Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Jelani Woods (Virginia) - 2022 NFL Draft Pick #73 by IND

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Jelani Woods (Virginia)

Position: Tight End

Height: 6'7"

Weight: 253 lbs

Overview

Jelani Woods emerged as one of the intriguing prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft, showcasing a unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism. His performance at Virginia, particularly in his final season, caught the attention of scouts and analysts alike.

Strengths

• Size and Length: Woods possesses an imposing frame that makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders. His height allows him to be a significant target in the red zone.
• Athleticism: He displayed impressive speed and agility for a player of his size, which is rare for tight ends. His ability to stretch the field can create mismatches against linebackers and safeties.
• Route Running: Woods has shown the ability to run a diverse route tree, demonstrating good technique and the ability to create separation.
• Blocking Ability: While primarily known for his receiving skills, Woods has the physicality to contribute as a blocker in the running game.
• Production: His improved production during his final college season highlighted his potential and readiness for the NFL level.

Weaknesses

• Consistency: There were moments of inconsistency in his catching ability, particularly in traffic, which raised questions about his hands.
• Experience: Having transferred from Oklahoma State, Woods had fewer reps in high-pressure situations, which could affect his transition to the NFL.
• Blocking Technique: While he has the size to block, his technique needed refinement to be more effective at the next level.

Overall Assessment

Jelani Woods is viewed as a high-upside tight end prospect with the potential to develop into a reliable starter in the NFL. His blend of size and athleticism makes him a valuable asset in both the passing and running game. While he may need some time to refine his skills, his physical tools suggest that he could become a significant contributor in the right system.

Projected Draft Position

Woods was projected to be selected in the third to fifth round, depending on team needs and preferences for tight end depth in the draft.