Michael Floyd and Justin Blackmon have been the talk of the draft when it comes to wide receivers. But with neither of those players emerging as an elite prospect, patience will be key for wide receiver needy teams. The 2012 NFL Draft class is deep at wide receiver, presenting quality options in rounds two and three.
2012 NFL Draft: All Underrated Team - Wide Receivers
With so many wideouts in this draft, which ones stand out enough to earn a spot on this year’s All-Underrated Team? Check it out after the jump, and as always, be sure to let me know who your favorite wide receiver sleeper prospect is.
Marvin Jones, California
Marvin Jones may not hear his name called until the second or third night of the 2012 NFL Draft, but he has a real shot to be the most productive wide receiver in this class. He has size, athleticism and the route running to make an immediate transition to the NFL. Jones works hard and makes difficult plays on the ball with regularity due to his tremendous body control. He will likely be drafted in the third round at the latest.
A.J. Jenkins, Illinois
People are starting to catch on to A.J. Jenkins, but it’s still fair to call him one of the sleepers of this draft class. A fluid route runner, Jenkins displays incredible hands and ability to make plays in traffic. His speed and strength are weapons of his, and he is versatile enough to play in the slot and on the boundary. Jenkins has a real chance of becoming a No. 2 receiver early in his NFL career and for the small price of a day two pick.
Chris Givens, Wake Forest
It’s easy for a player to get lost in the football wasteland that is Wake Forest. But don’t overlook Chris Givens. While he is slightly undersized, Givens is an explosive player with an ability to separate from the secondary. He occasionally struggled making adjustments and catches on poorly thrown balls, but with the quarterback play at Wake Forest, it’s tough to blame him. Givens will make for a nice value in the second or third round.
Slot Receivers: For good measure, I’ll throw in a few slot receivers who could out-perform their draft position.
Dwayne Frampton, Arkansas State
You find football players where you find football players, and despite his small-school status, Dwayne Frampton is a hell of a football player. Frampton suffered an MCL tear late in the season for Arkansas State but managed to perform at ASU’s pro day. Frampton is a well grounded kid with solid hands and the quickness to work the slot in the NFL.
Devon Wylie, Fresno State
Few players in the draft are as quick as Devon Wylie. He accelerates very quickly in and out of his cuts, making him a terrific route runner. Add to that his reliable hands, and with some NFL strength training, Wylie could become a dangerous slot receiver.
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