NFL Draft results 2015: Justin Hardy goes to Falcons

East Carolina University wide receiver Justin Hardy is set to join the Atlanta Falcons after being taken with the No 107 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. Hardy holds several school records including most career receiving yards (4541) and touchdown receptions (35).

A prolific receiver at one of the smaller programs in the FBS power five, Hardy became a key contributor very early in his college career. He caught 64 passes as a redshirt freshman, and steadily developed his skillset throughout the next three years.

What stands out most about Hardy are his big paws. Measured at 10” at the combine, Hardy catches most of his passes away from his body, utilizing his 32 1/8” arms to do so. He’s a smooth operator in traffic, can come down with balls that most receivers his size can’t get to. Hardy also makes quick cuts that shake even elite college defensive backs.

At the same time, his size and speed are an immediately noticeable drawback to Hardy as a prospect. At 5’10” with 4.56-timed speed, Hardy will have a harder time creating separating at the next level. Compounding the problem is the limited route set that Hardy ran at ECU. He’ll need to expand his repertoire before he can contribute consistently.

Hardy’s combine numbers were consistent with the type of back he is on tape. His 4.56 second 40-yard dash is a little slow for a player his size. On the other hand, his 6.63 second 3-cone drill was among the best for receivers. The rest of his combine was standard fare, with the wideout registering 36 1/2” in the vertical leap and 114” in the broad jump.

Hardy finished his college career with 387 catches for 4,541 yards and 27 touchdowns. He also returned 63 punts for 495 yards, an average of 7.9 per return.