2013 NFL Draft: Justin Hunter Prospect Profile

Sep 22, 2012; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Justin Hunter (11) catches a touchdown pass against the Akron Zips during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee defeated Akron, 47-26. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

The University of Tennessee had a forgettable season in 2012 despite having future NFL players Tyler Bray, Cordarelle Patterson, Dallas Thomas and the target of this prospect profile Justin Hunter on their team. Hunter was the more consistent of the wide receiver duo, although Patterson has received all the hype from scouts around the league. With his sheer size advantage, Hunter should be on the radar for any team in need of a go to wide receiver.

Measurables:

Strengths:

When Justin Hunter steps onto the field you immediately notice his size, at 6’4” he towers over most cornerbacks. He uses this to his advantage, especially when the Volunteers enter the red zone. Back corner fades and jump balls are his two biggest weapons, he catches the ball at its highest point not needing to use his body to corral the ball. Hunter can also use his size when blocking downfield on screen plays to Patterson or during running plays.

Hunter crosses the middle with no regard for the big hit, as most quarterbacks will be appreciative of. While he doesn’t have the same explosive speed since tearing his ACL during his sophomore year, Hunter gets up the field quickly using his long strides. He can be very dangerous with the ball in his hands, making defenders miss he racks up the yards after the catch.

Weaknesses:

Even as Hunter can be dangerous after the catch, he tends to have negative plays. Dancing around and running in the wrong direction looking for a crease in the defense. This causes Hunter to get caught trying to make a big play; turning a ten yard gain to a five yard gain is going to be an issue for Hunter that can be coached.

Hunter seems to have mental lapses throughout games, as is evident with the number of passes he drops. His drops are obviously not from his ability, he has exceptional hands. Even with his high number of drops, Hunter was the victim in a lot of cases of suspect quarterback play.

Projection:

Hunter should get the attention of most teams in search of a number two wide receiver. He can play the outside and slot positions equally, creating mismatches against the defense. Justin Hunter should know which team he will be playing for early on day two if not earlier. Most scouts undervalue Hunter, as I have him rated as a late first round wide receiver.

Grade: 8.0/10.0