Ryan Whalen (Stanford) - 2011 NFL Draft Pick #167 by CIN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis: Ryan Whalen (Stanford)
Overview: Ryan Whalen was a wide receiver from Stanford University who entered the 2011 NFL Draft after a productive college career. Known for his strong work ethic and solid route-running skills, Whalen was viewed as a reliable option for teams looking to bolster their receiving corps.
- Height: 6'0"
- Weight: 195 lbs
- College: Stanford University
Strengths:
- Route Running: Whalen displayed exceptional route-running ability, often creating separation from defenders.
- Football IQ: He had a strong understanding of defensive coverages and was able to exploit mismatches effectively.
- Hands: Whalen had reliable hands and was known for making tough catches in traffic.
- Work Ethic: His dedication to improving his craft and preparation was noted by coaches and scouts alike.
Weaknesses:
- Speed: While he was effective, he lacked elite speed, which limited his ability to stretch the field.
- Size: At 6'0", he was not the tallest receiver, which could be a disadvantage in jump-ball situations.
- Consistency: While he had standout performances, there were games where he was less impactful, raising questions about his week-to-week reliability.
Draft Projection:
Ryan Whalen was projected to be selected in the later rounds of the 2011 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a dependable receiver who could contribute on special teams and in specific offensive packages found his skill set appealing.
Conclusion:
Ryan Whalen was viewed as a solid prospect who possessed the tools to succeed in the NFL, particularly with a team that valued technical receivers and strong work ethic.