Top 5 Wide Receivers in the 2017 NFL Draft
4. Zay Jones – 6’2″ 205 lbs. – ECU
Zay Jones is the FBS all-time leader in receptions, with an astounding 399! He’s the brother of former Arizona Wildcat and current Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cayleb Jones. Their father was in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys, so there is plenty of NFL pedigree here.
Zay was a three-star recruit coming out of high school and the no. 203 ranked wide receiver in the 2013 class. But now, he is poised to have a nice career in the NFL.
Strengths:
Jones is a tricky route-runner, who often leaves opposing cornerbacks guessing. He’s a natural at the position, making catches away from his frame with ease. But he also can win at the catch-point, showing the needed aggression and ball skills to beat the defensive back. Zay is also capable of making those difficult catches at weird body angles, even with defenders draped all over him.
Defenses in the FBS knew the ball was going to him, and he still made plays. He even hauled in 22 passes in a single game. His YAC is impressive, as he can pickup extra yards when he gets in the open field.
Coming from a small school is always a concern, but he held his own and produced at the Senior Bowl.
Weaknesses:
There were a ton of screens and short passes thrown his way, so we didn’t get to see much diversity in his route tree. He also needs development on his release, as NFL corners will hit him early and disrupt his timing.
Jones didn’t pop on tape with the speed and athleticism he tested with at the Combine. So you’d like to see his film match his athletic scores.
He wastes movement out of his breaks, giving him inconsistent separation. If he could clean up his comeback route and others, he can be really effective.
Overall:
When you break the NCAA record for receptions, you’re gonna get noticed. Add to a solid showing at the Senior Bowl and Combine, and that’s the makings of a day two pick.
NFL comparison: Marvin Jones
Film score: 78
Athleticism score: 7.8 (elite)
Final score: 79 (Round 1 or 2)