Barion Brown LSU

By Lance Zierlein
Draft Projection: Rounds 5-6

Overview
Field-stretching flanker who is light on route and catch fundamentals but heavy on kick-return talent. Teams will need to factor in Brown’s ability to operate as a functional backup against his potential contributions on kickoffs, with league rules enhancing value in that area. A linear route tree might be needed to take advantage of his potential to get open deep or run free after the catch. His speed and return value make him worthy of selection on Day 3.

Strengths
Sprinter speed can push safeties into deeper starting spots.
Wide catch radius gives him chances on more throws.
Puts up a good fight when he’s in position on 50/50 balls.
Slashing kick returner who keeps it downhill most of the time.
Finished career with six kick-return scores and a 29.4-yard return average.

Weaknesses
Fast but lacks route-running fundamentals.
Rarely gets cornerbacks stacked once he’s by them.
Lacks consistency with his deep-ball tracking.
Struggles to improve positioning when the ball goes up.
Hand-eye coordination is spotty on all three levels.