4/15/22
The game of college football has been evolving for some time now, and with that, the NFL has done the same. Offensively, there has been a major shift on offense towards much more passing. That is why NFL franchises are, and will continue, to place such a high premium on maintaining a roster of several big time playmakers at the WR position. Whether early on in the draft or a sleeper in the later rounds, there are lots of exciting players to be on the lookout for in this years stacked WR class.
1. Treylon Burks (Arkansas)
An elite WR who I’ve had my eye on for a while now. He stayed in his home state to play at Arkansas, a school not really known for putting up big numbers in the pass game or for producing top WRs. However, Burks changed the narrative on both fronts. With increased production in each year, Treylon capped off his Razorback career with 1,104 yards and 11 TDs in 2021. Impressively, he averaged over 16 yards per reception in each of his three seasons at Arkansas.
No need for a player like this to return for a fourth season. A physically imposing target standing at 6’3, 225 lbs. Ran a 4.5 in the 40 yard dash and displays a rare combination of both size and speed. Burks’ build and skillset resembles a DK Metcalf type of receiver. A lot of big WRs either don’t understand how to use their physicality to their advantage or just aren’t willing to do so – that is not the case here. Treylon absolutely bullies defenders with his big frame and then is able to break away from tackles after the catch. A master at catching the ball with his hands, away from his body. Burks can go right around DBs who try to jam him at the line of scrimmage with his quick releases, and shows great body control allowing him to make contested catches in traffic. His vertical leap is top-notch, he boxes out smaller DBs, and gives defenders no chance when the ball is thrown high in his direction. Played against some of the best defenses in the country within the SEC and was still able to put up almost 100 yards per game in his final season. Mostly played on the outside, but also lined up in the slot in some instances. Day 1 starter at the X position in my opinion.
2. Jameson Williams (Alabama) *
Went off in his final season in college, putting up 1,572 yards and 15 TDs after transferring to Alabama. I have placed an asterisk next to Williams’ name since he is coming off of a torn ACL suffered in the National Championship game in January. While reports indicate that he is well ahead of schedule in his recovery, I believe we will only find out if he can regain the speed he once had when he steps onto an NFL field for the first time. To me, Williams is a one trick pony – that trick being his elite speed. Most, if not all, of his big plays and TDs were due to the fact that he was simply the fastest player on the field. We’ve seen many players with his skill set bust before, which is why I’m curious to see how his injury and recovery affect his speed going forward. If he cannot run like he once did, then I think he will be an average NFL WR at best. However, if he is fully healthy, he can be a big time deep threat and a potential WR2.
3. Drake London (USC)
In 2021, had more receptions and receiving yards than his previous two years combined. Good height/length at 6’5, 210 lbs, but I believe he will need to add 10-15 pounds to his frame to excel at the next level. Pretty good speed for a WR of his size, London has shown that he can go up and ‘Moss’ defenders. Does show toughness after the catch, many times lowering his shoulder into defenders. Shows some good wiggle in the open field. Needs to improve his route running though, as he ran a lot of go balls in college. Will most likely play Z at the next level but can also line up in the slot to create mismatches with his size.
4. Jahan Dotson (Penn State)
A player who incrementally improved his stats each of his four seasons with the Nittany Lions, which is something I always look for. A little bit of a smaller player, but has very good speed, running a 4.4. Dotson can accelerate to top speed quickly, and is another guy who catches the ball with his hands, away from his body. Excellent start/stop capabilities, as shown when running double moves. Not afraid to run routes over the middle of the field, knowing he is vulnerable to hits by LBs and safeties. Jahan’s highlight reel owns several of the most acrobatic catches you will see during his career. He has a ton of experience playing in cold weather, which will always benefit at the next level. I believe he will be a problem for defenses operating out of the slot.
5. David Bell (Purdue)
A well built prospect at 6’2, 205 lbs. Honestly was not someone I had on my radar coming into the 2021 season but showed that he can be a WR1, with 93 catches and 1,286 yards his senior year. Also had a 1,000+ yard season back in 2019, but was overlooked, playing on a Purdue team that has been known for lackluster offense in years past. Has good hands and is a very reliable target. Smart player who shows that he has a good understanding of defenses as well as excellent spatial awareness. Runs smooth routes. Has a knack for making big plays when his team is in need. The only knock I have against him is his sub-par speed, running a 4.6, 40-time. Overall, a great target who I think can step into a WR2 role early, with the right team.
Others to know:
Christian Watson (North Dakota State)
George Pickens (Georgia)
Charleston Rambo (Miami)
Wan’Dale Robinson (Kentucky)
Khalil Shakir (Boise State)
John Metchie (Alabama)
Calvin Austin (Memphis)
Tyquan Thornton (Baylor)
Reggie Roberson (SMU)
Ty Fryfogle (Indiana)