2015 NFL Draft Profile: Jaelen Strong, WR Arizona State

Arizona State wide receiver Jaelen Strong isn’t talked about as much as the “big 3” at the position in the 2015 NFL Draft class, but he should be. Strong provides a great combination of size and natural talent that should make him as close to a “cant-miss” type player in the draft class.

When you watch Jaelen Strong on tape, you can’t help but picture some of the best wide receivers of the last 10 years. He’s not a burner, but he’s reliable, athletic and quick off the snap. He’s not polished though. He could use some help with route running and getting separation, but he’s not afraid to go up and try to outmuscle a defender for the ball.

Jaelen Strong will be a solid pick for a team looking for a possession type wide receiver. While that team will still have to work with him on the things I mentioned above, he has the potential to be a solid player for whatever team selects him.

Nov 28, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jaelen Strong (21) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 88th annual territorial cup at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Combine Measurables:

Height: 6’2″
Weight: 217 pounds
Arm Length: 32.5″
Hand Size: 9″
40 Yard Dash: 4.44 seconds
Bench Press: N/A
Vertical Jump: 42″
Broad Jump: 123″
3 Cone Drill: N/A
20 Yard Shuttle: N/A

Draft Projection

Jaelen Strong is currently CBSSports.com’s #22 overall prospect and is their #4 wide receiver in the 2015 NFL Draft class. He projects to be a late first round selection.

NFL Player Comparison

NFL.com: Dwayne Bowe, Kansas City Chiefs
CBSSports.com: Marques Colston, New Orleans Saints

Fit For The Vikings

With the release of Greg Jennings, Minnesota could be looking for a starting caliber wide receiver if they don’t feel Charles Johnson or Cordarrelle Patterson is ready for that role.

My Take

Jaelen Strong would be interesting opposite the newly acquired Mike Wallace if the the Vikings are looking for a bigger bodied pass catcher. While there are better players in the class, if Minnesota fails to get a top tier WR with their first pick, look for them to try to move up if one of the top 4 at the position start to fall in the draft.

Next: Top 10 Biggest Vikings Salaries For 2015

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