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2015 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Arizona State WR Jaelen Strong

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By @bradberreman24

Jaelen Strong, Arizona State, 2015 NFL Draft

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

This year’s NFL Draft is deep with good options at wide receiver, much like 2014, as multiple players at the position are considered likely first-round picks. Jaelen Strong declared for the draft after a productive two seasons at Arizona State (157 receptions and 17 touchdowns), and after a good showing at the NFL Combine he may now be locked in as a first-round pick.

Here’s my scouting report on Strong, starting with his notable numbers from the combine.

Height: 6’2″
Weight: 217 lbs.
40-Yard Dash: 4.44 seconds
High Jump: 42″ (second-best among wide receivers),
 Broad Jump: 10’3″ (tied for ninth-best among wide receivers)
 Arm Length: 32-1/2″
Hand Size: 9″

Strengths

- Has ideal size and frame-looks the part

- Wins in contested catch situations more often than not

- Is a solid route runner-is able to defeat press coverage consistently

- Catches the ball with his hands very well-has a wide catch radius

- Is elusive and decisive after the catch

Weaknesses

- Needs to improve overall skills and instincts as a blocker-looks hesitant too often

- Lacks top-end speed to consistently separate downfield

- Seems to struggle judging and adjusting to deep passes at times; could extend and pluck the ball better in those situations

NFL Comparisons: Marques Colston (Dane Brugler of CBS Sports.com) and Dwayne Bowe (Lance Zierlein of NFL Media)

Overview

Strong’s “track speed” at the combine does not translate to great vertical speed on the field, but otherwise there is a lot to like about him. He won’t be the first, or probably second or third wide receiver drafted, but the Kansas City Chiefs at No. 18 overall should be more than happy to add Strong if they don’t have a chance at Amari Cooper, Kevin White or DeVante Parker. Otherwise, the Cincinnati Bengals would have to take a long look at Strong if he is available at No. 21.

Brad Berreman is a Columnist/Senior Writer at Rant Sports.com. Follow him on Twitter.

 

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