Posted by Sean in Fantasy Advice on Feb 8th 2010 and last modified on Mar 8th 2010. (Print This)
After a disappointing senior season, opting out of the Senior Bowl, and sub-par stats at the combine: LaFell is in danger of falling out of the top 5 of this years WR crop.
Brandon LaFell WR
Senior: LSU
Height 6’3″ , 209 lbs.
LaFell initially declared for the 2009 NFL Draft, but pulled out to return for his senior season at LSU. He entered the 09 season with the potential to be the best receiver the college game had to offer, but his senior year stats would take a hit. LSU’s offense struggled all season behind an inexperienced quarterback. LaFell was unable to eclipse his junior year production although he had his best season in terms of touchdowns (11). Had he entered the draft last year, he most likely would have been a first rounder. A year later, his stay atop the wide-receiver board remains in question after a season of inconsistent quarterback play and some uncharacteristic drops. He does have 4 years experience in a highly regarded college conference.
Sophomore Season 2007: 50 catches, 656 receiving yards, 4 touchdowns.
Junior Season 2008: 63 catches, 929 receiving yards, 8 touchdowns.
Senior Season 2009: 57 catches, 792 receiving yards, 11 touchdowns.
Career Stats at LSU:175 receptions, 2,157 receiving yards and 25 TDs.
LaFell is tough. He’s not afraid to play in between the hashes and will fight for the ball. Has physical style of play and is not often out-positioned by defenders. He’s a better than average blocker who prides himself on all aspects of the position. Plays physical and is not often jammed at the line. Can break tackles and can produce YAC after initial contact. November 18th 2006 was the last time that LaFell was held without a catch.
At times lacks concentration. Runs before he has secured the ball leading to a number of dropped balls. Has small hands.
LaFell made a lasting impression in his final college performance. He pulled down 5 catches for 87 yards and a touchdown in LSU’s match-up vs. Penn State in the Capital One Bowl. He opted out of the Senior Bowl.
LaFell has done little to improve his stock since the Captial One Bowl. His opting out of the Senior Bowl was a bad decision. He further damaged his draft prognosis by posting sub-par numbers at the combine. He projects as a second rounder. The Brotherhood feels that there may be better options available.
NFL Comparison: Dwayne Bowe
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