6’4” – 220 lbs.
Has pro bloodlines; father is former running back Michael Pittman. Caught 6-82-0 (13.7) as a freshman, then saw his role expand to 23-404-2 (17.6) the following year. Production escalated to 41-758-6 (18.5) as a junior before his breakout senior season, a year in which he posted 101-1,275-11 (12.6). Team captain. Split end with excellent size for the position; basically ideal height, bulk, and length. Tends to line up on the left side of the formation on the line of scrimmage, although he’ll slide down and take some snaps inside as well. Has adequate footwork to release at the line of scrimmage against press coverage. Not the most explosive athlete off the line, but has some build-up speed and his usage at the college level wasn’t limited to running short patterns. Does run his fair share of routes within five yards or so of the line of scrimmage, mostly your typical hitches, drags, in routes, curls, and so on, but saw some targets down the field, being trusted to win some jump balls down the sidelines and so on. Threat of going deep can also set up comeback routes and other patterns of that nature. Has some flexibility and can sink his hips into the route stem, although he was usually taking advantage of off coverage rather than creating separation with his route-running skills. Maintains inside positioning to shield the ball from defenders when coming over the middle. Does a good job of locating and settling into soft spots in zone. Offers a wide catch radius and reliable hands, being able to pluck the ball away from his frame. Has impressive leaping ability to go up and high-point throws downfield. When working the sidelines, demonstrates the ability to get his head around and locate the ball in the air, with the awareness and body control to stay inside the boundary. Competitive after the catch, fighting to break tackles and drag defenders for additional yardage; more of a no-nonsense type guy who wastes no time getting upfield but who also has a little bit of shake. An asset in the run game. Gives very good effort as a blocker, with good extension and enough power to overwhelm smaller defensive backs and create push; keeps his legs churning after contact. May not be the most explosive receiver in this year’s draft class, but offers excellent size, a wide catch radius, reliable hands, and physicality in the blocking game, so it’s easy to see how he might be able to contribute at the next level. Looks like a candidate to come off the board on the draft’s second day.
DRAFTEXAMINER 