re: Marqise Lee to visit Saints, Panthers

1st Rd vs 2nd Rd WR thread went on a long time

Lee Scouting Report

STRENGTHS: Explosive straight-line speed that makes pressing him risky for even talented cornerbacks. Remarkably fluid athlete, capable of changing directions quickly and shows developing savvy as a route-runner, often using a hesitation move and shoulder-dip to get defenders off-balance.
His vision, elusiveness and acceleration make him a terror after the catch, whether as a receiver or returner. Plucks the ball easily and can track over either shoulder. Plays bigger than his size, showing the ability to go up and high-point passes amidst tight coverage and is an attentive, physical downfield blocker.

WEAKNESSES: Possesses a relatively slight frame and struggled with injuries in 2013, raising legitimate questions about his ability to remain healthy against NFL competition. Relies on his natural athleticism to work himself free, at times, rather than exploding out of his routes at the proper depths, showing a willingness to freelance that has led to interceptions for the Trojans.

COMPARES TO: Victor Cruz, New York Giants - Like the 6-0, 204-pound Cruz, Lee lacks the frame to wow scouts but his agility, acceleration and soft hands make him a natural playmaker. It is unknown whether Lee can salsa, but he's a breathtaking talent who should have plenty of opportunities to develop touchdown dances of his own in the NFL.

After taking the Pac-12 by storm as a freshman and winning the Biletnikof Award as a sophomore, Lee struggled with durability in 2013, posting the worst numbers of his career. Nevertheless, he elected to make himself eligible for the 2014 draft shortly after the Trojans' season ended.
Despite only starting eight games in 2011, Lee caught 73 passes for 1,143 yards and 11 touchdowns, sharing the Pac-12's Freshman Offensive Player of the Year with Oregon's equally dynamic DeAnthony Thomas. Exciting as a freshman, Lee was virtually unstoppable a year later, earning the nation's top honor among receivers with an eye-popping 118 receptions for 1,721 yards and 14 touchdowns, while doubling as the Trojans' starting kickoff returner (28.5-yard avg.).

The departure of quarterback Matt Barkley and wide receiver Robert Woods (among others) allowed defenses to key in on the playmaker in 2013 and this focus, along with a nagging injury to his left knee, left him with a disappointing 57 receptions for 791 yards and four scores as a junior.

Lee's build and struggles with injury in 2013 will certainly draw red-flags from scouts but when healthy, his talent is obvious. Further, he's not as polished as his former teammate, Woods.

Few can boast Lee's explosiveness, however, which will almost certainly result in his earning a first round selection come May.

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