Grade
83.1 ?4.51 SEC
Top Performer14 REPS
Top Performer33.5 INCH
Top Performer117.0 INCH
Top Performer7.15 SEC
Top Performer4.47 SEC
Top Performer
- 6'0" Height
- 31" Arm Length
- 201LBS. Weight
- 9 1/4" Hands
Overview
Woods’ consensus All-American high school career gave him a chance to matriculate to whatever college he desired –- not only was he prolific on the gridiron as a senior (1,112 receiving yards, eight interceptions for the California Division 3 state champions) but he also finished second in the 400 meters, third in the 200 meters and anchored a state champion 1,600-meter relay team at state track meet. So it was no surprise he went to USC instead of following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather as Grambling State Tigers.
He started all 13 games as a true freshman for the Trojans, earning numerous Freshman All-American honors and Pac-10 Offensive Freshman of the Year. He was a first-team All-Pac-10 pick at kick returner (971 yards with a TD against Minnesota) and received honorable mention notice at receiver (65 receptions for 792 yards and six touchdowns). His break-out performance came in the team’s heart-breaking 37-35 loss to Stanford, as he covered 224 yards and scored three times on 12 catches. Woods didn’t disappoint as a sophomore. He was a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award after starting every game and finishing the year in the top ten nationally in receptions (111), receiving yards per game (107.7, 1,292 total yards), and receiving touchdowns (15). Those 111 catches beat Keyshawn Johnson’s Pac-12 and school record, and the 17 receptions in the season opener versus Minnesota were the most for any FBS receiver in 2011. He also continued in his returner role (averaging 9.1 yards on punts and 23.1 on kickoffs) in spite of his stardom on offense. Despite all of that success, Woods fought various injuries in 2011, and had post-season arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle because of a pick-up basketball injury suffered last spring.
The entire Trojans team had a down year in 2012, but Woods remained a consistent force for the offense while starting all 13 games, catching 76 passes for 846 yards and 11 touchdowns. It may have been with a humorous tone, but after the team's bowl game Woods stated that "if the coaches wanted to keep me another year, they would've probably got me the ball." Quarterback Matt Barkley reiterated Woods' sentiments, adding that the offense seemed to focus too much on getting sophomore stud receiver Marqise Lee the ball. Woods reportedly received a second-round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board.
Analysis
Weaknesses
Lean upper and lower body builds, strength is an issue when trying to get off the jam, fight for 50-50 balls. Has more than his share of drops in some games, fails to squeeze the ball with his hands to secure it. Settles for body-catches over when high-pointing passes over defenders. Could step in as a kickoff or punt returner in a pinch due to his willingness to run through traffic, but lacks the elusiveness and pure speed most NFL teams covet. Had surgery on his right ankle during the 2012 offseason, did not participate in spring practice.NFL Comparison
James JonesBottom Line
The Trojans receiver racked up big numbers throughout his career with quarterback Matt Barkley due to his foot quickness and burst after the catch, though the right ankle that bothered him at multiple parts of his career must continue to stay healthy. Woods needs to catch the ball more consistently downfield if he wants to be a top receiver for a team in the NFL, but right now the junior thrives on short to intermediate patterns.
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| Grade | Title | Draft (Round) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 96-100 | Future Hall of Famer | Top Pick | A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played |
| 85-95 | Immediate Starter | 1st | An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter). |
| 70-84 | Eventual Starter | 2nd-3rd | A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position. |
| 50-69 | Draftable Player | 4th-7th | A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential. |
| 20-49 | Free Agent | UDFA | A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body. |
