Jamison Crowder: Duke WR 2015 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Joe Wedra
A weak 2015 NFL Draft class at wide receiver might be sparked by a sleeper that some scouts are comparing to high-level NFL players. Duke WR Jamison Crowder, a guy that had massive production in college, is a guy to watch as every NFL team enters the heavy scouting process.
Here’s a quick scouting report on Crowder, one that includes a projection at current draft stock and potential next-level production.
STRENGTHS
Crowder is a sneaky good athlete that draws comparisons to Wes Welker for good reason. He may not have the elite long speed that some guys his size do, but he gets the job done by playing a very crafty game inside the numbers.
At the end of the day, it’s impossible to overlook his production at Duke and the role he played on an offense that needed every bit of help it could get. With 283 receptions, 3,641 and 23 receiving touchdowns as a Blue Devil, the 5’9″ wideout proved to be a workhorse.
Crowder also handled punt return duties, taking two to the house in both his junior and senior seasons.
WEAKNESSES
Crowder certainly doesn’t have impressive size, but his strong build makes him less of an injury risk. With that said, the issues at the next level could lie against corners that succeed in press coverage.
It’s highly-documented on film that getting off the line isn’t exactly a strong-suit in Crowder’s game. While many receivers in the NFL have the same issue, Crowder’s size potentially limits him to a situational role guy in a pass-first offense.
DRAFT STOCK
There’s a lot to like when you turn on the tape here. With the right role, Crowder can be successful immediately in the NFL. He could be limited to special teams in his first year, but the future looks bright. I’ll go with a mid-late third round grade. Anything into Day Three will be considered a steal.