Justin Jefferson | WR | LSU
Elevator Pitch
A fluid athlete with great body control, impressive ball skills and incredible production in 2019, Jefferson has the potential to be a high-end No. 2 receiver at the next level. With some fine-tuning to his route-running technique, he can be a real problem for opposing defenses in the NFL.
Vitals
Height | 6-1
Weight | 202
Strengths
Jefferson fits the prototype of the “big slot” receiver that has seen an uptick in popularity in recent years.
His athletic ability is certainly apparent on tape. He possesses top-notch body control and is able to make tough adjustments to the ball in the air, helping complement his focus and strong hands to make his ball skills among the best in the class. as well as change direction seamlessly after the catch. He does a good job of stemming his routes and using leverage points to his advantage.
Jefferson’s speed is quality, as he can accelerate off the snap well and outrun defenders once he gets into the open field. Some were worried about his 40-yard dash time at the Combine, but he put those concerns to bed with an admirable 4.43 time. His production this past season was through the roof, too: he finished the year with 111 catches, 1,540 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Weaknesses
While Jefferson proved to be capable of separating at the collegiate level, one has to wonder how much of that was related to scheme. He’s a good athlete, but his technique as a route runner could use some cleaning up. His footwork can be a little sloppy at times, and he can struggle to sink his hips into his breaks and make sharp cuts.
He was a reliable target coming out of the slot, but Jefferson doesn’t offer as much value lined up wide. He doesn’t do a great job of using his hands to separate from tight man coverage, and his ability to break press isn’t all that great. His profile is certainly one of an NFL contributor, but he doesn’t necessarily have “No. 1 target” written all over him.
Projection: Round 2
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