Rashard Higgins NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Browns Rookie

POSITIVES

Among the most productive players in college football the last three seasons, Rashard Higgins finished his Colorado State career with 239 catches for over 3,600 yards and 31 touchdowns.

As a route-runner, Higgins can be a nightmare for defenses thanks to his footwork. He's a short-strider with the foot speed to cut, break and disappear in space. He's smooth through his transitions and glides coming off the line of scrimmage.

Seeing 236 targets in the last two seasons, you might expect a high number of drops, but Higgins was reliable and consistent, letting just 11 passes through his hands in that time according to College Football Focus.

A productive inside receiver, Higgins best translates to the slot in the NFL. There he can do his work with quick feet and smart route-running without losing impact due to poor speed and explosion.

NEGATIVES

A new coaching staff and a new quarterback led to a drop in production and impact from Higgins in 2015. He was still productive, but this change will lead to questions about whether his impact was merely scheme-based.

A lanky, thin frame is a question mark for Higgins if NFL scouts picture him playing outside the hashes. Higgins doesn't show the twitch or deep speed to easily separate from man coverage. He's quick in short areas, but a lack of play strength will lead to his being knocked off underneath routes.

Press coverage will be a big hurdle for Higgins to clear in the pros. He doesn't fight through jams and too often can look uninterested in playing through contact. As a smaller receiver, Higgins can't afford to have below-average speed and play strength.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'1 ⅜"

Weight: 196 lbs.

40 Time: 4.64s

3-Cone: 7.13s

Short Shuttle: 4.53s

PRO COMPARISON: Devin Street, Dallas Cowboys
FINAL GRADE: 6.00/9.00 (Round 3—Future Starter)