As NFL draft time continues to get closer and closer, experts and analysts fall more in love with their own projections over the actual facts of a player’s profile. Makai Lemon’s numbers suggest he is a do-it-all playmaker, not just a slot receiver. One analyst in a recent mock draft believed the facts in analyzing Makai Lemon as a prospect.
In a recent feature, analyst Jordan Reid projects Makai Lemon as the 13th-best prospect in this draft class. He also has Lemon as the 2nd-best receiver in the class. Here is what he had to say about Lemon:
“Lemon’s physical traits and speed aren’t eye-popping, but he knows how to win against all types of coverage. He averaged the third-most receiving yards per game in the FBS last season (96.3) and excels in finding holes in zones. Lemon’s lack of size doesn’t inhibit him in traffic, as his 11 contested catches tied for 48th in the FBS and featured many highlight-reel grabs. He also returns punts and is adept at running after the catch, with his 21 forced missed tackles ranking 14th among FBS receivers last season. There’s debate on whether he’s primarily a slot receiver at the next level, but I believe he’s capable of playing from the perimeter, too.”
Many want to place Makai Lemon as just a slot receiver, but the numbers back up his versatility, and there is even a case for him being the most versatile receiver in this class. His skill set will allow him to win against any coverage lined up anywhere.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: NFL draft analyst buys into Makai Lemon as a pro prospect
Reporting by Micah Huff, Trojans Wire / Trojans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
