimmage. Zone buster who can locate and settled into seams.

Snatches ball with hands and doesn't have to break stride to bring it in. Above average sideline awareness /makes an effort to get both feet in bounds. Ball can drift away in space / vulnerable to trailing defender stripping it or ripping it out.

Lacks a second gear when tracking the ball but is a long strider with enough speed to make the occasional play downfield. Strong runner who uses effective stiff arm and can pick up some yards after the catch but doesn't have breakaway speed and didn't shake many defenders in space.

Not afraid to work the middle Hard-nosed runner who can lower shoulder and pick up yards after contact. Not overpowering but an effective blocker who can lock up and sustain or cut the legs out from defenders. Doesn't run every route with the same sense of urgency.

Alshon Jeffery 6027 216 South Carolina (Arms: 33")
Combine: Did not work out. Forty: 4.48* | BP: DNP | VJ: 36½ | BJ: 10-2 | 3C: 6.71 | 20Sh: 4.17| 60Sh: DNP |

Mayock Pre-Senior Bowl Position Rank: 4.

Pro Day - Jeffery, who did not do anything at the NFL Scouting Combine, had a very good pro day. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.48 and 4.49 seconds. He recorded a 36-1/2-inch vertical, a 10-foot-2 broad jump, a 4.17-second short shuttle and a 6.71-second three-cone. His arms measure 33-inches long, but he didn’t lift because of a strained right shoulder. He caught the ball well. There had been some questions about his explosiveness, but he did well with all facets of getting open. Tennessee worked him out on Friday; the Giants met with him Monday, represented by receivers coach Kevin M. Gilbride. He’ll visit with the Vikings on Tuesday and the Jets on Wednesday.

Jeffery likely made himself a potential first-round pick with this workout. He could be selected anywhere from No. 25 to No. 40. He was highly touted, then his stock fell, but now it’s way up again. He’s like a yo-yo.

BRS (Gollin) - As with Floyd, everyone wants to know how fast the big kid can run. Since he didn't compete at the Combine, the verdict is out on Jeffery's straight ahead speed.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment -"He'll get overdrafted. I don't like to grade the program, but I worry how well Steve Spurrier's offense translates to the NFL. There  are a lot of rough edges to his game I do not like...What do you do with him? I remember Mike Williams making great one-handed catches in the back of the end-zone too. He's big and strong, but he does not play hard and is not going to get off the line (in the NFL).

"Pro Football Draft Guide – Looked every bit like a Top 10 pick as a sophomore before QB problems hit South Carolina. We see him as a borderline #1 WR in the NFL.

From nfl.com - Averaged over a touchdown a game as an underclassman. An explosive jumper with an impressive frame and projects as an immediate red zone threat in the NFL. Long strider who is methodical in his route running but has just average speed. Relies on technicality and variations in his speed to keep receivers off balance.

Lanky/ uses his size Has a massive pair of hands to go with his long arms and is an elite receiver once the ball is in the air. He has the anticipation and will jump to high -point the ball over nearly any corner he faces. Off the LOS, he is non-explosive but uses his hands and a subtle jab-step to keep defenders at bay. Works into his route and gets back on top of his defender after beating a jam. Has a natural feel for turning to catch the ball in-phase and will be a prime candidate for back shoulder fades in the red zone.

An elite jump-ball prospect, but his value will be heavily determined how he times in the forty - he does not stand out as fast on tape and is such a long strider that sometimes looks like he’s in slow motion. Must become more comfortable in his routes to work the corner and truly gain separation. Development of his route running skills will be the key to his success. A bit uncoordinated early on in his career.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Below average initial burst off the line / takes a bit too long to reach full speed. Gets away with some sloppy route running. Must improve his hand usage and overall technique working against press coverage. But he's a smooth-moving glider with a natural feel for finding soft spots in zone. Nice job with the tempo of his routes. Will occasionally lull DBs to sleep with sluggish first move before throwing it into high gear. Lacks great top-end speed but does show some burst out of his breaks and good closing burst when the ball is in the air. Very effective using his massive frame to post-up DB's and frequently separates at the last second.

Has an enormous pass-catching radius. Long arms and big, strong hands. Can pluck on the run. Engulfs the football. Good natural hand-eye coordination and focus. Not fazed by defenders around him and makes tough catches in traffic look easy. One of the better WRs in the country at tracking the ball vertically. Gets his head turned around quickly, locates the ball and attacks it at its highest point. Very good balance and body control for a big WR. Consistently will catch balls thrown outside his frame. Very good at catching over his head.

Similar to Jonathan Baldwin, but a notch below in initial burst and top-end speed. Will not outrun many DB's one-on-one, but he's a smooth moving athlete with rare size, which makes him a matchup nightmare on the perimeter. Wins a high percentage of jump balls. Has a knack for making big plays on fade routes. Huge redzone threat. Lacks good initial burst after the catch and not very elusive in space. Builds speed as he goes and can be tough to bring down once he gets a head of steam. Much bigger vertical threat than he a run-after-catch weapon.

Clutch performer who plays big in big games. Has no fear going over the middle / consistently secures the football despite taking big hits after the catch. Tall with long arms and good strength for the position. Not an overly physical blocker / could do a better job sustaining at times. But more often than not he gets in solid position and is able to wall off. Goes through the motions a little bit when he's a deco. Could do a better job of selling fake screens and running backside routes.

Kendall Wright 5102 196 Baylor
Combine: Forty: 4.61 | BP: DNP | VJ: 38.5 | BJ: 121 | 3C: 6.93 | 20Sh: 4.18 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - He ran the 40 in 4.44 and 4.41 seconds. On the run that he finished in 4.41, Wright rolled a little on the start, and he probably should have been made to begin again, but he wasn’t. He has very good speed, and is very strong. Wright will run as fast with a uniform on as he does in shorts. He made two really unbelievable catches Wednesday. He’s got very small hands; they measure just 8 3/8 inches, which usually wouldn’t lend themselves to making spectacular catches. But he did on Wednesday. With his performance, and the fact he ran the 40 in around 4.4 seconds, I think Wright will likely be taken toward the end of the first round, somewhere around the 25th overall pick. Also, everybody “oohed and ahhed” at some of the catches that Wright made. The thing about him is, you can’t throw the ball over his head on deep routes. But he’s a very, very athletic guy who’s very strong.

BRS (Gollin) - Smallish wideout with blazer hype who didn't run that fast at the Combine but redeeemed himself on his Pro Day.. Sudden in and out of cuts. Nice fit for Cards in slot if he can run better (or at least demonstrate on tape that he plays faster) than he times.

Pro Football Draft Guide – Simply electrifying. May be limited to a part-time role as a rookie, but as he learns the subtleties of the position, there are Pro Bowls in his future.

From nfl.com - RG III's go-to option. Seeing Wright work himself wide open for a long touchdown seemed to be a common sight this season. Undersized but has the speed to take the top off of NFL defenses. Athletic ability is his greatest strength, / uses strong, polished technique to make up for his size deficiencies on the field. Has the wiggle and subsequent burst to make a move on a defender and get up field. Ball skills are on par with his overall skills / uses his footwork to run strong routes . A smart, competitive player who runs each route to win, (& he usually does). Will have to improve his blocking and overall strength but has the potential to be a first day pick and make an instant impact.

Knows how to use his athletic ability to his advantage and is a dynamic player. Despite his size, he is an effective and even lethal threat at the LOS because he can get a quick step on a corner and be open from the get-off. His quickness off the LOS makes up for his size - he can get a free release and get open in his route. A serious deep threat with also the the quickness and ball skills to be effective in the short-to-intermediate game. As a route runner, he has an understanding of how to lean on a defender to gain separation and stem his routes to set-up his quick step to separate. Understands the strong suits of his game and plays to them. With the ball in his hands he can create plays for himself and use vision and body control to weave up field and bounce off would-be tacklers. Uncanny separating from defenders and gettim open across the fieldNot much of a factor as a run blocker. Eases up when the ball is not coming his way - must be involved in the game to be a factor at all. How well he run NFL routes will determine this prospect's status.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Explosive quick-twitch athlete who needs a lot of polish as a route runner. Quick initial burst / can instantly eat up defenders cushion. But still needs to learn the craft of working within stem. Is not great at gaining initial leverage on defenders. Will struggle to finish routes at the top of stem. Will peek before breaks and round off too many cuts. Has good suddenness and an explosive burst coming out of cuts to create separation. Must get stronger / can get bumped off of routes. But generally does a nice job of avoiding contact and can separate working vs. zone coverage.

Will pull in tough catch outside of frame but could be more consistent. Limited size provides QBs with smaller strike zone. Hands are adequate at best. Will  body-snatch and have an occasional drop.

Quick starter with track-star vertical speed, but inconsistent tracking and adjusting to the deep ball. Quick and elusive after the catch. Will dance and make too many lateral cuts and must utilize his speed and get vertical more effectively.

Plays with an edge. Willing to work the middle of the field. Good at securing the ball in traffic. Effective cut blocker but appears disinterested.

Chris Givens 5111 198 Wake Forest
Combine: Forty: 4.41 | BP: 19 | VJ: 33.5 | BJ: 118 | 3C: 6.97 | 20Sh: 4.23 | 60Sh: DNP |

Mayock Pre-Senior Bowl Position Rank: 5.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment -"Givens can fly. I think he can do it all - play inside or outside. He's quick and fast. Once he runs in the 4.3's, he'll turn a lot of heads."

Pro Football Draft Guide   His floor is “solid #3 receiver”, but at the rate he’s developing, he has the chance to be a well-rounded playmaker who can play the outside as well.

From nfl.com - Early-entry junior with adequate size - a blazing straight-line runner who looks similar to Jeremy Maclin. Relies heavily on his speed and can take a speed-out and cut up field to daylight. A polished player who could be selected late in the first round.

An elite deep threat receiver who’sfluid and quick off the ball. Can eat up a defensive backs cushion in a few steps and then accelerate in a very controlled, explosive motion. Adjusts well to balls in front or behind him / can make all the necessary catches at full speed. Has obvious field awareness and routinely can get behind corners in Cover 2 before throttling down for a quick back-shoulder throw before a safety can get there. Will get jammed on occasion but usually wins with a jab-step and speed. Excellent footwork at full speed to change directions or drag his feet along the sideline.

Often gets caught looking over his shoulder and will get alligator arms across the middle. Tough but far from physical. Little effort as a run-blocker and only capable of being a decoy or running off his man.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Footwork is a bit inconsistent / rounds off cuts but he is an above average overall runner who can stick foot in the ground and change directions quickly. Sets up breaks with quick feet and upper body fakes. Average burst out of breaks. Recognizing and working open over the middle vs. underneath zone coverage is above average.

Not a natural pass catcher and body- catches too many passes. Some problems fielding fast balls, especially thrown outside frame. Will extend arms and pluck the ball out of the air. Opens up and adjusts to passes thrown outside frame. Tracks the deep ball well and can make over the shoulder catches. Above average focus and sideline awareness. "

Not a burner, but fast enough to make plays downfield. High school running back / more of a threat after the catch. Makes the first defender miss more times than not and reaches top-end speed quickly. While he may not have breakaway speed, he has another gear and can rip off chunks of yards when gets a seam.

Doesn't appear afraid to work the middle. Displays some fight after catch but will also duck out of bounds to avoid contact. Willing to get in the way as a blocker on screens but not aggressive and gives marginal effort as a run blocker. Lingering questions about work ethic at practice and off the field.

Mohammad Sanu 6014 211 Rutgers

Combine: Forty: 4.67 | BP: 19 | VJ: 36.0| BJ: 126 | 3C: 6.88 | 20Sh: 4.22 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day Sanu was projected as a possible first-round pick by some but hurt his stock by running a 4.67-second 40-yard dash. At his pro day, he did everything over again, running the 40 in 4.55 and 4.54 seconds. He also had a 4.21-second short shuttle. He was worked out by one of the Saints scouts. Scouts said he had a very good workout, catching the ball well. He just doesn’t look like he gets a lot of separation when he’s going for it. He ran the first 10 yards of the 40 in 1.6 seconds.

BRS (Gollin) - Did not time well at Combine but redeemed himself somewhat on his Pro Day by running in the mid-4.5's..

PFW Scout's Candid Comment -"Sanu made some big plays in the past, but I didn't see them this year. I expected better. I thought he was just a guy."

Pro Football Draft Guide   Lack of big play ability limits his upside, but he has a chance to be a solid #2 and a security-blanket type pass-catcher.

From nfl.com - Has good size and should make a lot of plays within a West Coast offense. Separates well and excels in the short to intermediate passing game. An ideal receiver for a timing-based, pass-often offense. Polished all-around player.

Excellent when working drive routes and being tasked with working across the field to read coverages and sit down in the holes of zones. Natural at shielding himself from defenders and giving the quarterback a clear throwing lane. Reliable hands-catcher who is very technical at the top of his routes and when competing with corners can give himself just enough space to secure the catch. A throwback receiver who sees only the ball when going across the middle. Fearless in all aspects of his game.

 Virtually non-existent in the deep passing game. Slow off the LOS and lacks the speed to get behind NFL corners. Can get lazy in and out of his breaks downfield /almost loses interest in competing once the route gets deeper than 7 to 10 yards. Not explosive with the ball in his hands / he simply gets what he can after the catch.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Locates and exploits seams working against zone looks. Physical route runner who uses frame to shield defenders from the ball/ Quick for size and above average upside as a route runner. But not explosive enough to get away with shoddy and inconsistent footwork. High cut / rounds off too many cuts.

Doesn't track the deep ball well and has to break stride to locate it. Body catches too many passes but also can extend arms and snatch the ball out of the air without breaking stride on crossing routes. Strong hands / has made impressive fingertip catches. Can catch passes thrown above shoulders,  absorb contact and hold on.

Long strider with enough speed to stretch the field but not explosive enough to recover when he gets slowed down / release is an issue. Wasted too much motion getting off the line at times. Elusiveness just average but has the vision and enough burst to produce after the catch.

Called for the ball when got open. Not afraid to work middle of field. Runs hard and fights for yards after contact. Will turn into defender after turnover. Inconsistent effort as a blocker and not as effective as size would suggest.

Brian Quick 6034 220 Appalachian State

Combine: Forty: 4.55 | BP: 14 | VJ: 34.0 | BJ: 119 | 3C: 7.10 | 20Sh: 4.15 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Quick has generated quite a buzz in the pre-draft process, and he kept his momentum going with a solid showing at the school’s pro day on March 19. Twenty six teams, the most ever to attend an Appalachian State pro day according to the school, showed up to watch Quick and his teammates.

Quick ran a 4.59-second 40-yard dash into the wind and a 4.53 40 with the wind at his back. But the most important mark was his 1.47-second 10-yard split, which shows he has great initial burst. His best football could be ahead of him, as he played only one year in high school but was a great basketball player. He also showed in position drills that he is just as fast on the field as he is on paper.

Pro Football Draft Guide   An exciting developmental prospect who could be molded into a very good #2 receiver

From nfl.com - Very uncommon size / surprises scouts with his ability to run. Former basketball player and high jumper who understands how to run routes and get open. Will set up defenders at his level and snap off routes effectively to make a play with his strong hands. Can make big plays in traffic and uses his big frame to be a large target & make the play on the ball to finish jump balls and deep passes. Has displayed enough of the size and athletic ability to make plays that all translate well to the next level. Highest pick from Appalachian State in years and likely to be taken early in the second round.

Size is his greatest asset. Raw but a potential game changer at the next level. Reliable hands-catcher with the catching-radius and grip-strength to bring down any ball thrown near him. A great option in the short game - understands how to use his frame to shield out smaller defenders. As a deep threat he lacks the speed to be a go-to option, but once the ball is in the air is where his raw athleticism and to out-leap defenders is evident.

Inexperienced – both an attribute and a possible Achilles heel. Won’t run by big-time corners, but other than this aspect of his game, Quick done everything he can to show scouts that his game translates nicely to the NFL. Sometimes has trouble adjusting to poorly thrown balls but normally will make the play using his strong hands. Greatest indication of Quick's ability to handle the transition will be tested early in camp.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Smooth route runner for bigger frame. Good at gaining leverage and using tempo with routes within stem. Effective head and shoulder fakes at the top of stem. Surprisingly makes an easy transition out of lateral cuts with adequate 'pop' to create separation. Adept at wading through traffic vs. zone coverage. Also has a natural feel for soft spots. Can get stronger with release and may have some issues getting off of a jam against more physical DB's at the next level.

Gifted athlete with excellent body control /can make highlight reel catch. But  hands are a bit inconsistent. Will have an occasional drop and/or double catch with routine throws. Uses big frame to shield defenders and can climb the ladder to win one-on-one battles. "

Has enough apparent initial quickness and top-end speed to get behind coverage. Also tracks the deep ball extremely well and will make tough over the shoulder catch. Lacks elusiveness in the open field but has enough top-end speed to create yards if given a seam.

Willing to work the middle of the field. Tough enough to secure the ball in traffic while absorbing big hit. Plays with an edge and unafraid to mix it up.. Solid effort as run blocker but needs work with angles and technique.

Jarius Wright 5095 182 4.42 Arkansas

Combine: Forty: 4.42 | BP: 11 | VJ: 38.0 | BJ: 120 | 3C: 6.93 | 20Sh: 4.03 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Football Draft Guide – Quick twitch-athlete with great instincts and a refined approach; should produce immediately

From nfl.com - Undersized but fast. Not used much as a returner, but his ball handling, quickness and long speed could project him there -  has fourth-round value working out of the slot at the next level.

Very quick/ understands how to work out of the slot and sit down in the holes of zone defenses. Tough in traffic and a deep threat who runs good routes. Understands the angling aspect of route running and how to create separation and be a wide open option for his quarterback. Quick hands to snag the ball in short throws and the ability to reel it in deep. A possible value-added guy at the return positions although not a factor in college. Undersized/ though he gives great effort in the run game, he has struggled to sustain blocks. Utilizes quick feet off the line but can get jammed up by bigger corners if lined up directly.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Uses initial burst to drive corners back on hitch routes and can separate from man coverage on drag routes. Quick enough to shake press coverage. Excels at locating soft spots both downfield and underneath working against zone looks. Raw route runner who doesn't always make crisp cuts at the top of stem. Will have tougher time separating on outs and ins at the next level.

Plucks ball out of air. Above average focus when the ball is in the air. Above average body control / can adjust to passes thrown behind him. Absorbs contact and holds onto the ball. Can get hands under and scoops shoe top passes (though inconsistent in this area). Not going to win many jump balls.

Not a prototypical NFL deep threat. Lacks the size to consistently win one-on-one downfield but fast enough to take the top of the coverage. Above average instincts when facing the LOS and can spin away from closing defenders.  Can make first defender miss after the catch. Doesn't look as explosive as timed speed suggesst and doesn't look fast enough to run away from NFL pursuit.

No hesitation working the middle. Fights for yards after contact and uses a stiff arm. Can get pushed around by bigger corners but is a physical route runner for size and won't back down. Tough and willing to get in the way but size hinders ability to sustain as a blocker.

Dwight Jones 6032 230 North Carolina
Combine: Forty: 4.55 | BP: 14 | VJ: 33 | BJ: 109 | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Football Draft Guide   Late bloomer with the physical attributes to be a gamebreaker. A risk who will need a coach who will keep on him..

From nfl.com - Classic underweight, tall receiver with decent agility but is more of a crafty pass catcher who makes plays happen once the ball is thrown to him. Borderline speed. A bit thin entering the draft, but more weight might slow him down. Has 3rd/4th round value.

Has size for the next level and has used it well throughout his career. Gets off the line quickly and can avoid the jam, using his long limbs to his advantage. A natural hands-catcher who will go through the middle and catch the ball, / has deceptive speed to get deep behind defenses. No burner, but uses his savvy and jumping skills to go up and get the ball. Understands how to run routes and can get in and out of his breaks at the top of routes despite his height.

Skinny and can struggle at times going across the middle. Will alligator arm the ball at times when peeking at safeties coming down on him. Will disappear at times during games or for entire games. Nonexistent blocker at his current weight. He hasn't displayed much effort in contributing to the run game up to this point.

TJ Graham    5113    188    North Carolina St.

Combine: Forty: 4.41 | BP: 8 | VJ: 33.5 | BJ: 120 | 3C: 6.77 | 20Sh: 4.18 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Had a 34-inch vertical and 9-foot-11-inch broad jump. Had a decent workout — nothing flashy.

Pro Football Draft Guide   No write up

From nfl.com - Lacks heft, but is extremely fast and that is where his value lies. Still a developing route runner (still  knocked as a "track guy" and not reliable across the middle). Forty  time will be important throughout pro days and the combine- could be selected as high as the third round.

A  burner who can take the top off of defenses at the next level. Can beat corners in man coverage and use his hands to stack on top of them and continue to gain separation. Very good at looking the ball into his hands when running deeps and looks natural catching. Quick off the line / uses his feet well to avoid and stem corners. Can vary his speeds well to keep corners off balance.

A deep speed guy but that's about it. Still developing as a route runner and won't go across the middle for balls. Undersized and not very strong, and it shows across the middle or when he attempts to block. A willing blocker and going across the middle but simply lacks the strength to be effective.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Quick footed/ can shake press coverage but not a physical route runner. Can get run off routes by bigger corners. Locates soft spots in underneath zone coverage. Works back to the ball when quarterback gets flushed out of the pocket. Room for improvement as a route runner, but can tempo breaks and has the burst to separate from underneath man coverage with improved footwork. Could do a better job of splitting deep middle working against zone looks. "

Can extend arms and pluck the ball out of the air. Above average body control / appears comfortable adjusting to back -shoulder passes. Opens hips and adjusts to passes thrown behind him. Gets both feet down quickly when making catches along the sideline.

Not a prototypical deep threat in terms of size but can still take the top off of the coverage. Timed speed shows up on film / has the second gear to run by corners when he gets a clean release. Always a threat to go the distance after the catch/ Can run away from pursuit. Makes defenders miss with lateral quickness and can ruin pursuit angles by changing speeds. Dangerous kickoff and punt return man.

Not afraid to work the deep middle. Above average effort after the catch / picks up more yards than expected after contact considering his size. Uses an effective stiff arm and has above average balance. Gets into adequate initial position and gives average effort as a blocker.

Reuben Randall 6027 210 LSU

Combine: Forty: 4.55| BP: 15 | VJ: 31.0 | BJ: 121 | 3C: 6.99 | 20Sh: 4.36 | 60Sh: 11.78 |

Pro Day - Randall ran 4.43 and 4.45 40-yard dashes and a a 4.56 short shuttle, and posted a 31-inch vertical jump and a 10-1 broad. He caught about five passes before pulling his right hamstring on a dig route, but he looked very good in limited time.

PFW Scout's Candid Comment -"Randle is big and can run. He's not ready for prime time yet, but someone is going to get enamored with how he looks and moves. He is a talent.

Pro Football Draft Guide – Primarily a possession receiver but he does have some big play ability in his game. A borderline #1 receiver.

From nfl.com - Early-entry junior and a late riser. Burst onto the scene as the go-to option and was limited by inconsistent quarterback play all year. An impressive athlete who stands to significantly increase his value.

A tall, well put together receiver with good balance throughout his route who’ll lean on his defender to create separation at the breakoff point. Still learning how to work routes downfield and is a strong catcher of both high and low balls. Good flexibility in his routes and really made progress in overall field awareness and in diagnosing coverages to find spots in zones.

But still developing many of his skills - more of a "betting on the come" prospect. Looked uncomfortable running some routes within his route tree and isn't at a point where he is actively thinking about how to sell his corner on every play. Will take his eye off the ball across the middle and can be inconsistent with his physicality. Not a real sudden, explosive mover and could be blanketed early in his career.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Uses size  to beat press, but must be more consistent in that area. Natural size and long strides to help separate. Some savvy working against zone. But lacks explosive initial burst off the line and takes too many steps getting in and out of breaks. Will struggle to separate with quickness alone. Will always need to be a savvy route runner and make good use of size at the next level. Good at leaning into DBs and muscling them around (in and out of breaks) on short-to-intermediate routes. But can be a sloppy and undisciplined route runner and gets lazy when working backside.

Very big, strong hands and long arms. Confident pass catcher. Can pluck away from frame and make tough catches over his head. Consistently can snatch on run. Outstanding body control to adjust.

Long strider with deceptive top-end speed. Could get over-the-top of man-coverage frequently in college but will struggle to do so in the NFL. Still has some vertical potential because of his long strides, size and hand-eye coordination. Not overly elusive after the catch but a bit more dangerous than anticipated. Agile feet for size. Can spin out of tackles. Can sometimes make multiple defenders miss. More aggressive and physical runner than expected.

Inconsistent effort as a blocker. Has the size and enough strength to wall defenders off if he gets into position and works at it. More physical as a route runner than he is as a blocker. Competitive when the ball is in his hands.

Juren Criner 6024 224 Arizona
Combine: Forty: 4.68 | BP: 17 | VJ: 38.0 | BJ: 117 | 3C: 7.15| 20Sh:4.30 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day — Criner ran the 40-yard dash in 4.60 and 4.62 seconds. If Criner had more room to run, he probably would have lowered his speed, likely finishing it in about 4.57 or 4.56 seconds. He registered a 38-1/2 inch vertical and a 9-foot-1 broad jump. He is described as being similar to Ravens WR Anquan Boldin. Criner was an outstanding AAU basketball player. He has rare ability as far as catching passes is concerned. He has great body control and does a good job catching the ball in traffic. He definitely improved his status on Monday. There are so many receivers that will be available in the draft, but I think Criner is probably a second-round pick.

Pro Football Draft Guide   A solid possession receiver prospect with a little bit of big play ability. He could potentially develop into a #2.

From nfl.com - Should be one of the first five receivers taken off the board. Raw but inconsistent talent who uses his athleticism and leaping ability to simply make more plays than the man across from him. Effectively uses his great size when going for jump balls or when "boxing out" to catch balls in the short game. Athletic after the catch/can make things happen early in a play and has the burst to finish it. Must show up every Sunday, but his talent alone legitimizes him as a prospect.

Lanky but athletic - uses his jumping ability and large catch radius to his advantage going up for jump balls. Runs crisp routes and is explosive off the LOS. Gets a clean release with ease by using quickness and power, and understands how to stem his routes to keep cornerbacks off him. Deceptively agile for such a tall player and a reliable option in short areas. Uses his lateral agility to make defenders miss and get up the field for yards after the catch. A natural vs. zone defenses /finds his openings and quickly works up field. Emerged as Arizona’s go-to receiver and he the confidence to match up against the best.

But tends to disappear from games if not heavily involved in the action. Routes can look sloppy. Strong blocker but his willingness can slip away at times. Durability a concern.

Jeff Fuller 6034 223 Texas A&M
Combine: Forty: DNP | BP: 17 | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day — He’s going to work out again March 28 with Tannehill. He ran 4.66 and 4.65 40s, had a 36-inch vertical jump, 4.33 short shuttle and a 7.10 three-cone drill. He did positional workouts, but the feeling is he might be better adding weight and becoming a TE rather than being a WR.

Pro Football Draft Guide   A solid bet to have a lengthy NFL career, but as a role player. His upside is as a #2.

From nfl.com - Ryan Tannehill’s go-to option Tall, well-built receiver who makes good plays across the field despite being a slow-mover unable to get away from defenders. Lacks ability to run after the catch or block in the run game, and he can struggle when trying to get off the line. Had an injury-filled senior year (hamstring). Serious hitches in his game, but a reliable option once he is in-route and the ball is coming his way.

Uses his frame well when catching the ball short. Solid hands / will catch the ball with defenders draped over him. Can separate from defenders at times but is more of a "go get the ball" type who struggles to get open. Amazing ability to adjust and torque his body to get the ball. An instinctive player and natural athlete, but more of a "pass catcher" than he is a technical wideout.

Big, wide and athletic receiver who uses his frame to his advantage in-phase but can struggle at the line of scrimmage. Lacks strength and will get jammed by smaller corners. Weak and hesitant as a run blocker. Does not play to his frame physically and will have to improve there.

Devier Posey 6015 211 Ohio State
Combine: Forty: 4.50 | BP: 14 | VJ: 36.5 | BJ: 123 | 3C: 7.03 | 20Sh: 4.15 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Caught the ball well in position drills. He’s just about what everyone thought he is: a mid-round type of guy.

Pro Football Draft Guide   Posey’s ability to stretch a defense gives him a chance to be a contributor but he’s not well-rounded enough to be more than a #3.

From nfl.com - Savvy route runner who’s overcome various obstacles. Athletic and understands how to run routes and get open. Can be counted on to secure the catch when he is not draped by a defender. Suspended twice (booster violations), but showed in his brief recent  time on the field why he has third-round value in this year's draft.

He can struggle off the line but generally understands how to stem his routes to set up a defender and then use his suddenness to change direction. Will burst and stick his foot in the ground at the top of routes to gain separation. Superb at adjusting his body once the ball is thrown to secure the catch but a bit shaky going across the middle and facing a big hit. Effective after the catch with the ball in his hands and can make a small move to get up field. Very polished as a route runner and overall receiver.

But he’ll get caught peeking at incoming safeties when going across the middle. A tough blocker but not tough on routes across the middle. Can seem uninvolved in the physical aspect of the game or when the play is not coming toward him.

Ryan Broyles 5105 192 Oklahoma
Combine: Forty: DNP| BP: 21 | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Broyles did not work out, as he is still rehabbing from a knee injury that ended his season last year. He will hold an on-campus workout in Norman, Okla., on April 12. Broyles tore an anterior cruciate ligament in a win against Texas A&M He finished his Oklahoma career No. 2 all-time in receiving yards (4,586) in FBS history.Brandt  thinks he will probably go in the second round. Broyles has great ability, but he isn’t very big. Nobody knows for sure how fast he is. I think he’s also got return ability.

Pro Football Draft Guide   A “luxury pick” since he won’t help in 2012. But a majority of ACL injuries heal and Broyles should be an impact slot receiver starting in 2013.

From nfl.com - “Polished” is his watchword. Though undersized, he understands route concepts (how to get open and secure the ball). Ball skills and route-running ability alone could allow him to start very early at the next level.. His feel for space on the field and overall ability to understand defenses boost his productivity immensely considering his size challenges. Will have to (& can) work out of the slot at the next level. Before tearing his ACL in November, Broyles was a second-round talent. The impact of the injury makes that projection a bit iffy.

Despite his stature, Broyles gets off the LOS well when given a free release or he gets to use a jab step. Pro-ready from a standpoint of overall football savvy and athleticism. Although he can make catches across the middle, he is most effective in space or being covered man-to-man, (he displays an uncanny ability to get open). An incredible catcher who can torque his body in any way necessary to secure balls thrown near him. Uses his body control to turn and secure the ball. Despite his small frame, he can turn and run through arm tackles at times. A great option as a short-receiver who can utilize his quickness and agility to separate and catch.

Undersized and struggles catching in space. If CB’s get their hands on him at the line, he may find it difficult to break away and get into his route. The torn ACL may limit his (already average) straight-line speed and raise concerns about his durability

Marquis Maze 5077 186 Alabama
Combine: Forty: 4.51 | BP: DNP | VJ: 33.5 | BJ: 112 | 3C: DNP | 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - He stood on everything that he did at the combine. He had an individual workout that just looked OK. He’s just a guy that’s good at things but not great at anything

Pro Football Draft Guide   May never be better than ordinary as a slot receiver, but his appeal as a return specialist will guarantee  him a roster spot for a while

From nfl.com - An early entry (Why)? But he has done one thing consistently -- make plays at big times. Uses his agility and quickness to make people miss anywhere on the field, with the explosiveness to take the play the distance. Far from an imposing presence, though, and lacks the build and definition that many quick, slot receivers usually possess. Doesn't run crisp routes and can be shaky catching the ball at times, but his overall skill-set and return ability make him a third-round value.

A naturally athletic mover & a crafty route runner out of the slot. A threat to score every time he catches the ball. Productive on screens and projects as a reliable option as a returner. A bit sloppy in his routes, but understands how to separate and get open. A gamer who shows up to play and makes things happen with the ball in his hands.

A bit undersized with a somewhat sloppy body. Must prove before the draft that he has the strength to compete at the next level.

Jermaine Kearse 6007 209 Washington
Combine: Forty: 4.58 | BP: 14 | VJ:34.0 | BJ: 119 | 3C: 7.03 | 20Sh: 4.12 | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Football Draft Guide   A low-risk/low upside prospect. He’ll stick around for awhile and contribute on a part-time basis, but his ceiling is as a #3.

From nfl.com - Athletic and extremely productive receiver who has caught a lot of balls over the years. A thick, athletic receiver and polished route runner. Athletic - he can reel in most balls thrown his way. Could play right away as a third/fourth receiver, which makes him a fifth-round talent.

Athletic  route runner. Slow off the ball, but once into his route he knows how to lean on corners to then break and separate. Knows how to sit down in zones. Aware of the holes around him (that's how he's gotten a lot of his production over the years). Won’t flinch when he knows he is going to take a hit and is savvy to put the ball away when covered closely.

A second-round talent, but is the beneficiary of the many receptions you get as a ‘Z’ receiver in a West Coast offense. Decent hands but will lose focus at times. Minimally involved as a run blocker.

Joe Adams 5105 179 Arkansas

Combine: Forty: 4.55 | BP: DNP | VJ: 36.0 | BJ: 123| 3C: 7.09| 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day - Ran 4.46 and 4.47 in the 40 and had a 38-inch vertical. Went through position workouts

BRS (Gollin) - Although speed isn't everything, you look for something faster than a 4.55 when evaluating a smallish waterbug type receiver.

Pro Football Draft Guide   He may be too inconsistent to be more than a #3 or #4 receiver, but he’ll have value in the return game.

From nfl.com - Electrifying., Has the skills to excel at WR, and his ability to return kicks will immediately boost his value. Good vision in the open field with the explosiveness and agility to make people miss. Looks to score each time he has the ball, Will seek to contribute in many facets at the next level and projects to be picked somewhere in the second round.

Has an agility and quick burst that makes it possible for him to make one move and see daylight. A natural, savvy ball carrier who’s smooth catching bubble screens /quick passes. Best trait is his ability to separate at the top of routes even when blanketed. Can stick his foot in the ground to snap out of his breaks. Corners often inadvertently fly by as he snaps off curl routes. A patient runner who runs fluidly and can change speeds to set up corners in-phase before breaking hard to get open. Has the long speed to get open deep and a professional understanding of how to run routes and stem off the ball to gain separation. A very polished slot receiver whose athletic ability should serve him well at the next level.

Not very tough in traffic/too often uses his body to try to secure the catch. Hesitant as a blocker and not strong enough to keep corners engaged. Must be more physical at to be effective at the next level.

ESPN (Scouts, Inc.) - Unrefined route runner. Spends a lot of time working in the slot and is heavily involved in the screen and short-passing game. Good burst off the LOS  and has the top-end speed to threaten. Can run sharp routes and separate quickly. Good natural stop-start ability. Can get in and out of his breaks quickly and shows burst out of his cuts.

Dropped two potential touchdowns in the 2011 Sugar Bowl loss to Ohio State and also had a handful of drops on catchable passes during the 2010 regular season. Biggest issue appears to be his focus. Becomes too concerned with running after the catch and forgets to secure the football first. Allows too many balls to get into his pads. Can tough catches in traffic. Can also pluck while on the run.

Plenty of big-play ability. Good initial burst off the LOS. Can drive DBs back on their heels and has the top-end speed to take the top off of a defense. Bigger threat after the catch than as a vertical route runner. Very dangerous with the ball in his hands in space. Shows good vision as an open-field runner and can make sharp cuts. Knows how to string multiple moves together. COD skills and elusiveness are above average. Doesn't break lots of tackles but has good balance and can regain his feet after initial contact.

Runs hard after the catch. No fear going across the middle. Not an overly aggressive or physical run blocker but shows adequate willingness. Needs to show better ball security.

Travis Benjamin   5-10  175  Miami (FL)
Combine: Forty: DNP | BP: DNP | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP| 3C: DNP| 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Football Draft Guide   Consider him a penniless man’s DeSean Jackson. His value in the return game alone will earn him a roster spot and  Benjamin has potential as a situational deep-threat.

T.Y. Hilton  5-10  185   Florida International
Combine: Forty: DNP | BP: DNP | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP| 3C: DNP| 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Football Draft Guide   A bit of a risk because of the level of competition but has a chance to be next in a recent line of play-making slot receivers. At worst, he’ll continue as a return specialist.

Tommy Streeter   6-4   215 Miami (FL)
Combine: Forty: DNP | BP: DNP | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP| 3C: DNP| 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Football Draft Guide   A developmental prospect with essentially one college season under his belt. Still, he’s a great physical specimen who has #1 receiver upside after a few years of development.

Keyshawn Martin     5-11   190   Michigan State
Combine: Forty: DNP | BP: DNP | VJ: DNP | BJ: DNP| 3C: DNP| 20Sh: DNP | 60Sh: DNP |

Pro Day — Did position drills, showing good quickness and good  feet.

Pro Football Draft Guide   Certainly worth a flier and could have value as a return specialist. He will be a nice upside project for the right position coach.

Richard Matthews   6-1½ 209   Nevada
Combine: Forty:  | BP:  | VJ:  | BJ: | 3C: | 20Sh:  | 60Sh:  |

Pro Day (Brandt) - Matthews really blew my socks off. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.44 and 4.48 seconds, and stayed on his vertical from the combine. He notched a 10-3 broad jump and kept his shuttle, three-cone and bench. He had an outstanding workout. Scouts said it was as good a workout as they’ve seen from a receiver. Matthews caught the ball and got speed. There are lots and lots of receivers in this draft, but Matthews managed to elevate his status with his performance. I would imagine that he’s now a second-round pick.

Pro Football Draft Guide   No write-up.
Danny Coale 6-0    200     Virginia Tech (P)
Combine: Forty: 4.50 | BP: 12 | VJ: 35.0 | BJ: 115| 3C: 6.69| 20Sh: 4.15 | 60Sh: 11.22 |

Pro Day - Coale ran a 4.37 and 4.39 in the 40, posted a 37-inch vertical and 10-3 broad jump, and had times of 4.09 seconds in the short shuttle and 6.63 in the three-cone drill. Coale had a good position workout. With so many wide receivers in the draft, Coale projects as a likely selection in the sixth or seventh round.

Lindy's - Versatile: Punter, Punt Returner, Receiver.

Pro Football Draft Guide
 
No write-up.
Junior Hemmingway   6-1   221  Michigan
Combine: Forty:  | BP:   | VJ:  | BJ:  | 3C:  | 20Sh:   | 60Sh:   |

Pro Day - Hemingway looked very good catching the ball from Bruce Gradkowski, the Bengals QB who was brought in to throw. He’s a sleeper who should surprise on draft day when he’s selected earlier than expected.

Pro Football Draft Guide   No write-up.
 LaRon Byrd    6-4    220    Miami (FL)
Pro Day: Forty: 4.45 | 1.53  |  2.62  |BP: 15  | VJ: 35 | BJ: 10-5 | 3C: 7.07 | 20Sh: 4.10 |

BRS (Gollin) - "Floyd-Lite?" Nice size, with 4.45 speed to go with it. Improvement during East-West Week demonstrates resiliancy and "wanna."

Walter Mitchell (posting on ASFN) - Had his best year as a junior, 41/441, 5 TDs. Big target, possession type...good in red zone. Played better as the week went on at The East-West Shrine game. Runs a 4.45. Kind of got a little lost in the WR talent shuffle and coaching changes at Miami this past season. Seems like a great kid---gives a great interview. Enthusiastic, articulate.

Draft Scout Snapshot: 2010: Started six of 13 games for the Hurricanes... Third on the team in receptions (41) and receiving yards (441)... His touchdown catch against North Carolina (only one of the year) proved to be the game winner. 2009: Second on team with 33 receptions and third with 460 receiving yards … Started eight of 13 games for the Hurricanes … Averaged 13.9 yards per catch … Set a career-high with five catches for 83 yards including a career-long 40-yard grab for his only touchdown of the year against Georgia Tech. 2008: Played in all 13 games and made three starts … Team's sixth-leading receiver with 21 receptions for 228 yards and three touchdowns … Caught the game-tying touchdown - a career-long 26-yard reception - in the final minutes of regulation in the come-from-behind overtime win at Virginia.

01/21/2012 - WR LaRon Byrd, Miami (Fla.): Byrd came back from a rough Tuesday (east-West) practice to become the second impressive Hurricane on the field. At nearly 6-4 and 224 pounds, he took advantage of his size Wednesday, elevating and high-pointing several passes over the defensive back in coverage. After a forgettable senior season, Byrd is helping his draft stock. - Dane Brugler, NFLDraftScout.com

 Marc Wilson  5-11   186    St. Anselm  
Pro Day: Forty:  4.53 | Ten: 1.41 |  Twenty: 2.55 | BP:  16 | VJ:  38½| BJ: 1-7  | Sh Sh: 4.17 |  3C:  6.93 |

BRS - Uh Oh! 4/25/12 - "Daniel Marc Wilson, 19, of the 3600 block of South Winchester Drive in Chicago, was arrested at 3:57 pm in the 200 block of South Washington Street and West Chicago Avenue, police said. He was charged with possession of cannabis. His bond was $120."

Walter Mitchell (posting on ASFN) - Runs a 4.45...and plays even faster. What I love about him is he's an excellent RAC WR---he rips through tackles, is very hard to bring down, and he outraces the secondary when he gets a step on them. Has been scouted for over a year by the Cardinals' regional (New England) scout, Don Corzine---which gave the Cardinals the edge when a bunch of teams started calling. Career stats: 211/2,149 yds/17 TDs/1,626 yds. rushing.
 Tre Gray    5-10    175    Richmond
Pro Day - Forty: 4.58  |  Ten:  1.57 | Twenty 2.66 |  BP: 12  |  VJ: 38½  | BJ: 10-3  | Sh Sh: 4.12 |  3C:  6.79  |

BRS (Gollin) -
All name. Smallish (& has sometihing to prove). Racked up pretty consistent stats in college.

Walter Mitchell (posting on ASFN) - 2011 stas: 95/1,187---had 6 100 yard plus games---leaves Richmond the All-Time leader in receptions (243) and yards (3,101). Had 16/194 in one game vs. New Hampshire in a 45-42 loss. Runs a 4.5---is shifty---has good hands. On the small side, but is very competitive.

From NFLDraftScouts -

03/17/12
- The Spiders' pro day - Aaron Corp chose pro day at UR, where he was comfortable in part because of the presence of ex-Spider receiver Tre Gray. "Definitely having Tre here was good for me and him. (Scouts) want to see him run, and they want to see me throw," said Corp. "We kind of fed off each other that way." ...Corp was the primary draw ...but Gray and ex-Spiders cornerback Tremayne Graham also were there trying to make impressions. "Guys like me slip through the cracks," said Gray, the 5-11 Texan who is UR's career leader in catches and receiving yards. "I know I'm a huge risk. Small school. My size. Not a big name. I'll be grateful for an opportunity." - John O'Connor, Times-Dispatch
08/12/11 - Wide Receiver Tre Gray, Senior, Richmond, has been selected Preseason All-Colonial Athletic Association for the 2011 college football season...Gray enters his final season needing 51 catches and 756 yards to break the Spiders' respective career records. Last season, he reeled in 38 catches, 478 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winning grab with nine seconds left to beat No. 8 Massachusetts, 11-10. He was a Third Team All-CAA Football pick in 2009. - Richmond football
Stanley Arukwe    5-11    184,   Troy 
Pro Day: Forty:  4.19 | BP:   | VJ:  | BJ:  | 3C:  | 20Sh:   | 60Sh:   |

BRS (Gollin) - Example of a limited guy with one redeeming feature who might fill a specific role.- pure speed. Decent size too (no 'mighty mite" by any means). A feature piece by Darren Urban says that Arukwe's Pro Day time was actually a (wind-aided)
4.19. Arkukwe is a California kid - came out of high school a heralded DB and track star ready to head for the Washington Huskies. But his scholarship was only "partial" (& he'd have to come up with some money - which he didn't have). So continued his education at Modesto Jr. College and then moved to Troy (Education came first; then Track).  But he walked onto the football field and was thrust into a WR role vs. Clemson. Cardinal and Viking scouts were in the stands that day. They interviewed Stanley after the game. The rest is history; not to get ahead of ourselves - until he proves something, he's just a track star who managed to get on a 90-man roster loaded with WR talent. But the Cardinals could benefit from having a blazer stretch the field for guys like Fitz and Floyd. Stay tuned.

Walter Mitchell (posting on ASFN) -
One year player as a senior at Troy---the coaches messed up and didn't leave a scholarship open to him earlier---and since Arukwe is a track star the only way he could compete in both sports was to be at least on a half football scholie---but, he came in as a senior and at first had trouble catching the ball, which Arukwe said was his trouble in high school and was why he played DB in high school instead. But every day he got better and better catching the ball, so in the first half of his first game versus Arkansas he catches 4 passes for 84 yards. He didn't put up big numbers the rest of the way---had one 51 yard catch---but he has been training to play in the NFL and that is his goal. BTW---check out the YOUTube video of him running a 4.1 at Troy's Pro Day. Seriously. A 4.1?You won't believe how fast he is.
 Tyler Shoemaker  6015    216     Boise State
Combine: Forty:  | BP:   | VJ:  | BJ:  | 3C:  | 20Sh:   | 60Sh:   |

Pro Day -— Shoemaker ran 4.43 and 4.47 in the 40 and recorded a 37-inch vertical jump, 9-8 broad jump, 4.22 short shuttle, 6.77 three-cone drill and 14 strength lifts. If he isn’t drafted late, he will be a priority free agent.

BRS - Sleeper pick who, though projected as a UDFA ran a 4.43 weighing 216 and, more important, looked great on tape as a go-to clutch receiver.

Pro Football Draft Guide
 
No write-up.

 

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