Ourlads' Profile:
2023 Guide: What Ourlads’ NFL Scouting Services said about JAXON SMITH-NJIGBA:
Ohio State | H: 6000 W: 198 40: 4.54 A: 3012 H: 0900 W: 7512
Junior entry, two-year starter, Rockwall, TX. Played in just three games (62 snaps) in 2022 because of a hamstring injury and the Covid-shortened season led to just seven games (162 snaps). Thus, 2021 was his lone full year of action. Set the Big 10 single season receiving record, leading the Buckeyes in both catches and yards on a team that included eventual first rounders Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, landing him third team All America honors. Entered last season with high expectations after leading all power five programs with 1,606 yards and finishing number one in the nation with a 84.8% reception percentage in 2021. The Big 10 record-setter lined up primarily in the slot and showed advanced route running and ball skills. The standout attribute, however, is the ability to create extra yards after the catch. A stocky receiver with some running back-flavor to his game when working against defenders in space once he has the ball. The vision, body control, and balance make him incredibly tough to take down. That physical nature shows up in contested situations as well, another area he ranked number one in the country in by a wide margin. While his soft tissue concerns will need extra screening, he is a pro-ready slot receiver who will be a dangerous weapon in offenses that scheme yard-after-catch opportunities. Thick thighs and hips that are powerful, short, and stable which provide aid when it comes to burst, acceleration, and agility. Elite contact balance against tacklers. A lethal stiff arm combined with advanced knowledge of spacing and angles. Cautiously aggressive and patient. Elite route runner with the snap and suddenness to create separation in tight windows. Tracks the ball from all angles with precision and control. Excellent coordination to reach passes away from his body. Lacks experience as an outside threat and rarely faced press coverage. Does not have the long speed to get over the top. Can and will be caught from behind. Short strider, partially stemming from body type. Does not have a wide radius. Concerns center around a lack of experience and a nagging hamstring injury but there is no denying the ability shown on tape when projecting how quickly he can make a big impact at the next level.
2021 Stats: 95-1606, 16.9 ypr, 9 TD, 8-60 PR, 7.5 avg. 1st/2nd round.