With The First Pick
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2021 NFL Draft: WR Jaylen Waddle has sky-high upside but needs experience

By Nicholas McGee

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 01: Jaylen Waddle #17 of the Alabama Crimson Tide scores a 51-yard touchdown in the third quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs during the 2018 SEC Championship Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 01: Jaylen Waddle #17 of the Alabama Crimson Tide scores a 51-yard touchdown in the third quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs during the 2018 SEC Championship Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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2021 NFL Draft: WR Jaylen Waddle has sky-high upside but needs time
2021 NFL Draft: WR Jaylen Waddle has sky-high upside but needs time. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Positives

Waddle possesses legitimate track star speed, he has tremendous burst off the line and can get over the top of defenses in a hurry.

He rapidly eats up cushion when going against off coverage, with his remarkable acceleration allowing Waddle to pull away from defenders in the open field after the catch.

Waddle is an elusive runner with the ball in his hands who is a substantial threat on screen passes because of his combination of speed, change of direction ability and vision.

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That same blend of traits has been key to Waddle’s success in the return game. He has returned two punts and a kickoff for touchdowns in his career at Alabama.

His agility and lower body flexibility have been key features of Waddle’s route running. He uses his foot speed intelligently to create separation with his stem and his ability to change direction in an instant mid-route has made Waddle an exceptionally tough cover for collegiate defenders.

Waddle runs routes with impressive sink in his hips and is not afraid to get physical with opposing defensive backs. He will use his body to help generate separation and has regularly utilized his hands to avoid the attentions of physical corners.

At the catch point, Waddle plays above his size, demonstrating his capability for high-pointing the football and making contested grabs. He tracks the football very well and has the body control to adjust to inaccurate passes while in mid-air.

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