No. 48: Jordan Matthews, WR, VanderbiltBio: Vanderbilt’s quarterback play was, at best, average during Matthews’ four years there. He deserves extremely high marks then for finding a way to catch 112 passes for 1,477 yards last season. Those numbers topped the 94/1,323 spread he produced in 2012 catching passes from Jordan Rodgers, brother of Green Bay’s Aaron and who recently signed with the Dolphins. For all the hype surrounding big receivers, Matthews — an athletic 6-foot-3, 212 pounds — has somehow slid a bit under the radar. He scored 24 touchdowns for the Commodores. That he is the cousin of Jerry Rice may not matter in reality, but it will not hurt his perceived value.
Strengths: Can be effective from any spot on the field. Able to find openings due to his exceptional route-running, even when faced with physical cornerbacks at the line. Adjusts well to the ball downfield and gets his body in position for the catch. Should be better after the catch than he really had the opportunity to be in Vanderbilt’s offense; the 4.46 speed is no fluke. Had no issues handling the No. 1 receiver role against SEC competition, with the aforementioned shaky QB play. Good height, strength and leaping ability, all factors that should allow him to do some damage in the red zone. Solid hands.
Weaknesses: May not project as a No. 1 option in the pros unless he really adds some muscle or better translates that speed to stretch the field. Considering how many passes he plucks from defenders, Matthews does occasionally make some frustrating drops. NFL corners may have more success jamming him at the line. Is his ceiling any higher than where he’s at right now? Matthews should be a productive pro, but teams may be hesitant to project him out as a superstar.
Conclusion: Matthews will draw a lot of Keenan Allen comparisons (including 50 percent of one below) because, similar to the Chargers’ rookie sensation, he does not necessarily blow you away on film, but all the traits are there to be a reliable NFL receiver from the get-go. Where that scouting report falls in line with a flashy class of receivers will be interesting to follow as the draft approaches.
NFL player comparison: A mix of Brian Hartline, Miami Dolphins (4th round, 2009, Ohio State) and Keenan Allen, San Diego Chargers (3rd round, 2013, California)