Stephen HillGeorgia Tech
Ht. 6-5 Wt. 206
Strengths: Stephen Hill may be the ultimate upside/high ceiling guy at the position. He’s got the size and athletic ability to be special. He’s a playmaker that can make circus catches (see viral youtube video on sideline route). His ability to go up and grab the ball at the highest point is bordering on unreal. He has good speed for his size but not great straight line speed. Athletic ability is through the roof and can run after the catch. Most impressive is what he can with the ball in space for his size. He’s a guy that you throw it out to and watch him work. Averaged over 30 yards/catch this season in limited targets and has good hands.
Weaknesses: The Georgia Tech offense isn’t exactly conducive to producing NFL receivers although two top receivers have come out of that program in the last four years (Calvin Johnson ’07 and Demaryius Thomas ’10). He will need time to develop into an NFL route runner and may be further behind than Thomas was at this stage of his career. He doesn’t have elite speed but it’s good enough considering his frame. Just doesn’t have the reps or production to warrant a top pick.
Bottom Line: Hill has one the highest ceilings of this deep WR class. Georgia Tech has produced a couple good ones lately in Calvin Johnson and Demaryius Thomas. Hill is much closer to Thomas than Johnson and I don’t think he’s as refined as Thomas at similar stages in their career. He’s an impressive athlete that makes big plays in limited opportunities.
Draft Projection: Stephen Hill is probably a third round pick at this point but he could rise to the second round come April. He could go early two with a solid showing at the Combine.
