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J.R. Russell WR Louisville 6’3 206
By: Robert Davis

J.R. Russell burst onto the scene as a junior, after two years as a reserve wideout for the Cardinals. After combining for 38 passes and 438 yards and 4 touchdowns his first two years in the program, he put up 1,213 yards on 75 catches, with 8 touchdowns as a junior. He earned all conference first team honors for that performance. As a senior, his numbers again were very impressive, when he finished the season with 73 catches for 968 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Russell has one of the best size/speed ratios for a wideout in this years draft. He is a legit 6’3, and has the speed to take it the distance and outrun the defense. He also knows how to use his size going up for the ball in single coverage, or by going across the middle and absorbing a hit. He displays very soft hands when he uses his hands to catch the ball.

Despite having good long range speed, Russell does not have great short area quickness. He’s not a guy who’s going to make people miss and make big plays. He also tends to let the ball get into his chest too often. Although he has good hands, he needs to use his hands to catch the ball more often.

With his size, speed, and production, Russell looks like a very solid prospect. He was a key part of the explosive Louisville attack over the past two years, and he now hopes to have the same impact with an NFL team. He should hear his name called in the third round area of the draft.

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