Tag: rookie wide receiver

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Jalen Tolbert, South Alabama

Tolbert is a sleeper type that could easily develop into an NFL starter

The three-sport high school athlete signed with South Alabama over Michigan State and Vanderbilt. He redshirted his 2017 true freshman season after a knee injury during training camp. By his redshirt junior year, he was named All-Sun Belt Conference and opted to return for his redshirt senior year in 2021 where he became the conference Offensive Player of the Year and set school single-season records with 82 catches for 1,474 yards and eight scores.

Tolbert enters the NFL draft at a mature 23 years old, already two years older than any of the current top tier of rookie wideouts. He’s a year older than Ja’Marr Chase. He only started his final two seasons at South Alabama but excelled in each. No other receiver gained more than 630 yards in  either season, while Tolbert’s final year was among the best in the NCAA.

Height: 6-1
Weight: 194 pounds
40 time: 4.49 seconds

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

While Tolbert enters the draft as an “old” rookie, there’s no arguing how he dominated the competition last year when he logged seven games with more than 100 yards and averaged 18 yards-per-carry. He didn’t get the attention  of receivers from more prominent schools, but he’s progressed each year and has the look of a starter in the NFL.

Table: Jalen Tolbert NCAA stats (2018-21)

Year School Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards TD
2018 South Alabama 5 5 60 12.0 0 0 0 0
2019 South Alabama 12 27 521 19.3 6 0 0 0
2020 South Alabama 11 64 1085 17.0 8 0 0 0
2021 South Alabama 12 82 1474 18.0 8 0 0 0

Pros

  • Played multiple positions
  • Outstanding big-play ability
  • Three-level ability
  • Stellar body control at the catch point
  • Knack for getting open
  • Tremendous work ethic, student of the game
  • Improved every season
  • Wins contested catches
  • High average catch yardage thanks to run after catch
  • Gains separation with quickness off the line

Cons

  • Sometimes rounds off routes
  • Run blocking can improve
  • Occasional focus drops
  • Lacks elite second-gear acceleration

Fantasy outlook

Tolbert is likely to be a second-day pick. He offers a more complete package than many other rookie wideouts with four college seasons behind him and an ability to play the outside or slot. Tolbert can fit in where the team needs him to be. Though he is already 23, he still has plenty to learn entering the NFL but his attitude and impressive work ethic should see his progress as a receiver continue.

Tolbert is a sleeper type that could easily develop into an NFL starter. He’ll be available to any NFL team given that he’s going to fall between the second and third rounds. Tolbert’s a hard worker and quick study, and if he lands on a team that needs a starting wideout in any of the three positions, Tolbert will compete for that job. He’s likely a better bet in a dynasty league since he does have to adapt to the pro ranks after playing the likes of Appalachian State, Coastal Carolina, and Georgia Southern, but he’s an athletic, mature, high-motor player that comes off a college season averaging 123 yards per game.

At the least, he’s a training camp watch to see how well he fits into wherever he lands. At the most, he could be a deep sleeper on a receiver-needy team.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Garrett Wilson, Ohio State

Garrett Wilson one of the best wideouts in a very deep class

Garrett Wilson was a standout at Lake Travis High School in Texas, where his high school career produced 204 catches for 3,359 yards and 55 touchdowns. He signed with Ohio State and has been a contributor there since he was a freshman. Wilson projects to be one of the first wideouts taken in the 2022 NFL draft and is one of the fastest receivers in this year’s class.

Wilson played on the outside for his first season but then moved to the slot entering 2020. He’s likely to be selected to remain in the slot where he was a devastating weapon for the Buckeyes. He opened the 2020 season with four consecutive games with over 100 yards and finished his fine junior year with three straight 100-yard efforts.

He played with Justin Fields for his first two years but then hit a higher level with quarterback C.J. Stroud and topped 1,000 yards. Wilson was a part of a deadly trio of wideouts at Ohio State last year. Teammates Jaxon Smith-Njigba (95-1606-9) and Chris Olave (65-936-13) were also top receivers in the Big Ten.

Height: 6-0
Weight: 183 pounds
40 time: 4.38 seconds

Wilson was a playmaker and game-breaker in college, with speed to take it to the house on any play. He’ll be one of the first rookies drafted in fantasy leagues this year.

Table: Garrett Wilson NCAA stats (2019-21)

Year School Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards. TD
2019 Ohio State 13 30 432 14.4 5 0 0 0
2020 Ohio State 8 43 723 16.8 6 2 67 0
2021 Ohio State 11 70 1058 15.1 12 4 76 1

Pros

  • Blazing speed with effortless second gear
  • Crisp route runner with precise moves
  • Outstanding deep threat
  • Can high-point the ball and has fly-paper hands to make catch
  • Great football intelligence with a knack for being open
  • Strong downfield blocker
  • Master of “yards after catch” as a threat to all levels of defense
  • Burst from line with clean cuts and snaps at change of direction
  • Can double as a returner

Cons

  • Smaller size may limit him to slot work
  • Not as physical at the point of catch
  • Catch radius is smaller, so targets need to be accurate
  • Occasional concentration drops

Fantasy outlook

Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson will be the Jaylen Waddle/DeVonta Smith from this draft – both expected to be first-round picks, and yet in this case, neither was the top receiver for Ohio State last year. Wilson is one of the lowest risk rookie wideouts this year; he’s succeeded on hard work, exact route running, and being at his most dangerous in the middle of the secondary under the safety where his burst and speed have been deadly.

Wilson helped his case with that 4.38 40-time at the NFL Combine, but he’s much more than just a deep-ball receiver. There are some draft boards with Wilson at the top, so he should be taken by the middle of the first round.

Wilson projects to be a fantasy factor even as a rookie. He’s not big and physical, and likely won’t play outside against press coverage. But he’s a student of the game that will put in the work necessary to be successful at the pro level and has the physical tools to shine.

He’ll be best served in the slot, playing for an accurate quarterback with some element of RPO since he’s often described as “a quarterback’s best friend” who is always open, knows what to do when plays break down and can be used in many versatile ways including the occasional jet sweep.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Jameson Williams, Alabama

Jameson Williams could be a stellar addition to any football team if he can replicate that one good year that ended with an ACL tear.

Jameson Williams presents a very interesting case to be one of the early-drafted wideouts this year. There’s a lot to like from his 2021 performance with he dominated opposing secondaries while the Crimson Tide advanced to yet another College Football Championship. He hails from an Alabama  program that produced Jaylen Waddle, DeVonta Smith, Henry Ruggs III, and Jerry Jeudy in just the last two years.

And yet his first two seasons were spent at Ohio State where he was a reserve with special teams play. Williams was behind Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson for the Buckeyes, and both of those receivers are also in this draft. Williams helped fill the void that was left with Waddle and Smith left for the NFL draft last season and the Crimson Tide had to remake their receiver corps (not that unusual for Alabama, nor often a problem either).

There’s no contesting that he had a tremendous season in 2021.  But he also tore his ACL in the College Football Playoff National Championship. That throws at least some uncertainty on here he should be valued on NFL draft boards. His injury kept him from performing at the NFL Combine, but there’s plenty of tape to review from his 79-catch, 1,572-yard performance last year.

He’s had the surgery and is reportedly ahead of schedule in is recovery that was expected to be 5-7 months. There’s still a chance that he could be ready by training camp, but even if he wasn’t ready by the season’s start, that shouldn’t have much bearing on where he is selected.

Height: 6-2
Weight: 189 pounds
40 time: sub-4.4 seconds estimated (did not run at combine)

Williams could be a stellar addition to any football team if he can replicate that one good year that ended with an ACL tear. But – he only managed the one notable season and as with so many Alabama players entering the draft, the question always exists – how much did the perpetually-stacked offense around him help his production?

Table: Jameson Williams NCAA stats (2019-21)

Year School Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards. TD
2019 Ohio State 4 6 112 18.7 1 0 0 0
2020 Ohio State 6 9 154 17.1 2 0 0 0
2021 Alabama 15 79 1572 19.9 15 3 23 0

Pros

  • Highly productive as a starter for Alabama
  • Fast – accelerates instantly and has that elite extra gear
  • Burst and start-stop is special, can blow past coverage
  • Long limbs with large catch radius
  • Impressive route runner
  • Outstanding ability to get separation
  • Deadly from slot with a free release
  • Consistent yards after catch as a slippery speed merchant
  • Good football intelligence helps him respond to differing types of coverage
  • Versatile and more than just a deep threat
  • Big play ability makes him dangerous every down
  • High character

Cons

  • Recovering from ACL tear in January
  • Possible one-year wonder
  • More of a vertical receiver
  • Lanky build could suffer versus aggressive NFL cornerbacks

Fantasy outlook

Jameson Williams enjoyed an elite 2021 season that ended in the National Championship when he tore his ACL. He’s certainly more of a risk that other receivers that crested 1,500 yards in a single season thanks to that injury and the fact that he couldn’t win a starting job for two years at Ohio State. And both of the Buckeye wideouts he couldn’t surpass are also in this draft.

He’s still expected to be taken in the back half of the first round. His redraft value will be lower since he may not be 100% up to speed by the start of the season and he’s only played for one year as a starter – albeit with great results.

With any receiver, the value depends on the quarterback and overall offense that he joins. Williams should be a higher pick in a dynasty league where his worth should increase in future years. He’ll be tracked throughout the offseason and preseason to determine how likely he’ll be a notable factor as a rookie. But he could end up a steal for his team in future years if he can display the form of 2021.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Chris Olave, Ohio State

Chris Olave is the prototypical wide receiver with a shot at becoming a No. 1 wideout for an NFL team

Chris Olave is the prototypical wide receiver with a shot at becoming a No. 1 wideout for his NFL team. He blew up as a senior in high school with 1,764 yards and 26 touchdowns and opted to sign with the Buckeyes.

He played for four years, starting the final three. He considered declaring for the NFL draft after his junior season but opted to remain for one more year in order to improve his resume and draft stock after the 2020 season was shortened due to COVID. It worked. Olave ended his collegiate career with 65 catches for 936 yards and 13 touchdowns and is a likely first-round draft pick in April.

Height: 6-0
Weight: 187 pounds
40 time: 4.39 seconds

Notable too is that Olave played along with Justin Fields through 2020 and was the leading receiver for Fields last two seasons. That topped out at 840 receiving yards as a sophomore during his only full season with Fields. In 2021, Fields left and while Olave posted a career best 936 yards on 65 catches,  he was only the third on the Buckeyes in receiving yards and catches with C.J. Stroud as the new quarterback that remained in the pocket. Both Garrett Wilson (70-1,058-12) and Jaxon Smith-Njigba (95-1,606-9) were more productive than Olave.

Table: Chris Olave NCAA stats (2018-2021)

Year Team Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards TD Total Yards Total TDs
2018 Ohio St. 7 12 197 16.4 3 0 0 0 197 3
2019 Ohio St. 13 48 840 17.5 12 2 5 0 845 12
2020 Ohio St. 7 50 729 14.6 7 1 0 0 729 7
2021 Ohio St. 11 65 936 14.4 11 0 0 0 936 11

Pros

  • Holds Ohio State career record with 35 receiving touchdowns.
  • Scoring threat on every play, dangerous after catch
  • Excellent route runner
  • Experienced and mature receiver
  • Creates separation at all three levels
  • Impressive football intelligence, finds the open areas
  • Can start and stop on a dime, tremendous balance
  • Great hands
  • Works with quarterback when play breaks down
  • Highlight reel catches
  • Elite speed can be lethal on vertical routes
  • Impressed at the combine

Cons

  • Was at best with a mobile quarterback, not a pocket passer
  • Lacks the bulk for effective run blocking
  • Lanky frame may struggle against outside press
  • Needs to improve strength to handle aggressive cornerbacks

Fantasy outlook

Chris Olave was a playmaker at Ohio State and a touchdown machine in their offense. He’s expected to be a first-round pick that will be selected as early as the middle of the round. He’s a tremendous athlete and his intelligence and maturity cannot be overvalued.

This natural pass-catcher helped Justin Fields become a top draft choice last year, and his one season with a pocket passer resulted in career marks for Olave. His great hands and elite speed will translate well into the NFL and as a mature, four-year player at Ohio State, Olave shouldn’t have as long of a learning curve as many other wideouts.

Olave will be drafted to become an eventual No. 1 receiver for his team, if not a challenger even as a rookie. His only downside is that 6-0,  187-pound frame that could impact his blocking skills and ability to handle physical corners. He’ll likely add a few more pounds of muscle in the NFL.

He’ll be taken early enough that there’s no question about his fantasy relevance as a rookie. He’s worth a pick in any fantasy draft, and if he lands in an advantageous situation, he could quickly work his way into being a fantasy starter.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Drake London, USC

Drake London enters the NFL as a top wideout prospect

Drake London committed to USC to play both football and basketball after excelling in high school in Moorpark, California. After an encouraging freshman year,  he opted to focus solely on football and started for all six games in the COVID-shortened season of 2020. He was named Second Team – All PAC-12 and entered last year with the expectation of being one of the best college receivers. He did not disappoint.

London only played for eight games as a junior due to a fractured ankle but was on a pace to end with 132 catches for 1,626 yards and 11 touchdowns. He’d broken 1,000 yards by Week 8 and while the injury ended a likely Biletnikoff Award, he was still named as the PAC-12 Player of the Year.

His first two seasons at USC saw him behind Michael Pittman Jr. and Amon-Ra St. Brown. When he assumed the No. 1 role last year, he was nearly unstoppable,  recording 88 catches for 1,084 yards  and averaging 11 catches per game over just eight games. London caught up to 16 receptions as a possession receiver that dominated the target share. And that was during one of the worst seasons (4-8) in USC history.

Height: 6-4
Weight: 219 pounds
40 time: 4.5 seconds (estimated – did not run at the combine)

Due to his ankle injury, London attended the NFL Combine but only for interviews and did not perform or get measured. He intends to have his own Pro Day on April 5, separate from the official USC Pro Day held on March 23. He is still working towards full recovery from his ankle injury but is expected to be completely ready for the 2022 NFL season.

Table: Drake London NCAA stats (2019-2021)

Year Team Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards TD Total Yards Total TDs
2019 USC 13 39 567 14.5 5 0 0 0 567 5
2020 USC 6 33 502 15.2 3 0 0 0 502 3
2021 USC 8 88 1084 12.3 7 1 2 0 1086 07

Pros

  • Rare combination of size and athleticism
  • Elite hands and ball skills at all levels
  • Impressive timing on leaps
  • Crisp routes and success at all three levels of the defense
  • Uses height and strong hands to win almost all 50/50 balls
  • Experienced both outside and in the slot
  • Basketball skills add to superior catch ability
  • Dominated NCAA defenses
  • Size makes him a formidable downfield blocker
  • Smart receiver that finds the open spot

Cons

  • Lack of elite speed is compensated with size and football IQ
  • Didn’t measure at combine but should at Pro Day
  • Needs work on run blocking
  • Not quick off the line
  • Most experience was in the slot, not outside

Fantasy outlook

Drake London rates to be in the first round, usually as a Top-3 rookie wideout and has the chance of being the first name called for his position. Breaking his ankle last season short-circuited an electric performance on an otherwise ineffective Trojans’ team. London was described as “a quarterback’s best friend”. He was so proficient with receptions, that he didn’t need the ball thrown to him, merely “at him,” and he’d come down with it.

A perceived lack of top speed, and quickness getting there, is a downgrade by some scouts, but there is no arguing how well he played, and on a team without any other elements of an elite offense around him. London compares to Mike Evans who logged much the same measurables when he entered the NFL.

London needs to prove that the fractured ankle is not of any ongoing concern – and it isn’t expected to be. But his recovery meant that he wouldn’t have logged as fast in a 40-time back at the NFL Combine, so he’s delayed his personal Pro Day as long as he can.

London may not sport elite speed, but he’s been everything else that a team could want from their No. 1 wideout. While he was once described as a tremendously talented tight end, he is not slow. He is a factor on deep routes though his bread and butter is short and intermediate routes that maximizes his catching ability, size advantage and overall football intelligence.

There’s plenty to love about a 6-4 receiver with elite hands and pass-catching skills. Playing on a USC team that trailed in most games last year and that had no other real threats, London still managed to catch at least nine passes in all but one game and turned in over 130 yards in six of the eight. He’d be a great addition to a team with a young quarterback looking to establish a connection that could last for years.

And he’d be a potential rookie of the year if he ends up paired with one of the elite veteran quarterbacks.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Treylon Burks, Arkansas

Treylon Burks looks to be a Day 1 draft pick

The Razorback star is expected to be a Day 1 selection by a team looking for a possession receiver that has the speed and ability to excel anywhere on the field. He came out of high school ranked as the No. 11 wideout in the country and elected to remain in Arkansas despite being heavily recruited by many schools. He landed on the All-SEC freshman team.

Burks led Arkansas in receiving yards for all three years and just last season caught 11 touchdowns – no other team receiver scored more than twice. He’s big at 6-3 and 225 pounds and has deceptive speed even if he timed slower than expected at the NFL Combine. Burks is a physical receiver with hands so large that he has custom-made gloves. He consistently tacked on yards after the catch and has the strength and size to break tackles and extend catches.

Height: 6-3
Weight: 225 pounds
40 time: 4.55 seconds

Burks was All-SEC last season and was on the Biletnikoff and Maxwell Award watchlist. He’s been a true No. 1 receiver in college and projects the same potential for the NFL.

Table: Treylon Burks NCAA stats (2019-2021)

Year Team Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards TD Total Yards Total TDs
2019 ARK 11 29 475 16.4 0 9 35 0 510 0
2020 ARK 9 51 820 16.1 7 15 75 0 895 7
2021 ARK 12 66 1104 16.7 11 14 112 1 1216 12

Pros

  • Big-framed physical wide receiver that can make contested catches and break tackles
  • Fits into the new style of NFL receiver – can catch and run as a versatile athlete
  • Powerful core and muscular upper body that can handle press coverage
  • Huge hands – 9 7/8 inches wide were tops at the combine for wideouts. Can make the highlight-reel catches
  • Can play a possession role over the middle but also excels as a deep threat where his size and body control gets him above defenders
  • Great burst and fluid moves with deceptive speed
  • Solid downfield blocker with the size to move defenders
  • Offers a big target with a huge catch radius
  • Moves and cuts very well for his size.

Cons

  • Mostly played in slot and ran limited route tree
  • Lacks speed – 40-time at the combine was a disappointment
  • Had concentration issues that led to some  drops
  • Needs to work on route running for crisper cuts

Fantasy outlook

Burks is likely to be a first-round selection in the NFL draft and presents an intriguing set of skills and potential, while lacking the speed to make him more of a “can’t miss” choice. He was expected to turn in a 40-time in the low 4.4s but only managed 4.55. Still fast enough to be a factor in the deeper passing game, but not quite to the level of previously drafted big  receivers that also offered more speed.

He’s also more likely to start slower and needs some adjustment time to the NFL after his more limited route tree. His success at Arkansas came from the slot where he didn’t deal with defenders at the line as much, and he played with marginally talented quarterbacks. He was the only receiver that mattered last year, and his size allowed him to benefit from being the primary target when they did pass.

Still, he has the potential to be a true No. 1 receiver in the NFL. Offenses love a big target with adequate speed and baseball mitts for hands. His slower 40-time was only a disappointment because he had played much faster, and the expectation was that he had elite potential. But his 40-time was right on par with two other big receivers – Mike Evans and Davante Adams.

Where he lands will have an obvious impact on his first-year outlook, but he is expected to be a mid to late first round pick. That means that he has a shot at playing on any team. He was the best receiver in every year that he played at Arkansas. He may face far better defenses in the NFL, but he’ll also likely have a much better offense around him.

Rookie Rundown: WR Tylan Wallace, Oklahoma State

Tylan Wallace offers a mature, speedy package for the NFL.

Tylan Wallace and his twin Bracin Wallace went to Oklahoma Stats in 2017, but his brother retired from football after several ACL tears in his first two seasons. Tylan saw minimal action as a freshman but became a starter in 2018 after James Washington and Marcell Ateman left for the NFL.

Wallace blew up in his sophomore year, netting 86 receptions for 1,491 yards and 13 touchdowns. That ranked No. 6 in the FBS for catches that year. He was a first-team All-Big 12 and a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award.

He suffered an ACL injury in 2019 that limited him to only nine games. He was on the path to another fine season and still was voted as the Cowboy’s Most Outstanding Offensive Player. His senior season saw him with lower stats during the COVID-19 impacted season but was again named as a first-team All-Big 12.

Height: 5-11
Weight: 190 pounds
40 time: 4.48 seconds

There was a chance in quarterback after 2018 that impacted Wallace. But he was consistently their best option at receiver and showed consistency throughout his three seasons as a starter. He played his best when in the biggest games and should end up as a slot receiver in the NFL.

WR Tylan Wallace, Oklahoma State stats

Year Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards. TD Total Yards Total TDs
2017 5 7 118 16.9 0 0 0 0 118 0
2018 13 86 1491 17.3 12 1 6 1 1497 13
2019 9 53 903 17.0 8 1 0 0 903 8
2020 10 59 922 15.6 6 1 7 0 929 6

Pros

  • Dynamic receiver in all facets of the position
  • Dangerous after the catch
  • Strong hands can catch contested passes
  • Nice usage of body to shield defenders
  • Can win most 50/50 balls
  • Crisp route runner
  • Adept at adjusting to deep balls
  • Works to add positive yardage
  • Hand/eye coordination helps to snag over the shoulder targets
  • Gains solid separation
  • Good run blocking

Cons

  • Faced lesser quality of coverage in Big 12
  • Only average speed
  • Lacks a deep burst
  • Under-sized for NFL
  • Concerns about knee

Fantasy outlook

Wallace was a tremendous weapon for the Cowboy’s offense and many scouts believe he will have a significant role in the NFL as a well-rounded, consistent player that plays bigger than he is. But if he falls in the draft, it will likely be regarding his knee. His twin brother tore his ACL three times in two years and retired from football. Wallace tore his during a practice session in 2019 but bounced back nicely in 2020.

Fair or not, it draws concern with his long-term durability.

Wallace may not have the  perfect measurables, but he’s always delivered. And aside from the one knee issue, he’s been very durable for a receiver who can deliver a physical presence and works well in traffic. He projects as slot receiver that can work the middle with the occasional deep route. He’s speculated to go as early as Day 2, but likely will be Day 3 in a receiver-rich draft class.

Wallace doesn’t have the elite characteristics that will make his quarterback a better passer. But if he lands with one of the better passers in the NFL, he could surprise. His possession skills will get him onto the field, and his run blocking will help him stay on the field. He’s sensitive to where he lands, but his potential will likely exceed where he is drafted.

Rookie Rundown: WR Kadarius Toney, Florida

Versatile Kadarius Toney angles for a first-round selection

Kadarius Toney was a dual-threat quarterback for his final two seasons of high school in Alabama and was recruited by most of the SEC. He opted for Florida over Alabama, knowing that his transition from high school to college would change his position to wide receiver.

Toney was active for eight games as a freshman and started two. He caught 15 passes for 152 yards in one and then started as a running back in the other when he ran for 120 yards on 14 rushes with one score. He played a reserve role as a sophomore and even played as a wildcat quarterback in some games. As a junior, he would only play for seven games after injuring his shoulder but again was used as a receiver, running back, and wildcat quarterback.

Toney was well served by returning for his senior season. He led the Gators with 70 catches for 984 yards and ten touchdowns. He also ran 19 times for 161 yards and returned 18 punts and kickoffs. He was voted first-team SEC as an all-purpose player and was a finalist for the Paul Hornung Award for most versatile performer.

Height: 5-11
Weight: 193 pounds
40 time: 4.39 seconds

He enters the NFL draft with an intriguing set of talents that could fit into a number of different roles for his team. What he doesn’t have is a lengthy resume as a receiver. But he comes off a season that suggests he has a role as an NFL starter, particularly from the slot.

WR Kadarius Toney, Florida Stats

Year Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards. TD Total Yards Total TDs
2017 8 15 152 10.1 0 14 120 1 272 1
2018 12 25 260 10.4 1 21 240 0 500 1
2019 7 10 194 19.4 1 12 59 0 253 1
2020 11 70 984 14.1 10 19 161 1 1145 11

Toney is expected to be no later than a second-round pick, with a high chance of going in the latter part of the first round. His background points at a player that can be used in almost any skill position. His special teams work should see him carve a role as a rookie in the NFL, and his receiving skills will likely show up in his first year. Throw in his ability to run and pass the ball as well, and Toney could be a speedy and deadly weapon in a creative, complex offense that can use him in multiple roles.

Pros

  • Explosive offensive playmaker
  • Speed makes him a threat to score on any play
  • One of the most versatile players in draft
  • Special teams returner
  • Inventive offensive coordinator’s dream
  • Physical runner that plays bigger than his size
  • Hasn’t found his ceiling as a receiver
  • Burst and fluidity landed him moniker of “human joystick”
  • Can play any position, but slot is ideal
  • Electric in open field

Cons

  • Still needs work on route running
  • Only started at wideout for one year
  • Needs to improve run blocking
  • Size likely keeps him as a slot receiver
  • Battled injuries at times

Fantasy outlook

Toney isn’t expected to become a No. 1 wideout for a team but could carve a significant role as a slot receiver, returner, and dangerous weapon on end-around runs, jet sweeps, reverses, and even the occasional wildcat quarterback play.

He presents an interesting package for an offense to use. In fantasy terms, his role may be les reliable than desired. While he should help his team with his broad set of skills, it may take time to see him evolve into a receiver with a heavy enough workload to merit a fantasy start. His team could use him as a returner at first and limit his plays from scrimmage.

He’ll also be more likely successful in an offense that uses the slot as much as the outside position, though most NFL teams rely on 3-man sets and Toney can potentially play outside if needed. He has the talents and physical attributes that should spell success at the NFL. Any use of him as a runner only boosts his fantasy value.

His lack of playing time as a pure receiver could see him drop into the second round and force teams to view him as more of a development player that can offer special teams and occasional work as a receiver to start his career.  A first-round selection will indicate that his team considers him as a definite rookie contributor.

Rookie Rundown: WR D’Wayne Eskridge, Western Michigan

Eskridge rises on draft boards after a great Senior Bowl

D’Wayne Eskridge is expected to be a second or third-round pick though he sports an unusual resume. The ex-Bronco enters the NFL at the age of 24, having spent five seasons at Michigan State. He’s rising up draft boards despite never scoring more than eight touchdowns or gaining over 811 yards in any of his five years.

Eskridge was a rare two-way player, serving as both a wide receiver and a cornerback at times. He became a starter as a sophomore and posted 506 yards on 30 receptions in Michigan State’s low-volume passing attack. As a junior, he opened the year with eight catches for 240 yards and two scores versus Syracuse but was limited to only two catches in most games. He averaged 20.4 yards per catch that year.

As a senior, he suffered a broken collar bone that required surgery. Since he had not played more than four games and had not used a redshirt year, he was allowed to return for a fifth season. 2019 had him working more as a cornerback with just three catches over those initial four starts.

His final season saw him explode. While the Broncos were limited to only six games in their COVID-shortened year, Eskridge was nearly unstoppable with over 100 yards in all but one game  and posting 212 yards and three scores on only four receptions versus Central Michigan. He averaged 23.3 yards per catch while he abused MAC cornerbacks.

Height: 5-9
Weight: 190 pounds
40 time: 4.33 seconds

Returning for that fifth season benefitted Eskridge in his bid to land in the NFL. He is a freakishly athletic player in every metric. He squatted over 500 pounds, had a  vertical leap of 37.5-inches, and is a blur when he runs. His limitation was more playing on a team that didn’t throw that much.

WR D’Wayne Eskridge, Western Michigan Stats

Year Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards. TD Total Yards Total TDs
2016 10 17 121 7.1 1 6 60 0 181 1
2017 12 30 506 16.9 3 4 13 0 519 3
2018 11 38 776 20.4 3 0 0 0 776 3
2019 4 3 73 24.3 0 0 0 0 73 0
2020 6 33 768 23.3 8 2 43 0 811 8

Pros

  • Gifted athlete in strength, speed and agility
  • Great first step off the line of scrimmage
  • Homerun threat and not just deep passes
  • Tremendous after the catch gains
  • Comfortable at all three levels of the route
  • Cornerback experience helps against defenders
  • Competitive
  • Extra gear gives him instant burst
  • Dangerous return man
  • Stretches the field to help all receivers

Cons

  • Smaller sized hands
  • Under-sized frame
  • Operated in a basic passing offense
  • Smaller size may limit outside work in the NFL
  • Minor drop issues
  • Already 24 years old
  • Relied more on speed than crisp routes

Fantasy outlook

Eskridge heads to the NFL as one of those players that could surprise even as a rookie with blazing speed and great athleticism. Or he may end up like most other receivers that looked great playing on a team that did not often throw using a simplified passing scheme against a lower tier of college opponents. He’ll  be 28 years old at the end of his rookie contract. Consider that against mostly 21-year-olds that inhabit the top of the draft.

That’s not to say he doesn’t have a place in the NFL. But projecting him as a future No. 1 receiver is hard to do given his size, limited experience in a pro-style offense and age. He’ll offer Year 1 value if he lands with a team looking to add a field-stretching slot receiver that can – at least on occasion – offer deep catches. But his consistency as a rookie will be tough to rely on in the best case.

His value is higher in NFL-terms than fantasy. He can return kicks and punts, force safeties to pay attention, and turn in at least a handful of impressive plays if he gets behind the defense. He will have to be accounted for by the defense.

His early value will be highly dependent on where he lands. Eskridge isn’t likely to end up on a team seeking a new No. 1 receiver. But he could fit into an offense that already sports a formidable passing game and can use him as a piece of the puzzle.

Rookie Rundown: WR DeVonta Smith, Alabama

Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith proves size doesn’t matter

What’s not to like about the Heisman Trophy winner who set all-time receiving records at Alabama? Maybe his size? Does it matter? It certainly didn’t matter playing at the highest level in college football.

While he played sparingly as a freshman, he became a factor on the 2018 National Championship team when he provided the game-winning touchdown in overtime. That was playing behind Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs. In 2019, Ruggs left and Smith outplayed Jeudy when he became the Crimson Tide’s top receiver with 68 catches for 1,256 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Rather than follow Jeudy in declaring for the 2020 NFL draft, Smith returned for his senior season, where he posted an astronomic 117 receptions for 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns in only 13 games. Smith became the first wideout ever to win the AP Player of the Year. He  secured the 2020 Heisman Trophy as the first wide receiver since 1991 and only the fourth ever.

Smith’s final matchup was another National Championship where he set records for the title game with 12 catches for 215 yards and three touchdowns. He was named the Offensive MVP of the game. He only played in the first half because of a finger injury.

Height: 6-1
Weight: 170-ish pounds
40 time: 4.4-ish seconds

Smith did not merely dominate, he was the best player on the best team versus the best of all opponents. Smith leaves Alabama with every conceivable box already checked. He opted to sit out of the 2021 Senior Bowl because there was nothing left to prove.

Without an NFL Combine and electing to sit out of both Alabama Pro Days, there is no current measure on his weight or 40-time. He’s been listed between 170 and 179 pounds, but his frame suggests the 170 is more likely. According to previous 40-yard dashes that were not official, Smith ran between a 4.3 and 4.5. Regardless, catching 117 passes and scoring 24 total touchdowns for Alabama indicate that he’s plenty “football fast” in any case.

WR Devonta Smith, Alabama Stats

Year Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Runs Yards. TD Total Yards Total TDs
2017 8 8 160 20.0 3 0 0 0 160 3
2018 13 42 693 16.5 6 0 0 0 693 6
2019 13 68 1256 18.5 14 0 0 0 1256 14
2020 13 117 1856 15.9 23 4 6 1 1862 24

His weight will likely cause him to drop slightly in the draft, though by all accounts he remains a first rounder. Finding a player to equate him to is difficult. Over the last ten years, the number of wideouts drafted that were over 6-0 and yet weighed under 180 pounds is zero. The only 6-0 receivers in that metric were DeDe Westbrook (2017: 6-0, 178 pounds) and Paul Richardson (2014: 6-0, 175 pounds). Neither have done much.

The only lighter first-round wideouts drafted in the last ten years were Marquise Brown (2019: 5-11, 165 pounds) and Tavon Austin (2013: 5-8, 174 pounds). Neither delivered on their expectations. The reality is that NFL-caliber defensive backs are hard to beat regardless, and more so for those less able to contend with physical contact from elite cornerbacks.

Tavon Austin’s senior season at West Virginia produced a stat line of 114-1289-12, plus 643 yards as a runner. He’s never gained more than 473 receiving yards in the NFL. Marquise Brown’s final year at Oklahoma totaled 75-1318-10, and he was the first wideout drafted in 2019. Two years in the NFL and his best season was 769 yards and eight scores in 2020.

Another parallel that gets drawn considers Marvin Harrison who stood 6-0 and weighed 181 pounds at his 1996 combine. And he excelled. Then again, he also was a rookie 25 years ago and the NFL evolves every season.

The other reality is that Smith crushed it at every level that he’s ever played. Reaching two National Championships means he already faced the best defenses that the NCAA can provide and won big. He won the Heisman Trophy. He became the MVP of a National Championship game.

What more could he have done?

Pros

  • Excellent route discipline
  • Tremendous timing
  • Smart and instinctual football player
  • Elusive runner
  • Doesn’t shy away from the ball ever
  • Polished and mature player
  • Initial quickness negates press coverage
  • Consistent
  • Always gets the job done
  • Special teams experience
  • Great hands, makes contested  catches

Cons

  • Blocking skills are average
  • Smaller frame a concern versus NFL defenders

Fantasy outlook

In Smith’s final game when he was the National Championship MVP, he dislocated his finger and tore ligaments but there are no concerns that it will be any issue.

While Smith has a slimmer frame than any other wideout of any note, he’s still expected to be selected in the first fifteen picks of the NFL draft and among the first three  receivers taken.  He’ll be fascinating to watch from a pure football perspective since he’s been the best of the best and could end up as a first-round “bargain” if he can continue to deliver.

He projects mostly as a slot receiver since he may not possess the size and strength to be a traditional X-receiver. But he will be drafted to become a No. 1 receiver and his poise, intelligence and experience should shorten any learning curve significantly.

Smith is linked to the Bengals, Dolphins, Lions, Panthers, Eagles, Patriots, and Chargers but he could go almost anywhere if a team opts to move up and select the talented prospect. That could very well end up happening if there is any sense that he is falling in the draft.

We’ll see if Smith is the next Marvin Harrison or just the next Tavon Austin. Or maybe, he’ll just continue to be the elite player that others are compared against.