Scouting The Draft:Tyler Lockett, WR, Kansas State

Introduction

Like many other NFL prospects, Tyler Lockett was born into a football family. Both his father and uncle played for K-State. It was inevitable that Tyler would follow in their footsteps. Come April, he will have a chance to surpass both of them. Lockett played on both sides of the ball in high school. He thrived at both receiver and defensive back.

In Lockett's first year, he was used sparingly as a receiver, but started to make a name for himself as a return man. He found the end zone twice. He was named 1st team Walter Camp All-American as a kickoff returner. He was also named the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year. In his second year, Tyler was beginning to be used more on offense. It was abundantly clear how dangerous he could be as a primary receiver.

In Lockett's 3rd year, he really started to bloom. Tyler led the Big 12 in receiving yards per game and all-purpose yards, while ranking third in kickoff returns and sixth in touchdown scoring. He also finished 2nd in K-State history in receptions and yards. Instead of electing to come out early, Tyler stayed for his senior year. It was then that Lockett broke all of the records he set the year before. In incredible fashion, Lockett became the sixth player in Big 12 history to earn two conference player of the year awards on either offense, defense or special teams, including the second to earn two special-teams honors. He also had over 100 receptions.

Measurables

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 178

Class: Senior

Projected 40 Time: 4.34

Stats

Positives

• Possesses off the charts speed
• Knows how to use his speed to setup defenders with deception
• A killer in space
• A huge deep threat
• Can return punts and kicks
• Great at comeback routs
• Knows how to get separation
• Can be a safety blanket
• Can make an eye popping play here and there

Negatives

• Has smaller hands than what you would like
• Doesn't have the size you desire
• Isn't consistent with contested balls
• Needs to tighten up his routs
• Needs to build hand strength
• Not much of a blocker
• Besides making the occasional big play, he also drops some seemingly sure things

Conclusion

Tyler Lockett is a dynamic WR that can be a dangerous weapon for whatever team grabs him. He proved his senior season that he can be a primary receiver. In the NFL he will probably be better suited to a limited role to start and work his way up to something more substantial. I am looking forward to seeing how he runs at the combine. It could very well be the fastest time this year. He has his shortcomings, but could be a lightning bolt for any offense he is in. Right now I have Lockett going in the 3rd round, but once the flames settle on the 40 track, he might very well be sitting in the 2nd. I think a guy like Lockett would be a great addition to the Jets brand new Chan Gailey offense. Chan will absolutely use Tyler in a way that will open up defenses, and put us in a better position to do anything. I would also love to dump Percy Harvin, and keep the $10 Million/ 4th rounder. Grabbing Lockett could fill that spot exceptionally well.

Draft Grade: 76

90-100 = Exceptional Talent

80-90 = Impact Player

70-80 = NFL Starter

60-70 = Solid NFL Potential

50-60 = Draftable - Lot of work needed

>50 = Undraftable, - Long Shot To Stick