Jarrett Dillard WR 5'11 185 Rice

Dillard had a very good freshman season for the Owls in 2005, finishing the season with 35 receptions for 524 yards and five touchdowns. That was nothing however, as Dillard blew up as a sophomore, having the best single season for a receiver in Rice history. He caught 91 balls for 1,247 yards and a TD in every game, finishing with 21 total touchdowns on the season. Dillard could not sneak up on people anymore, but he still had a fine junior season catching 79 passes for 1,057 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Strengths

Dillard is a tough matchup on the field. He has very good speed and quickness, allowing him to get open consistently and make plays once the ball is in his hands. He is not afraid to catch the ball underneath and go over the middle while taking a hit, and he also shows the ability to get down the field behind the defense. It’s tough for a corner to cover him because he will go anywhere and do anything needed to catch the football. What separates Dillard from a lot of receivers his size is his ball skills. He has excellent leaping ability, and an uncanny ability to go up and get the ball, adjusting to it in the air.

Weaknesses

Size is the only thing keeping Dillard from being a premier prospect in the draft. His size is average at best, and he may not even be as big as his listed size. That could limit him in the league because he may find it tough to go up and get the ball in the air against bigger corners, and his body may not be able to take going over the middle on a consistent basis.

Future

Dillard is one of the best wide receivers in the college game, but he may not have as much upside as some other receivers coming out this year. He doesn’t have the amazing size that jumps out at you, but the kid knows how to get open and catch the football. The on field ability isn’t a question, but he will need to prove some things in the post season, such as his true size and turning in a solid 40 to maximize his draft position.