The wide receiver position is becoming a strong need for many teams now that the league is passing more than ever.  We are now seeing 6’4”, 6’5”, and even 6’6” former basketball players posing as wide receivers and becoming big time threats in the NFL.  This year’s wide receiver class isn’t as strong as in year’s past, but is still filled with potential big play threats in the NFL.

James Hardy, Indiana – Hardy is a 6’5” 217 pound red zone threat that showed great top end speed running a 4.47 at the combine.  This wide receiver class is very tight, and what separates Hardy is just that, separation.  Watching coach’s tapes of Hardy, he’s the only guy who’s tapes and highlights are with press coverage.  Unlike some other taller receivers, Hardy knows how to use his body and is almost unstoppable in jump ball situations.  With a less than great QB Hardy put up gaudy numbers, including 10-142-2TD against Justin King of Penn State and 36 career touchdowns in three seasons. 

Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma – After Hardy, there are big questions on every prospect, but Kelly’s explosiveness and size (with ability to put on more weight) put him at number two.  Kelly is a 6’3” 224 pound deep threat that, if healthy, can step in and be effective because of his great hands and exceptional route running abilities. 

Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech – Royal was a standout at the combine physically with 24 bench reps, 4.39 40, 36” vertical, but the most impressive workout he had was the on-field drills.  Royal showed great hands, route running, and body control.  Royal has an excellent ability to get in and out of his breaks quickly, as well as getting to top speed in a few steps.  

Sleeper: Adarius Bowman, Oklahoma State – Bowman is considered a sleeper because his stock is going to fall after a poor 4.69 40.  Bowman (6’2” 223lbs) is an Anquan Boldin (6’1” 216lbs and a 4.71 40) clone on the field.  Bowman won’t wow you with speed, but he will get big yards after catch and one guy will not bring him down.  His breakout game was in 2006 against Kansas when he recorded 13-300-4TD’s.  The negative?  He needs to improve his concentration in catching the ball.  Bowman can be had in the third round or later, unless he tremendously improves his 40 time at his pro day. 

Potential Bust:  DeSean Jackson, California – DeSean Jackson reminds everyone of Ted Ginn with his slender 167lb frame and blazing speed.  The problem is Jackson never stepped up and became a dominant receiver at Cal.  His route running is limited and although he got a lot of free releases in college, he was rarely pressed.  Jackson will probably be taken in the first round this season, but his impact will not be as large as some other receivers and he may never be a number one receiver in the NFL.

Top 10 Wide Receivers in 2008 Draft

1. James Hardy – INDIANA
2. Malcolm Kelly – OKLAHOMA
3. Eddie Royal – VIRGINIA TECH
4. Limas Sweed – TEXAS
5. Mario Manningham – MICHIGAN
6. Devin Thomas – MICHIGAN STATE
7. Marcus Henry – KANSAS
8. Adarius Bowman – OKLAHOMA STATE
9. Ryan Grice-Mullen – HAWAII
10. DeSean Jackson – CALIFORNIA