How WR Josh Downs plays bigger than his size: NFL Draft Film Breakdown
In this film breakdown, we take a look at North Carolina WR Josh Downs.
Downs had a strong career at UNC, putting up 19 TDs and over 2,000 yards the last 2 seasons. Heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, Downs is viewed as the 4th or 5th best WR in this class, despite his 5'10 171 pound stature. At that size, he would be one of the smallest WRs in the NFL, despite playing much larger than that. He is shockingly good in contested-catch situations, however, the main flaws in his game are things that slot WRs need to excel at. He has improved his drop issues from 2021, and his route-running and ability to separate are off the charts. Downs will make for a good slot WR in the NFL, if he can sure up the holes in his game that he currently has.
Strengths:
- Speed: Downs is a fast and explosive receiver who is able to create separation from defenders and make big plays downfield. He has great acceleration and top-end speed, making him a deep threat on every play.
- Route Running: Downs is an excellent route runner with the ability to make sharp cuts and create separation from defenders. He has a good understanding of how to set up defenders and find open space in the defense.
- Hands: Downs has reliable hands and rarely drops passes. He has a good catch radius and is able to make difficult catches look easy.
Weaknesses:
- Size: At 5'10" and 180 pounds, Downs is not the biggest receiver on the field. This can make it difficult for him to make contested catches against taller defenders, particularly in the red zone.
- Strength: Downs can struggle at times to get off the line of scrimmage against physical press coverage. He may need to improve his strength and physicality to become more effective against NFL-caliber defenders.
- Blocking: While Downs is a talented receiver, he may need to improve his blocking skills to become a complete player. He can get caught up in blocks and may need to become more aggressive and physical in this area of his game.
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