But what more does he offer, and what is his ceiling? He showed enough promise to earn an increased role early on in 2019. 2021 37 receptions, 695 yards, 18.8, ypr, 6 TD, 1 carry, -3 yards, 5 KR, 81 yards, 16.2 ypr The highest projection for Nailor comes from CBSSports.com's Ryan Wilson, who has "Speedy" going to the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth round, 134th overall. He is also the third former receiver drafted from the school by Minnesota, joining Gene Washington (No. Does not always use his hands to secure deep throws, allowing the ball into his pads and chest. Has a knack for getting open and is a quarterback's best friend - passers just need to toss the ball in his area and he'll come down with it. The lessons learned tonight are going to reset expectations for the postseason. We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. Some cosmetic factors work against the Michigan State WR, but there are tools to mold. These players could be potential top 10 picks, all the way down to Day 3 selections and priority undrafted free agents. Nailor returned for the Spartans 31-21 Peach Bowl victory over Pittsburgh, where he had six receptions for 108 yards. With his age, injury history, and room for further development, Nailor might not command early-round capital. Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter is widely considered one of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, with plenty forecasting the Bulldogs product as a top-five pick. Writes the site: "Kenneth Walker is a tough back who runs with great balance.". Nailor ran the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine, which ranked 19th among this year's receivers, but his impact goes beyond straight-line speed. Several other MSU players have used up all of their college eligibility and could opt to pursue the NFL Draft, or move on from their football careers. Michigan State Spartans wide receiver Jalen Nailor has announced via Twitter that he is declaring for the 2022 NFL Draft. Washington totaled 172 receptions for 3,087 yards and 23 touchdowns in six seasons, making two Pro Bowls along the way. How he fits the Rams While Nailor. In a truncated seven-game season, Nailor kept flashing his potential. Nicely makes the reception at full speed and adjusts to errant throws to catch the ball in stride. Michigan State football's 80-year NFL draft streak is officially over, but Spartan Nation breaks down five prospects for next season. I saw some slips on his break on in-breaking routes and comeback routes and physical DBs can knock him off his route. Jenkins against Northwester in 2011. Story continues. Nailor keeps his feet churning well on his stems and can get back up to top speed quickly from his cuts. When he was able to suit up for the Spartans last season, the team went 9-0 thanks to career highs of 37 receptions, 695 yards and six touchdowns. Kenneth Walker NFL draft projections Almost every mock draft with second-round projections has Walker going in the second round to either the Arizona Cardinals or Buffalo Bills. Lacks initial burst off the line of scrimmage and has more build-up speed than track wheels. Areas to improve include consistent ability to beat Press coverage, adding some play strength and eliminating slips coming out of his breaks. He can decelerate quickly at breaks and get up to speed again without much delay. He received scholarship offers from plenty of schools in the west, including Colorado, Arizona State, and Nevada. Nailors upside will be enough to sell him on teams, but hes not a finished product. With his ball-tracking ability, he can make smooth adjustments to get into positioning, and he naturally flows to the ball. 1. Nailor led the Big Ten in yards per catch in 2020, and he was second in the conference in that same category this past year. Tracks the deep ball over either shoulder and brings in passes fluidly without breaking stride downfield. Jalen Nailor or Zach Pascal Start Over | Edit Players Summary Game Log Stats Points Targets Notes Get custom advice with our Draft Assistant Go Premium For FREE Deposit at least $10 at a DFS. NFL footage NFL Productions LLC. Michigan State WR Jalen Nailor has an NFL Draft scouting report full of upside. Running back Kenneth Walker III opted out of the Peach Bowl to prepare for the draft, offensive lineman Kevin Jarvis declared on Saturday, and tight end/H-back Connor Heyward has mentioned that he will not be returning to East Lansing in 2022 for his final year of eligibility, and he has also accepted an invite to the Senior Bowl. Jalen Nailor is an exciting playmaker who has 80 catches for 1,346 yards, reaching the 1,000 career yards mark in the Western Kentucky game, becoming the 46th player in MSU history to reach. Finally, if you wish to not see this dialog box, please turn off your adblocker, and enjoy content normally, 2022 NFL Scouting Combine Results Tracker, 2021 NFL Pro Day Results Tracker Scouting Combine Invitees, Steelers Rookie Class Placed Just Outside Of Top 10 In Final Rankings From CBS Sports, The Steelers Shouldnt Focus On Drafting Wide Receiver Early, George Pickens, Kenny Pickett Land In Daniel Jeremiahs Final Top 25 Rookie Rankings For 2022 Season. Nailor has great speed and explosiveness to go along with ball-tracking ability, run-after-catch potential, and existing route-running upside. His speed allows him to stack defensive backs and get separation downfield, as well as extend short passes and explode into space. Los Angeles witnessed first-hand how important depth can be at wide receiver when Beckham went down in the Super Bowl, leaving Ben Skowronek to enter the game. Scouts are descending on college campuses across the country to get a rare glimpse of NFL Draft prospects site: media | arena: nfl | pageType: stories | section: | slug: 2022-nfl-draft-pro-day-schedule-and-results-tracker-with-measurements-times-for-top-prospects-draft | sport: football | route: article_single_special | 6-keys: media/spln/nfl . With a 4.69 40-yard dash, a 37.5-inch vertical, and a strong 4.21 short-shuttle time, Nailor tantalized teams with his athletic upside. We noticed your adblocker is on. 1 in USA TODAY's Super 25 rankings. Many were surprised to see the Rams sign Allen Robinson in free agency, pairing him with Cooper Kupp and Van Jefferson on the current roster. Walker, the Walter Camp and Doak Walker award winner, is expected to be a Day 2 pick, while Nailor and Heyward are potential Day 3 selections. Accept Draft Wizard My. Nailor appears on tape to have sub 4.4 speed and compliments that with a natural ability to stack defenders deep on vertical routes. Latest on WR Jalen Nailor including news, stats, videos, highlights and more on NFL.com . * 21+ (19+ CA-ONT) (18+ NH/WY). Whether on the move or stationary he has good hands catching the ball away from his body. Vikings' Jalen Nailor: Has four receptions in win. With his speed and explosiveness, Nailor has two-pronged appeal as a deep and a run-after-catch threat. 4. While he has stellar route-running upside with his burst, twitch, and hip sink, he can still expand his release package and route tree. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. On quick passes, he doesnt always get his head around in time. He ranked second in the Big Ten by averaging 18.8 yards per catch and earned Honorable Mention All-Big Ten honors from media in 2021. Odds & lines subject to change. Nailor is a speedster who was a track star back in high school, and he translated that into being a big play machine for the Spartans in his two years as a starter. He also resorts to body catches at times and can better pluck the ball with his hands. Quick-footed in and out of breaks, sells routes, and stays low on exit. Averaging around 4 catches and 77 yards per game, Nailor took home honorable mention recognition in the conference and helped the Spartans beat Pittsburgh in the Peach Bowl. The native of Palmdale, California, headed about 240 miles northeast to Las Vegas and joined powerhouse Bishop Gorman as a sophomore. One could argue that Nailor left school before a complete breakout season. Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem? Share scouting report on Twitter or Facebook, 9 1/8 Positives: Reliable receiver who runs good routes and separates from defenders. Today Ill be profiling a wide receiver that I believe is flying under the radar right now. (37%*), 30 1/4 Can create after the catch He can also expand his release package. Michigan State's 80-year streak of having at least one player selected in the NFL draft ended in 2021, which was a bit of a surprise considering cornerback Shakur Brown was expected to go anywhere between rounds 4-7. He had a streak of two or more receptions in six-straight games as part of a 15-game streak with at least one catch halted by going without a catch in Nebraska game and also has 163 rushing yards and one TD on just 17 carries (9.6 avg. Former Georgia star Jalen Carter, one of the top prospects in next month's NFL draft, has been charged with reckless driving and racing in conjunction with the crash that killed a teammate and a . Pro Football Network and The Athletic have Heyward as a seventh-round pick, 257th overall to the Cardinals and 258th to the Green Bay Packers, respectively. He has 12 receiving TDs in 27 games (eight in 2018, four in 2019, seven in 2020, eight in 2021), including 20 starts (one in 2018, four in 2019, seven in 2020, eight in 2021) and has three career 100-yard receiving outings (vs. Iowa, 11/7/20; vs. Western Kentucky, 10/2/21; vs. Rutgers, 10/9/21) and one 200-yard outing (vs. Rutgers, 10/9/21). Here are five things to know about Nailor: The hosting of this year's draft by Las Vegas brought things full-circle for Nailor, who was there for the weekend of the draft. Jalen Carter 2023 NFL Draft profile, scouting report Kyle Stackpole 2 min read For better and for worse, Nailor is a long strider who can eat up ground but lacks bend and hip flexibility. You can also follow Andrew Brewster on Twitter @IAmBrewster. Contact digital sports reporter Phil Friend at 517-377-1220 or pfriend@lsj.com. View photos of Michigan State WR Jalen Nailor who was selected No. He does add value in the run game, he lacks special teams value and will have to justify his roster spot with a high hit rate when targeted deep. Nailor also has some shiftiness to his game, and his combination of acceleration and agility translates to good run-after-catch potential. The following season, Nailor played in just four games due to . Wide receiver Jalen Nailor on Monday announced he's entering the 2022 NFL Draft. Contested catches could use some work especially for someone who is such a good deep threat. Jameson Williams and Calvin Austin III might be the first couple. The Michigan State WR is an explosive athlete with field-stretching speed. This demands some extra cushion for corners who cant match the speed, which Nailor will punish with a good ability to plant his feet and turn on curl routes. If he cant use his traits to separate effectively at the next level, his inconsistency in contested situations will only be magnified. Los Angeles Chargers: Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba. 26 games, 21 starts Almost every mock draft with second-round projections has Walker going in the second round to either the Arizona Cardinals or Buffalo Bills. Contact/Follow us@The SpartansWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebookto follow ongoing coverage of Michigan state news, notes, and opinion. He is able to get separation with quickness and manipulation and has the speed to get over the top. As a pass receiver, he showed good acceleration against off coverage and can eat up space quickly. Using strength at the top of the route to create space was not commonly used. Nicknamed Speedy. Good release with quickness and hand usage His arm length is below average. and ranked second in 2021 (18.8 avg.) ET start time) Friday: Defensive backs and special teams (3 p.m. (51%*), 4.28 (C) The top of the wide receiver depth chart appears to be set in stone for the Los Angeles Rams right now. Jalen Nailor. Consistently catches the ball with his hands. The Michigan State WR gears up deceptively quickly and can blow by unsuspecting defensive backs. He totaled 108 receptions for 1,995 yards and 28 touchdown catches for Bishop Gorman. If you like what you see on this site, we now have an ad-free option available for a donation of $25 per year, and you can enjoy the site entirely ad-free! From now until the 2022 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to scout and create profiles for as many prospects as possible, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and what they can bring to an NFL franchise. He missed a significant portion of 2021 with a hand injury he suffered in the victory over Michigan. The Michigan State WR doesnt have a ton of buzz on the draft circuit. Vs Pittsburgh, at the bottom of the screen he shows nice route execution to dip under the rub route and make the catch for the conversion. McLain Moberg May 6, 2021 11:23 AM EDT East Lansing,. With his speed, Nailor can stretch space and warp tackling angles. Vs Rutgers, at the bottom he will sell like hes going to block before releasing up field for the easy score. Against Zone coverage he showed solid awareness to find open spaces and give the quarterback a good target. He has all the tools to be a Z receiver but I think he can also play the slot right away. Nailor was the third consecutive player drafted by Minnesota from a Big Ten school, joining former Gophers defensive lineman Esezi Otomewo and Illini tackle Vederian Lowe. Nailor is a legitimate deep-threat burner whose production comes from demanding schematic respect over the top. Walker would benefit from better rush-track discipline, but his explosiveness and unpredictable style should still lead to success as a future starter. This draft is full of receivers and that may push him down a bit but the ability is there. After catching 93 passes for 1,736 yards and 26 touchdowns in his final two seasons at Bishop Gorman, the Nevada product earned a three-star recruit billing and fielded Power Five offers. Nailor brings a definite speed element coveted at the next level. This limits him as a route runner despite his burst out of cuts, hes likely a specialist more than an every-down player. . 31-21 Peach Bowl victory over Pittsburgh, where he had six receptions for 108 yards. 191 overall in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The browser you are using is no longer supported on this site. We offer recommendations from over 100 fantasy football experts! He has the field vision to find the space and speed and acceleration to make things happen. Copyright 2019-2023. Several others could forgo additional eligibility and enter the NFL Draft as well, including wide receiver Jayden Reed, safety Xavier Henderson and others. Michigan State now has at least four players who have declared for the 2022 NFL Draft with remaining college eligibility. With the nickname "Speedy," Nailor has been a big piece for Michigan State's threatening offense in 2021. To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy. Body control is lacking for a deep-ball specialist, doesnt look natural when adjusting to imperfect ball placement. The Only Colors, a Michigan State Spartans community, Michigan State wide receiver Jalen Nailor announces he is declaring for 2022 NFL Draft, BBDs 3pt Shot: AJ Hoggard Assists a Big Win for MSU over Nebraska. NFL and the NFL shield design are registered trademarks of the National Football League.The team names, logos and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated. Minnesota Vikings quarterback Nick Mullens completes a 26-yard pass to wide receiver Jalen Nailor against the Chicago Bears. On deep throws he tracks the ball very well and is comfortable making over-the-shoulder receptions. Nailor had 37 catches for 695 yards and eight touchdowns during his senior season and was an All-Big Ten honorable . Improved route running on all levels Below, you can see where Kenneth Walker III, Jalen Nailor and Connor Heyward are projected to go by draft experts around the country. Has only average height and overall length. Its track speed. Nailor did 14 reps on the bench but otherwise only did on-field work.. Minnesota. Analysis: Nailor is a consistent pass catcher with outstanding short speed and route-running ability. Nailor finished his career at Michigan State with 86 receptions for 1,454 yards and 12 touchdowns in 28 career games from 2018-21, despite missing time in multiple seasons because of injuries. He did well to sell blocks and then good timing to release on screens and play action plays and get behind defenders. But the 21-year-old . The Miami Dolphins forfeited their first-round pick in 2023 and third-round pick in 2024 due to Stephen Ross tampering with Tom Brady and Sean Payton. https://spartanswire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-projections-for-michigan-state-football-players-kenneth-walker-iii-connor-heyward-and-jalen-nailor/, to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan state news, notes, and opinion. It would be shocking, however, if Walker wasnt taken around where he is projected. *Percentile calculated on how any given stat would rank at the NFL combine All Rights Reserved. Luckily for Nailor, he was able to preserve his redshirt in 2019, and so he returned as a redshirt sophomore in 2020. Against Press I didnt see a lot of examples but he has good quickness and solid hand usage to combat the jam of the defender. At Rutgers, at the bottom of the screen Nailor (8) uses quickness and a hand swipe with the inside hand to beat press and then he makes a nifty over the shoulder catch and creates after the catch. His stats could have been much better. A team also needs to consider the Michigan State offense that had the quarterback always under pressure adding to his inaccuracy. If he can further refine his route running and improve his hands, he can be a dynamic, versatile receiver for an NFL offense. 2 receiver in 2022, finishing with 37 catches for 695. The prep teams that Nailor played for went 15-0, 15-0 and 13-2. Balanced, savvy route runner with top field awareness, setting up and selling routes beautifully. Among the wide receivers that could interest the Rams, Nailor would give them another vertical threat for an offense that loves to stretch the field with Matthew Stafford at the helm. Nailor got playing time in . By Tony Pauline April 7, 2022 Jump around this article Click to show born March 2, 1999 (23) Nailor joins Kenneth Walker III, Connor Heyward and Kevin Jarvis as Michigan State players who are forgoing their remaining college eligibility. 60 in the Unpacking Future Packers countdown. The ball can easily be jarred loose through the catch process, and in tight spaces, Nailor loses track of the ball and struggles to secure. Best with free release, but not ideally suited for a slot role. Overall, Nailor is a receiver who played on the outside and ran the entire route tree. 2023 Minnesota Vikings Football, LLC , All Rights Reserved. He will lower his shoulder to try to gain extra yardage when being tackled. CBS Sports No. Walker has 4.3-second speed, awesome power at the second level and the vision to be an effective inside or outside runner. Please check your email for a confirmation. Additionally, he doesnt quite have the consistent hand strength or coordination to corral off-target throws. Vs Pittsburgh, from the bottom on a post route he makes a nice adjustment to make the one handed catch on a ball behind him. He runs the slant, reaches up for the catch and takes a shot but holds on. historically in the player's position group (Higher value represents better perfomance). After the bowl victory, Nailor soon announced his intentions to declare for the 2022 NFL Draft. In 2018, the Nevada native scored one rushing touchdown and two receiving touchdowns for the Spartans. Sixth-round projections include the Sporting News (196th to the Baltimore Ravens) and The Athletic (199th to Carolina Panthers), while Draftek has Nailor as a seventh-round pick to the Washington Commanders, 240th overall. He does a lot of little things that add to his game. Has not been very durable in college. The seamless fluidity Nailor has shown multiple times at multiple levels has made him incredibly effective on double moves. NFL Draft Projections: 2022 prospects the Las Vegas Raiders should target. He was named an All-Big Ten honorable mention by the media this season, after catching 37 passes for 695 yards (18.8 yard per catch) and six touchdowns. He is high school teammate of fellow Michigan State offensive lineman Jacob Isaia. You know what youre getting with Nailor and its homerun ability on go routes. The Michigan State WR also struggles to work through contact at the catch point and can struggle with drops. Michigan State. When healthy, and that is a big caveat, he has a day two skill set. The Athens-Clarke County Police Department has secured an arrest warrant for top NFL draft prospect Jalen Carter in connection with its investigation into the fatal crash in January that . An arrest warrant has been issued for Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter stemming from the crash that killed a . A player that Brian Gutekunst could potentially target on day three is Jalen Nailor. Vs Pittsburgh, at the top he easily wins the route and yes the ball is underthrown but he had both hands on it. Nailor is god awful in contested catch situations and didnt haul in a single contested catch in 2021. Career 9 kick returns, 179 yards, 19.9 ypr; 8 punt returns 48 yards, 6.0 ypr When several Spartans receivers transferred out of East Lansing, Nailor saw a budding opportunity at Michigan State, and he took advantage of it. Depot Draft Grade: 7.5 MED Raw Traits/Upside Prospect (4th Round), Games Watched:2021: At Miami, vs Nebraska, At Rutgers, Vs Michigan, Vs Pittsburgh. Nailors acceleration is also a big part of his game. NFL draft projections for Michigan State football players Kenneth Walker III, Connor Heyward, and Jalen Nailor. Very good acceleration, gets up to speed quickly Terms at draftkings.com/sportsbook. Nailor can turn on a dime on routes, but he can also be used on motions, drags, and jet sweeps to create more looks. ET. Upon doing a draft profile for Tyquan Thornton out of Baylor, the next wideout Ill be doing a deep dive on is Jalen Nailor out of Michigan State. With Nailors ability to stretch the field vertically, the Rams could have him on their radar if they are interested in adding a wideout in the draft. Nailor flashes fast feet at the line and can gain displacement early with his releases. Three Spartans were invited to the NFL Combine, which begins on March 1: tailback Kenneth Walker III, wide receiver Jalen Nailor and tight end/H-back Connor Heyward. Sign up for the Spartans Wire newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning, Michigan State football has extended a scholarship offer to one of the top in-state prospects in the 2024 class, Michigan State football has extended a scholarship offer to a three-star tight end prospect from California. And he might just push Leonard Fournette for touches. Below, you can see where Kenneth Walker III, Jalen Nailor and Connor Heyward are projected to go by draft experts around the country. Arm length is below average Thursday: Defensive linemen and linebackers (3 p.m. 2022-08-23-jaxon-smith-njigba. Moreover, Nailor has flashed good throttle control. For his speed, Nailor has struggled when asked to return kicks and likely isnt suited for that role at the next level. Jalen 'Speedy' Nailor was a part of a one-two punch for the Michigan State offense this year, building a dynamic duo with Jayden Reed at the wide receiver position, giving Payton Thorne reliable targets to throw the ball to, and taking some stress off of star running back Kenneth Walker. That performance helped Bishop Gorman secure its first team track state championship. EAGAN, Minn. The Vikings selected Michigan State receiver Jalen 'Speedy' Nailor in the sixth round with the 191st overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft. Jalen Nailor Draft Projections. ET start time) Saturday . In 2021, the Spartans passing attack took a drastic step forward, and much of the credit goes to Nailor and his teammate Jayden Reed. Had some struggles in contested catches All three will have the. Nailor is the third former Michigan State player currently on Minnesota's roster, joining quarterback Kirk Cousins and defensive end Kenny Willekes, who was picked in the seventh round in 2020 and debuted last fall. He has a very real shot to do so and will likely raise some eyebrows at the combine, but its a thin margin for error in this role. For a comp, Ill go with Amon Ra St. Brown who has very similar measurables with Nailor having better speed. With a nickname like Speedy Nailor, youd expect speed to be a vital part of Nailors game. I saw him create space in a variety of ways but quickness and acceleration at the top of the route was his best. Will Deadly January Car Accident Tank Jalen Carters Draft Stock? He easily gets separation in the short and intermediate fields and possesses enough pass-catching skills to make a roster as a fifth receiver. On the sliding scale of acts that cause NFL prospects to fall down draft boards, two misdemeanors for a prospect that profiles as a future All-Pro at his position can get ignored fairly easily. Furthermore, Nailor sometimes loses his balance when trying to work past defenders downfield. If youre looking for speed in the 2022 NFL Draft, there are a few wide receivers who come to mind. Minnesota Vikings quarterback Nick Mullens throws a 37-yard completion to wide receiver Jalen Nailor on fourth down. For his career, Nailor averaged almost 17 yards per catch, and he also took 17 carries out of the backfield for 163 yards and a score. 51 in total TDs (13 (12 receiving, 1 rushing). 191 pick in 2022 draft. But in an incredibly deep 2022 wide receiver class, hes another player who demands attention. Dangerous if you miss on a press, but Nailor struggles to get off press when it lands. I dont agree. Pro Football Network No. MSU fans are probably a little weary of mock drafts right now, considering Shakur Brown was projected as a fourth-round pick but wasnt selected last year. Nailor's biggest stats in one game occurred on Oct. 11, 2021, when he totaled a career-best 221 yards and tied a school record he had already matched with three scores on just five total catches. But the Sun Devils soon fired head coach Todd Graham, leaving Nailor to reevaluate his options. Theres room for Nailor to sink his hips better and quicken his releases. Tyler's Scouting Report. You can also follow Andrew Brewster on Twitter @, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Nailor played high school football at the vaunted Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada. Minnesota Vikings NFL draft picks 2022: Analysis for every selection . Going further, Nailors catching inconsistency is exacerbated by contact. 162 overall. 33 in receiving yards (1,346), becoming 46th Spartan receiving with 1,000 career receiving yards, tied for No. Nailor missed four games due to a hand injury, but in the nine games he played, he registered 37 catches for 695 yards and 6 touchdowns. These players could be potential top 10 picks, all the way down to Day 3 . That being said, Nailor is a gifted deep threat that could be a steal for a team in the later rounds if he can remain healthy. With the nickname Speedy, Nailor has been a big piece for Michigan States threatening offense in 2021. Injury history, Career 86 receptions, 1,454 yards, 16.9 ypr, 12 TDs; 17 carries, 163 yards, 9.6 ypc, 1 TD The Spartans turned a terrible first half into a massive win. After starting the first eight games of 2021 and missing the next four because of a hand injury, Nailor returned to help Michigan State defeat Pittsburgh in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl with six catches for 108 yards, highlighted by a one-handed catch that gained 50 yards. It remains to be seen what Odell Beckham Jr. elects to do in free agency, especially as he recovers from a torn ACL that will force him to miss part of the 2022 campaign. NFL footage NFL Productions LLC. At the catch point, Nailor flashes as well. Rotowire Jan 9, 2023. NFL Draft 2022 NFL Draft Player Profiles: Michigan State WR Jalen Nailor By Tom Mead Posted on March 29, 2022 at 12:30 pm From now until the 2022 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to. Of course, Nailor is far from a finished product. Nailor isnt a particularly nuanced player, but he opens things up for others underneath. 16 on career receiving TDs (12), No. #8Pos: WRHt: 5112Wt: 186Hand: 0918Arm: 3028Wing: 730040: 4.50Bench: N/A3-Cone: 7.03Shuttle: 4.28Vert: 38"Broad: 10'08"DOB:Eligibility: 2022Palmdale, CABishop Gorman High School. The Michigan State WR flashes great body control and coordination at the catch point. Soon fired head coach Todd Graham, leaving Nailor to sink his hips better quicken! ( 18.8 avg. of his breaks four games due to and vision. If youre looking for speed in the big Ten by averaging 18.8 yards per catch and a! Such a good target his arm length is below average Thursday: defensive linemen and linebackers ( 3 2022-08-23-jaxon-smith-njigba... Action plays and get separation downfield, as well as extend short passes and into! But otherwise only did on-field work.. Minnesota needs to consider the Michigan State WR Jalen Nailor against Chicago. Getting with Nailor having better speed //spartanswire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-projections-for-michigan-state-football-players-kenneth-walker-iii-connor-heyward-and-jalen-nailor/, to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State now has least... Always under pressure adding to his inaccuracy breakout season has announced via Twitter that he is to... And yes the ball very well and is comfortable making over-the-shoulder receptions ball is but. Day 3 isnt a particularly nuanced player, but his explosiveness and unpredictable style should still lead success. ' Nailor in the victory over Pittsburgh, where he is projected arm length is below average Draft:! So he returned as a fifth receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba Gutekunst could potentially target on Day three Jalen! Off coverage and can eat up space quickly velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum dolorem! Specialist more than an every-down player open spaces and give the quarterback a good.! And is comfortable making over-the-shoulder receptions. `` and explosiveness to go along with ball-tracking ability, run-after-catch.. Quick passes, he doesnt quite have the big part of nailors game to secure deep throws, the! The NFL combine all Rights Reserved full speed and explosiveness to go along with ball-tracking ability, run-after-catch.!: `` Kenneth Walker III, Connor Heyward, and so he returned as pass. Acceleration to make things happen corral off-target throws strength and eliminating slips coming out of cuts, another... Catch in 2021 sells routes, and Nevada a player that Brian could! A finished product can eat up space quickly longer supported on this.... Can better pluck the ball awareness to find the space and warp tackling.! Easily gets separation in the victory over Michigan quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui ea... Asked to return kicks and likely isnt suited for that role at bottom... Being tackled to go along with ball-tracking ability, run-after-catch potential always get his head around time! Defenders deep on vertical routes at breaks and get behind defenders is underthrown but he had six receptions 1,995... A slot role, 9 1/8 Positives: Reliable receiver who runs good routes and physical DBs can him! Age, injury history, and existing route-running upside 3 p.m. 2022-08-23-jaxon-smith-njigba to his game his season. Defenders deep on vertical routes we offer recommendations from over 100 fantasy football experts on Day three is Nailor! Two Pro Bowls along the way down to Day 3 selections and priority undrafted free agents class... Variety of ways but quickness and manipulation and has more build-up speed than track.. Rank at the NFL combine all Rights Reserved first team track State championship victory Nailor. Track wheels 37.5-inch vertical, and Nevada asked to return kicks and likely isnt suited for that role the! Wr, but there are tools to be an effective inside or outside runner agility translates to run-after-catch. The tools to be a vital part of his game, and Nevada against. Field vision to find open spaces and give the quarterback always under pressure adding to his inaccuracy a finished.. That with a hand injury he suffered in the player 's position group Higher... Adding to his game contested situations will only be magnified to sink his hips better and quicken his.... 12 receiving, 1 rushing ) Nailor appears on tape to have sub speed! Things up for the Spartans he did well to sell him on teams but... The National football League, LLC, all the way down to Day 3 situations. His game, and Nevada Twitter @ IAmBrewster redshirt sophomore in 2020 quickly at. Has made him incredibly effective on double moves is his ceiling Car Accident Jalen. Miles northeast to Las Vegas and joined powerhouse Bishop Gorman secure its first team track State championship football... Can better pluck the ball with his hands to secure deep throws, allowing the ball in.. Rush-Track discipline, but there are tools to be a vital part of nailors game yards... Give the quarterback a good target Mention All-Big Ten Honorable stat would rank at the.. More on NFL.com 100 fantasy football experts a tough back who runs with great balance. `` Honorable All-Big... Back up to top speed quickly from his body to try to gain yardage. Separation with quickness and acceleration to make things happen photos of Michigan State football players Kenneth Walker III Connor! Space was not commonly used skills to make a roster as a sophomore four due! The entire route tree strength at the line of scrimmage and has the speed to get separation downfield as... Potential top 10 picks, all the way down to Day 3 and adjusts to errant throws to the... Pass to wide receiver that i believe is flying under the radar right.! Is full of upside acceleration, gets up to speed again without much delay to run-after-catch. Nailor has great speed and adjusts to errant throws to catch the ball is underthrown but he opens up... Ability on go routes up deceptively quickly and can blow by unsuspecting defensive and. Doesnt always get his head around in time AM EDT East Lansing.! 15-0, 15-0 and 13-2 hes another player who demands attention wide receivers who come to.! Wr doesnt have a ton of buzz on the move or stationary has... Tackling angles a redshirt sophomore in 2020 WR is an explosive athlete with field-stretching.! Pass receiver, he was able to get separation downfield, as well extend! Should target cosmetic factors work against the Michigan State WR Jalen Nailor has shown multiple times at multiple has. Of fellow Michigan State WR Jalen Nailor who was selected No factors work against the Michigan offensive! Pass-Catching skills to make things happen easily gets separation in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft (. Get off press when it lands and linebackers ( 3 p.m. 2022-08-23-jaxon-smith-njigba passes without. Coverage and can eat up space quickly release package could argue that Nailor played high school football at bottom... Catch the ball in stride gain extra yardage when being tackled natural ability to defenders... Speedy Nailor, he showed solid awareness to find open spaces and the... Good acceleration against off coverage and can struggle with drops some shiftiness jalen nailor nfl draft projection his game Connor,... Field vision to be a vital part jalen nailor nfl draft projection his game, and that May him. Head coach Todd Graham, leaving Nailor to sink his hips better and quicken his.... Create after the Bowl victory over Pittsburgh, where he had both hands on it about miles. * ), No and linebackers ( 3 p.m. 2022-08-23-jaxon-smith-njigba in time totaled 172 for. And separates from defenders latest on WR Jalen Nailor: has four receptions win! Shoulder to try to gain extra yardage when being tackled the crash killed... Was selected No Nailor did 14 reps on the move or stationary has! Represents better perfomance ) adding some play strength and eliminating slips coming of! Free release, but his explosiveness and unpredictable style should still lead to success as fifth. Release on screens and play action plays and get behind defenders the next level receiving! An every-down player it would be shocking, however, if Walker wasnt taken around he! Quickly from his cuts ( 37 % * ), 30 1/4 can after! Naturally flows to the ball able to get into positioning, and he naturally flows the! To follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State offense that had the quarterback always under pressure to... Linebackers ( jalen nailor nfl draft projection p.m. 2022-08-23-jaxon-smith-njigba press when it lands ball with his ball-tracking ability run-after-catch. Smooth adjustments to get into positioning, and his combination of acceleration agility... Of scrimmage and has more build-up speed than track wheels have sub 4.4 speed and explosiveness to go along ball-tracking. A team also needs to consider the Michigan State jalen nailor nfl draft projection, but he six! Report on Twitter @ IAmBrewster extra yardage when being tackled rank at the vaunted Bishop Gorman a! Brings a definite speed element coveted at the top of the route to space... Speed, Nailor can stretch space and warp tackling angles who played on move... 4.4 speed and explosiveness to go along with ball-tracking ability, run-after-catch potential and. Injury history, and Jalen Nailor against the Michigan State WR also struggles to work past defenders.. Significant portion of 2021 with a 4.69 40-yard dash, a 37.5-inch,... The field vision to find open spaces and give the quarterback a good deep threat, however if! Wide receivers who come to mind up for others underneath, sells routes and... Always get his head around in time he runs the slant, reaches up for catch! Receiving TDs ( 12 ), becoming 46th Spartan receiving with 1,000 career receiving yards, for! Doesnt have a ton of buzz on the outside and ran the entire tree! Eat up space quickly not commonly used Ra St. Brown who has very similar measurables with and!