Gilyard will make an instant impact on special teams.
Mardy Gilyard WR
Senior: Cincinnati
Height 6 foot , 179 lbs.
Sophomore Season 2007: 36 catches, 536 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns.
Junior Season 2008: 81 catches, 1276 receiving yards, 11 touchdowns.
Senior Season 2009: 87 catches, 1191 receiving yards, 11 touchdowns.
Strengths:Gilyard was originally recruited as a defensive back, but found his calling when he switch to the offensive side of the ball. He’s one of the major factors contributing to the success of the Cincinnati program. The Bearcats are no longer an after thought in college football. He had extremely productive junior and senior seasons in Cincy’s pass-happy offense. Smooth route-runner with better than average speed. Has good vision and a high second gear. Can take it to the house from any where on the field. Effective on reverse plays. Gilyard is also one of the premiere return men in the league. He should make an instant impact on special teams. As a senior he returned 2 kickoffs and 1 punt back for scores. His personal story is worth looking up. He’s over come much in his life. His “real world” experience has translated to on the field success. He’s mentally tough and has had to work extremely hard for his success. Once labeled as immature, Gilyard has come a long way during his time as a Bearcat.
Weaknesses: One of the knocks on the wide-out is his slight frame. By no means has prototypical red-zone physique. May have difficulty off the break. Has strong skill set, but will most likely make his mark as a teams strong WR2.
Gilyard struggled in early week Senior Bowl practices as he dropped numerous balls. But when it mattered he impressed, hauling down 4 catches for 103 yards and a score. We expect him to go in the second round of this years draft.
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