KD Cannon highlights: New York Jets undrafted free agent
The New York Jets acquired former Baylor WR K.D. Cannon off of waivers. Here are some of his collegiate highlights and what he brings to the table…
The New York Jets added a lot of speed and quickness in the 2017 NFL Draft with Alabama’s ArDarius Stewart and California’s Chad Hansen. They weren’t finished there, however, as a former big time receiver at Baylor — KD Cannon — surprisingly became available.
The Jets had every opportunity to draft Cannon, of course, but like all 32 teams in the NFL, they passed. Cannon became one of the most highly sought after undrafted free agents on the market and wound up signing with the San Francisco 49ers.
After rookie camp with the Niners, Cannon was quickly cut. It came as nothing short of a shock, but the Niners made a bit of an example out of Cannon for his apparent lack of effort, and the Jets cashed in, claiming him off the waiver wire.
Cannon had two seasons with over 1,000 yards receiving at Baylor and 27 touchdowns in three years, including 13 this past season. His greatest asset as a receiver is his ability to create separation with speed. Cannon is solid after the catch, showing elusiveness in the open field and tackle breaking ability.
Cannon set the track on fire at the Scouting Combine this year with a stellar 4.41 second 40-yard dash. Coming out of Baylor, the big question is whether or not he can handle the rigors of running an NFL route tree. It’s not just going to be a hitch, go, or screen at this level.
Next: 2017 NFL Draft: Best and worst picks for all teams
That said, the Jets definitely have a playmaker on their hands here and someone who can potentially crack the roster as a UDFA with Devin Smith out for the season.
Cannon will have to prove he can do something he didn’t do at Baylor — play special teams — to make an NFL roster in 2017.