In a wide receiver class that is lacking star power, a possible hidden gem like Jordan Williams could garner closer attention.
What does his 2016 NFL draft scouting report have to say?
Position: WR
School: Ball State
Year: Senior
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 227 lbs
History:
Indianapolis-native who worked his way up the ladder to become the fourth all-time leading receiver at Ball State. All-conference winner all three years he was a starter with exactly 200 catches for his career.
STRENGTHS:
- Ideal size at 6’3″. Boasts the big body and long arms quarterback don’t mind throwing the ball up to.
- Has the explosion and body control to high point the ball, even in double coverage.
- Good concentration, always keeps his eyes on the ball even with defenders draped on him.
- Shows enough quickness and hand technique to get off the jam in press.
- Savvy with his technique and reaction to physical coverage, able to draw flags.
- Willing to give up his body to make the catch but also aware of where the markers are.
WEAKNESSES:
- Typical of bigger receivers he isn’t that fast. Just not going to beat NFL defensive backs down the field.
- Not the most crisp route runner. Lacks suddenness in his motions, making it difficult for him to gain any sort of separation.
- Lacks the ability to create after the catch. Lower body isn’t that strong, making it easy to bring him down once he’s in a defenders’ grasp.
- Streaky hands. Can make some spectacular catches but then drops ones he should’ve caught.
- Needs to get better about coming back to the ball. Too often lets corners beat him to the spot, resulting in interceptions or passes broken up.
Pro Comparison: Alshon Jeffery
From a body standpoint, they are almost identical with the frame and long arms. Williams even runs in a similar fashion. A key difference is in speed. Jeffery is faster, but the Ball State receiver can go up and get the football just like the Pro Bowler and could turn into an inviting target if he learns to run better routes and shows better discipline.
Projection: 5th to 6th round
Jordan William was a productive player each of his three seasons despite playing with some rather lackluster quarterbacks. At the very least he should become a decent red zone target (23 TDs) who has a chance to become more if he ever accepts the work it will take to fine tune his game.