The Detroit Lions have recently hired coach Tyler Roehl from Iowa State to serve as the tight ends coach. A prospect of interest for the Lions, who require a wide receiver with size and physicality, is one of his key players from the Cyclones, Jayden Higgins.
Jayden Higgins, wide receiver, Iowa State
Larger receiver measuring over 6-foot-3 and weighing 217 pounds (Senior Bowl)
Wingspan is nearly 80 inches long, with hands measuring more than 9.5 inches.
87 receptions for 1,183 yards and 9 touchdowns during senior year.
Played 2 seasons at Eastern Kentucky followed by 2 years at Iowa State.
Two-time academic award recipient in the Big 12
Benefits
Excellent dimensions and length on the exterior or in the position.
Efficient quickness in short distances and a capacity to shorten his steps to generate room
Excellent at catching balls in the air due to his height and strength; skilled in contested receptions and planned jump plays.
Only 3 drops among more than 200 targets during two years at Iowa State.
Can consistently intercept the ball outside of his body.
Skilled in operating a large slot
A capable and eager blocker with strong technique, although he can hold occasionally.
Drawbacks
Lacks long-range speed; maximum speed during Senior Bowl practices was 19.8, but Higgins does not regularly demonstrate that speed.
Has difficulty getting free from jams and fails to shield his chest effectively on his release at the line.
Large goal to address and not very hard to grasp after the catch.
Higgins isn’t rigid, but he won’t amaze with agility or movement in his routes.
Must improve the consistency of his timing on routes.
In general
Higgins possesses great promise as a large wide receiver with extremely reliable hands. His skill in securing passes outside his body and positioning himself as an option on quick-hitting plays and comebacks is a facet the Lions can capitalize on, especially since the frequently injured Tim Patrick is a free agent
The link between Cyclone and new Lions assistant coach Tyler Roehl brings interest, although Higgins was already prominently noticed after an impressive Senior Bowl week. His absence of explosiveness and difficulties with press coverage are valid drawbacks that might keep him on the board when the Lions select at No. 60 overall in the second round, and possibly even a round later (Scouting Combine tests/interviews will be important in this regard). If the Lions seek a larger receiver capable of playing both outside and in the slot, Higgins might be a highly attractive choice on Day 2
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Age not specified, but belonged to high school class of 2020.
Games observed: Utah, Kansas State, Kansas, Iowa, Texas Tech, Senior Bowl week (attended)