Justin Blackmon
6'1, 207 pounds | Wide receiver | Oklahoma State
Body control: Unlike some other No. 1 receivers the past few years, Blackmon always attacks the ball at the high point, especially when he's working the sideline. His ability to adjust and make dynamic catches is questionable at times when playing the middle.
Hands: Blackmon has good hands and will make tough catches, but tends to have some lapses. He dropped several catchable balls as a junior and made some questionable plays. Needs to get better at grabbing the ball out of the air when going over the middle. Needs to hold the ball higher and tighter after the catch.
Justin Blackmon 2012 NFL Draft scouting report
Release: Powerful at the line of scrimmage to beat the press and get into his route progression. Gets off the line effortlessly and doesn’t make a wasted step. Is often compared to Anquan Boldin because of his ability to use strength to get off the line.
Route running: Is largely used on the outside but saw more time in 2011 in the slot. Likes to use his size to get open down the field. For the most part, Blackmon has been used on slants and deep go routes. It’s not something that should be held against him, though, if he’s not asked to run complex routes. Appears to have the foot quickness and smarts to learn a full route tree.
Size: Blackmon isn’t the biggest wide receiver, but he knows how to use his frame to his advantage. He’s strong and knows how to use his strength, which is why many compare him to Anquan Boldin. He’s not the tallest wide receiver, though, and looks to have just average arm length.
Speed: One of the things that keeps Blackmon from being considered elite is his lack of top speed. He doesn’t have the next gear to break a reception wide open and needs space to get up to top speed.
Final word: Interviews will be important for Blackmon as teams may question his character. He was charged with misdemeanor DUI in 2010 and was suspended for one game. More importantly, they may question him about the Oklahoma State offense. It never required him to learn complicated offensive philosophies, but he was wildly productive. As a junior, he had 121 receptions for 1,522 yards and 18 touchdowns. Comparatively, it was a down season compared to 2010 when he had 111 receptions for 17,82 yards and 20 touchdowns.
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