Jayden Higgins is among the most underrated wide receiver prospects in the upcoming draft. The senior wide receiver received Second-Team All-Big 12 honors and finished the regular season second in yards in the Big 12 Conference (1,183). Higgins spent the first two seasons of his collegiate career at Eastern Kentucky. During his time with the Colonels, he recorded 87 receptions, 1,151 yards, and 13 touchdowns. He then transferred to Iowa State. While in Ames he recorded 87 receptions, 2,166 yards, and six touchdowns (so far) as he still has the Pop-Tarts Bowl against the Miami Hurricanes to further showcase his talent.
PLAYER INFO
Name: Jayden Higgins
Position: WR
Jersey: No. 9
Class: Senior
School: Iowa State
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 215
Strengths:
– Great catch radius/ frame, allowing for contested catches and tight window throws his way
– Thanks to his basketball playing career, his size and frame allow him to boxout and excel in the red zone and jump ball situations
– Offers versatility by being able to line up outside or inside the slot position which allows him to be utilized in multiple different packages
– Good route-running ability
Weaknesses:
– Lacks top-end speed, may struggle to challenge and threaten defenses vertically
– Struggles against press coverage
– Struggles as a run-blocker, doesn’t play to his size in the run game
Overview:
Higgins will bring good size, hands, and route running wherever he lands. Due to his alignment versatility and route running, he’ll be able to succeed in multiple positions on the field. Along with his ability to be a threat anywhere along the offense, he’ll be a quarterback’s favorite target in red zone situations thanks to his big-framed body. At the next level, he’ll need to develop as a more effective run-blocker and become more efficient against press coverage but his ability to be a good wide receiver shouldn’t be second-guessed.
He may not get the same attention as the other wide receiver prospects but whoever is willing to draft him could be getting a steal. He’ll need time to develop but can thrive in the right system. His size, frame, and football IQ alone are something GMs and offensive coordinators will fall in love with.
Draft Projection: Day 3 Pick: Rounds 4-7
