K.J. Maye – Minnesota
The Vikings had Golden Gophers receiver Maye in for a visit as part of last week’s top-30 event. Gopher fans obviously know all about Maye, but for those who don’t follow Minnesota college football, here’s the skinny: Maye didn’t do a whole lot for the Gophers his first three years, but he broke out last year as a senior with 73 catches for 773 yards and five touchdowns. That eye-opening surge in production is why he is now being discussed as a draftable prospect.
Maye obviously is not the biggest guy in the world, standing just 5-8 and weighing just 194 pounds. He also isn’t all that fast, nor is he especially quick, nor is he a good leaper. He’s well-built but his arms aren’t very long and his catch radius is somewhat limited. When Maye wins, he does so with precise route-running. Scouts like his toughness, tenacity and football intelligence.
Given his limitations, if Maye does have a place with the Vikings or any other NFL team, it’s as a slot receiver/special teams player. Considering the Vikings’ tendency to bring in Minnesota guys, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Maye end up on the team as a UDFA at least. He could very well catch on as a practice squad player.