2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jonathan Baldwin

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Strengths:
  • Prototypical size and length
  • Focuses and doesn't drop many passes
  • Great body control and athleticism
  • Knows how to use frame and shield corners
  • Attacks ball at its apex
  • Terrific hands and plucks the football
  • Reliable and consistent
  • Red zone terror
  • Physical runner; doesn't go down easy
  • Fearless over the middle
  • Gets a lot of Y.A.C.
  • Nice hand-eye coordination
  • Shows awareness as a receiver
  • Long strider
  • No. 1 receiver potential at next level
  • Elite catch radius
  • Good run blocker



    Weaknesses:
  • Route running needs improvement
  • Not a huge vertical threat
  • Speed is above average, but nothing special
  • Lacks a special second gear to be a home run threat
  • A little sluggish coming in/out of breaks

    Summary: Baldwin brings enough to the table to be viewed as a No. 1 receiver in the NFL, but I don't see him being an elite receiver because he seems to lack the speed and route running (unless this develops in time). Baldwin is a consistent possession receiver who moves the chains and is a difficult cover due to his size and talent. I have a first-round grade on Baldwin going into the 2011 season and his name should be called in the top 30 picks when it's all said and done.

    Player Comparison: Brandon Marshall. Marshall has slightly better speed than Baldwin, but both are fearless, consistent possession receivers.





    RELATED LINKS:


    2011 NFL Mock Draft: Matt's | Walt's


    2011 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings


    2011 NFL Draft Scouting Reports