2023 BCS WR Scouting Report
Player: Jaxon Smith-Njigba
School: Ohio State
Year: Junior
Games Watched: Toledo (22), Rutgers (21), Akron (21), Penn State (21)
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Route Running: Very good route runner. Elite agility, has the ability to turn defenders around. Runs a good route tree.
Blocking: Doesn’t have standard size or strength to be a blocker, but utilizes explosiveness of the line to meet defenders and be a plus in screens and runs. Gives it his all.
Contested Catch Ability: Came down with a good amount of his contested catch opportunities. Isn’t elite, but a QB can toss it up to him with confidence.
Separation: Creative against man coverage. Inconsistent in creating space versus zone, but shows very good flashes of exposing blindspots.
Ball Skills: Only 6 career drops, half of which came in one game. Very reliable target.
Beating Press: Possesses a good release package. Explodes off the line and has lightning quick feet.
YAC Ability: One of the best YAC producers in the country. Showcases his elite agility and understanding of space to avoid contact.
Ball Tracking: Highly aware, makes his way towards the ball. Good timing with the quarterback.
Long Speed: Doesn’t have elite long speed, but is more than serviceable on deep routes.
Versatility: Size and lack of long speed make him exclusively a slot receiver, but one that can be used in blocking when needed. Will still take away attention from other receivers.
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Route Running (15) – 13
Beating Press (10) – 9
Blocking (5) – 3
YAC Ability (10) – 9
Contested Catch Ability (10) – 7
Ball Tracking (10) – 9
Separation (10) – 8
Long Speed (10) – 6
Ball Skills (10) – 8
Versatility (10) – 6
Grade: 78/100 – Day 2
Summary: Jaxon Smith-Njigba only has one season of production, as injuries hindered his 2022 campaign. However, in 2021, he showcased the ability to be a very productive slot receiver. In an offense with Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, he racked up 1,595. He can create versus both man and zone, and runs a full route tree. His concerns are his size, long speed, and one year of productivity. However, if he lands on the right team, he should be able overcome those concerns as a very capable player with the ceiling of one of the best slot receivers in the league.
Filed By: Pat Pryor
Twitter: Pryor NFL