Scouting report: Percy Harvin

5’11, 195 pounds | Florida | Wide receiver
Strengths: Harvin possesses possibly the best first step off the line not only in this draft class, but of the last several years. He’s explosive off the snap, which allows him to immediately get open on slants routes. Harvin bursts into and out of his cuts with an strong plant foot. Coaches said he is a strong competitor with great work ethic. Has incredible elusiveness and can score on any possession. Intelligently cuts back to gain extra yards going against the flow of the traffic. Will go over the middle on occasion. Has the agility to make extraordinary catches look easy. An intelligent player who has lined up at multiple receiver spots, running back and even quarterback.
Weaknesses: Where does he play? Much like Reggie Bush of the New Orleans Saints, Harvin might be good at a lot of different things, but a master of none. He might not be able to be relied on as a true No. 1 receiver and is far too slender to regularly carry the ball as a running back. Has a long history of injury problems. While he may missed five games in three years, he was banged up and unproductive in several contests. In 2007, Harvin sat out two games with the flu, so his toughness is somewhat questionable. For such an explosive and fast player, it’s somewhat of a surprise that Harvin never returned a punt or kick at Florida. While it’s probably due to the Gators having so much talent and speed, it makes you question Harvin’s ability to do this and even his vision somewhat.
Final word: Harvin is a fun player to watch, but it’s no guarantee how well his college exploits will translate to the NFL. It’s likely he’ll have to be used as a wide receiver/running back hybrid, similar to Bush and Chris Johnson of the Tennessee Titans. Finished his career with 133 receptions for 1,929 yards and 13 touchdowns, and 194 carries for 1,852 yards and 19 scores. Had a span of 15 consecutive games with a touchdown.
Round projection: 1