The method of the NFL draft is distinct. The media and fans are catching up to what NFL teams have been learning from their college scouting throughout the year. Fans and the media pay close attention to college statistics, highlights, and Senior Bowl or Shrine Bowl performances early in the process.
Teams that are delving further into the statistics, the film, and background checks are the Cleveland Browns and other teams.
Roman Wilson, a wide receiver, is a fascinating player whose status could shift between the conclusion of the collegiate season and the draft. Wilson was interviewed by our Barry Shuck at the Senior Bowl, and he recorded Wilson’s practice performance twice (here and here).
Wilson’s impressive play earned Shuck the #1 pick in the Browns All-Senior Bowl Mock Draft for wide receivers. It may appear excessive to spend a second-round pick on a guy who has never had 50 receptions or more, 800 yards or more, or more than one touchdown play. This is especially true for fans and media who are only now catching up.
Rather than a reach, Shuck might have been ahead of the game because Wilson could be selected late in the first round or at the top of the second round due to his 12 touchdowns from the previous season and his career 16 yards per reception in a run-first scheme at Michigan.
Wilson’s PFF data is noteworthy, and if he performs as expected at the NFL Combine, he might soar up the ranks:
Roman Wilson, a wide receiver for Michigan, is going to win over the analytics community, in my opinion.
Receiving grade in the 98th percentile
97th percentile obtaining a grade in comparison to one coverage
93rd percentile separation % in comparison to the 80th percentile yards per route run for single coverage.
— February 9, 2024, Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher)
At the NFL level, creating versus single (man) coverage is essential. In addition, Wilson has demonstrated smart route running and game sense, which will be useful against zone defenders.
Although wide receiver is a position that Cleveland needs to keep investing in, Wilson’s stock might make the Browns’ first pick unattainable. It could be more practical to take a chance on his teammate Cornelius Johnson later in the selection.
