WR Miles Boykin, Notre Dame

6’4” – 220 lbs. – 4.42
Was a little-used receiver for the first three seasons of his collegiate career, with his biggest season being 12-253-1 as a junior, then stepped into a starting role and put together 54-803-8 in his final year at Notre Dame. Big split end with excellent size for the boundary at the pro level; typically on the left, but runs routes from both sides of the field and will also come in tight to the formation at times. Long-strider who eats up cushions quickly against off-coverage and proved in Indianapolis that he has the speed to threaten downfield at the next level; however, wasn’t able to create separation with his outside releases and was often blanketed by opposing defensive backs as he made his way down the sidelines. Although he ran patters at different levels and some over the middle of the field, overall route-running leaves a lot to be desired; doesn’t pay a lot of attention to detail. Tends to round off routes casually without sinking his hips and exploding at the stem. Does use some swim moves to get inside position but can have trouble keeping defenders in his hip pocket and using his frame to shield them from the ball. Would like to see him work his way back to the ball and be more aggressive at the catch point. Good physicality through press coverage. Actual fundamentals as a pass-catcher look solid. Uses appropriate form and looks the ball into his hands. Obviously presents a huge radius for quarterbacks with his size, length, and leaping ability. Flashes good body control and awareness near the sidelines; was frequently targeted on go routes and back-shoulder throws near the boundaries. Didn’t appear to have great chemistry with his quarterback but presented some good opportunities for throws which would have improved his production. Should be able to develop into a solid blocker; has the size and length to overpower defensive backs and gives good effort in that area of the game. Was considered a mid-to-late-round pick before blowing up the Combine with a blazing 4.42 forty, a 6.77 cone, and unbelievable leaps (43.5” vertical, 11’8” broad); now it’s anyone’s guess how high he will be selected, but it seems clear that at the latest he’ll probably be an early third-day pick. Boom-or-bust prospect who has the physical and athletic tools and ball skills, but needs to improve his releases and routes to create separation.