Ryan Broyles 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes

Our work is never finished here at Mocking the Draft as we are already looking to 2012.  The summer will feature a lot of prospect evaluations that we will build upon during the season.

Ryan Broyles
5'11, 187 pounds | Wide receiver | Oklahoma

First word: Broyles had a sensational 2010 season with 131 receptions for 1,622 yards and 14 touchdowns. Set nine school records in 2010 and had 10 games of 100 yards or more receiving. He might not have the size or athletic upside of other wide receivers, but he might have the best hands. Broyles is a true threat working the middle part of the field on slants. He's elusive with the ball in his hands and will be able to contribute returning punts.

Bold statement: Broyles will be the best pure slot wide receiver in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Games viewed: Connecticut ('10), Nebraska ('10), Baylor ('10), Missouri ('10), Texas ('10), Florida State ('10), Stanford ('09), Nebraska ('09), Texas ('09).

Ryan Broyles
5'11, 187 pounds | Wide receiver | Oklahoma

Notes:

• The big, obvious negative that holds Broyles down is his size. He can have trouble getting open over the top, isn't a jump ball target and won't break many tackles.

• Possesses exceptional hands and routinely catches the ball outside his frame.

• Struggles beating the jam at the line of scrimmage.

• Broyles is at his best playing out of the slot when he can work over the middle, underneath.

• Has a lot of toughness for a player of his size. Doesn't mind getting hit when working the middle.

• There won't be a lot better receivers in the 2012 class better at taking apart zone coverage. Has good vision to find a hole in the defense and putting himself in a position to be open.

• Plays faster than he'll time in the 40-yard dash. Relies more on a good short-area burst and agility to get open.

• Is a good punt return man because of his elusiveness in the open field. Has some wiggle to his game.

• Shouldn't be expected to be a team's No. 1 receiver. Compares favorably to Mario Manningham of the New York Giants.

• Has some injury history (broken collarbone in 2009) and character issues (arrested for stealing gas as a freshman).