2020 NFL Draft Grades: Jacksonville Jaguars swing for the fences
By Evan Bachman
WR. Laviska Shenault Jr.. 52. Scouting Report. Colorado. 2. player. Pick Analysis
Laviska Shenault is one of the most fascinating prospects in the entire draft. He is not only fantastic as a pass catcher but can be utilized in the run game as well. Colorado had him take wildcat snaps all the time and they handed him the ball on jet sweeps as well. He was utilized in the wildcat a lot in short-yardage situations where he’d use his size and physicality to his advantage.
As a receiver he is a good route runner, he runs his routes with good speed and is quick in and out of his breaks. He also has good hands and body control and has shown the ability to come down with jump balls. The best part of his game is how dangerous he is with the ball in his hands. He has forced 44 missed tackles since 2018, which is the most in the country for a receiver. His combination of power and quickness is very unique and gives defensive coordinators nightmares.
In 2018 he had insane production, he recorded 86 catches for 1011 yards in just 9 games. Before the season started he was considered a likely top 10 pick, but he didn’t produce as much as a receiver last season, so the lack of production last season and his injury history caused his stock to fall.
His injuries at Colorado were nothing major, but were concerning enough for NFL teams to cause him to fall into the second round in a loaded receiving class. His injuries include a lorn labrum, a turf toe, and a groin injury, which he had at the combine but still he still ran the 40 yard dash in 4.58 seconds, which sounds bad for a receiver, but considering he ran it while injured actually makes it pretty impressive.
Ultimately, while he does have injury concerns, this is still one of the best value picks in the draft. Shenault is a unique talent and gives newly hired offensive coordinator Jay Gruden a weapon that can be used in a variety of different ways.