Wide receiver is not a true "need" area for the New York Giants. Sorry, Plaxico Burress fans but that's the truth. The Giants already have lots of talented young receivers. In the modern NFL, though, it can be difficult to turn away from players with explosive speed who can potentially be dynamic, game-changing playmakers.
That brings me to Boise State wide receiver Titus Young, the subject of today's 2011 NFL Draft prospect profile. Young reportedly ran a blazing 4.27 40-yard dash during his Pro Day on Friday, ran his routes well and caught everything thrown to him.
Here is what NFL draft analyst Gil Brandt wrote after Young's performance on Friday:
This kid, you could tell, is a natural pass catcher, and he reminds you a lot of Eagles WR DeSean Jackson, except probably without the kick-return ability. Young definitely helped himself a great deal at the pro day.
No matter how many play-making weapons you think you have, somehow there is always room for another one, especially if he can return kicks -- which Young did at Boise State. Scouting reports after the jump.
Titus Young
WR, Boise State
5-foot-11, 170 pounds
Projection: Round 2
Scouting Reports
From National Football Post:
A thinly put together wideout who lacks ideal girth and muscle tone through both his upper and lower body. However, he's very fluid through his hips and exhibits impressive natural explosion off the line. Consistently eats up the cushion quickly and is one of the few receivers I have seen who really strikes fear into opposing defenders as a vertical threat. Possesses a real second gear down the field and is a consistent big-play guy. Displays good shiftiness off the line of scrimmage as well. Does a nice job quickly beating press with his lateral quickness and a sudden arm over and separating from his man. Is also a pretty gifted and balanced route runner, even when at top speed. Consistently is able to gain significant separation out of his sharply breaking routes and does a nice job staying low and driving back toward the football.
Now, he is undersized and can be pushed around down the field vs. more physical corners and will struggle to fight his way toward the football. He's also very explosive and sudden after the catch, but too often lets the ball get into his frame and isn't the most consistent of pluckers at this stage.
Impression: Reminds me a lot of Chicago wideout Johnny Knox from an athletic standpoint, but is more polished at this stage and could end up having a nice career as an explosive downfield threat.
From Draft Countdown:
Strengths:
- Outstanding athleticism, quickness and agility
- Is explosive with excellent speed and a burst
- Deep threat who can separate and stretch field
- Super elusive with fantastic vision and balance
- Displays great vision and instincts as a runner
- Soft, reliable hands as well as superb ball skills
- Can also contribute as a dangerous return man
Weaknesses:
- Skinny with short arms and small hands
- Needs to polish and refine route running
- Will have lapses in concentration at times
- Might struggle to beat a jam at the line
- May be a bit limited role-wise in the NFL
Overview:
A dynamic vertical weapon who can absolutely fly and may even draw some comparisons to Mike Wallace of the Pittsburgh Steelers --- Probably doesn't profile as a full-time starter at the next level but is versatile and should excel in the slot and as a kick returner.