[tps_title]2017 NFL Combine: 8 WR participants to watch for the Dallas Cowboys[/tps_title]
[2/8] JuJu Smith-Schuster, USC (6’2″, 220)
Why he’s on this list: JuJu Smith-Schuster checks nearly every box that NFL teams look for in their WRs. He has the prototypical size/strength to be a matchup problem against NFL cornerbacks and has the big school production to prove it.
He is a natural hands catcher and knows how to use his big frame to block out defenders in order to make contested catches. Once he has the ball in his hands, he utilizes a nasty stiff arm that NFL defensive backs will absolutely hate.
Smith-Schuster reminds me a lot of the Minnesota Vikings first-round draft pick, Laquon Treadwell. Both wide receivers have the same type of physical makeup, but their lack of elite speed will probably hurt them at the NFL level. Treadwell had a disappointing rookie season, so that could concern scouts since Smith-Schuster is very similar.
What to watch for at the NFL combine: I think all NFL scouts/coaches eyes will be glued on JuJu Smith-Schuster’s 40 yard dash time. If he can run in the 4.5 range or lower, I can see him slipping into the back-end of the first round. Unfortunately, I think he will run in the 4.6 range, which should make him available for the Dallas Cowboys at 60, if not later.
