Arizona
Ht. 6-4 Wt. 215
Strengths: Juron Criner is a big, strong receiver that is a powerful route runner. He’s a savvy route runner that plays faster than his timed speed. His initial quickness off the line of scrimmage is impressive for a bigger receiver. Solid change of direction skills and does a nice job of selling sharply breaking routes. He uses his big frame to box out defenders and shows good body control. He wins more than he loses when the ball is in the air due to his size. Has big, strong hands that allow him to make circus catches. Large catching radius with arm length and hand size. He’s above-average downfield blocker. Great body control on adjustment to the ball.
Weaknesses: Criner doesn’t have the suddenness to make people miss in the open field and isn’t particularly quick in a short area. He gets jammed too often at the line of scrimmage for someone his size. Puts the ball on the ground too often mostly due to lapses in concentration. He does round off routes and needs to be more patient in the progression of the route.
Bottom Line: Juron Criner is a tough kid that played following an appendectomy. He’s got an all around solid skill set but lacks the explosion to be a top pick in April’s draft. He’s a physical receiver that will create bad matchups for small corners in the NFL. I think he’s a guy that could develop into a starter in the league down the road.
Draft Projection: 3-4.
