Michael Floyd 2012 NFL Draft scouting report

Body control: Shows good body control to maneuver his frame to make a play on the ball. This has been especially helpful at Notre Dame where the quarterback play has been lacking. Has a good feel for where the sidelines are at and won’t readjust his playing style to get two feet inbounds in the NFL.

Hands: As a senior, Floyd’s hands were more consistent. While he will drop some easy catches, he makes up for it with spectacular grabs outside his frame. Really goes after the ball in adverse situations. Looks to have strong hands to snag the ball out of the air. Isn’t deterred by playing the middle part of the field. Tracks the ball well.

Release: Gets off the line of scrimmage with ease. Has a nice first step and doesn’t waste motion. Against bump coverage, Floyd has the strength to move cornerbacks around. Long strider off the line.

Route running: Works the underneath routes really well. When he’s in the short area, Floyd can really on his foot quickness and size to pick apart defenses. Excels against zone. Used a lot in the slot as a senior.

Size: Floyd has an optimum frame for a wide receiver. He’s tall with big hands. He has the size to be able to consistently go over the middle. Uses his strength as much as his speed to gain yards after the catch. Knows how to use his frame working up the sideline.

Speed: Plays faster than he’s often given credit. On-field speed looked much-improved in 2011 after Floyd slimmed down. Playing heavier in 2010, Floyd looked sluggish at times. Long speed is only decent. Won’t be a consistent deep vertical threat in the NFL and can be caught from behind.

Final word: Floyd began his senior season at Notre Dame with numerous question marks. Did he give the effort and was he out of shape? How good are his hands and speed? Will he continue having off-field issues? Other than the question about speed, Floyd answered his critics in 2011. He looked leaner, his hands were more consistent and there wasn’t an issue about his character. Those answers, combined with his size, foot quickness and strength are what makes him arguably the best wide receiver in this year’s draft.

Floyd can line up outside, but he was just as impressive in 2011 playing the slot. With his size, he’s hard to jam at the line and he’s difficult to take down after the catch. Floyd would work really well in a West Coast system that relies more on timing than pure speed and athleticism.

Was arrested three times at Notre Dame on alcohol-related charges. With his continued trouble with alcohol, some teams will seriously question Floyd’s character. Has had some issues with injuries. Missed four games in 2009 with a broken collarbone. Sat out the final three games of 2008 with a leg injury. Skipped the Senior Bowl for unknown reasons, which may not have been the best decision.