Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Demarcus Ayers (Houston) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #229 by PIT

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Demarcus Ayers - 2016 NFL Draft

College: University of Houston

Position: Wide Receiver

Overview

Demarcus Ayers was a dynamic wide receiver who showcased his skills at the University of Houston. Known for his speed and playmaking ability, Ayers was a key contributor to the Cougars' offense. As he entered the 2016 NFL Draft, scouts and analysts had varied opinions on his potential at the next level.

Strengths

• Speed and Agility: Ayers possessed exceptional straight-line speed, making him a deep threat and a player who could stretch the field.
• Route Running: He demonstrated good route-running skills, able to create separation from defenders with quick cuts and precise movements.
• Versatility: Ayers was utilized in various roles during his college career, including as a slot receiver and return specialist, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.
• Playmaking Ability: He had a knack for making big plays, often turning short passes into significant gains.

Weaknesses

• Size: At around 5'9" and 182 pounds, Ayers was considered undersized for an NFL wide receiver, which could limit his ability to compete against larger defensive backs.
• Consistency: While capable of making big plays, there were concerns about his consistency in catching the ball and maintaining focus throughout games.
• Blocking: His ability to block in the run game was questioned, as smaller receivers often struggle to engage effectively with defenders.

Projection

Demarcus Ayers was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2016 NFL Draft. His speed and versatility made him an attractive option for teams looking for a dynamic slot receiver or a potential return specialist. However, his size and inconsistencies raised some doubts about his long-term prospects in the league.

Conclusion

Ayers was viewed as a player with potential upside but also significant risks. His ability to adapt to the NFL game and improve his weaknesses would be crucial for his success at the professional level.