JUST IN: Troy Franklin NFL Draft 2024: Oregon WR scouting report

NAME: Troy Franklin

TEAM: Oregon Ducks

POSITION: Wide Receiver

CLASS: Junior

HEIGHT: 6’3″

WEIGHT: 187

POSITIVES

— Elite speed. Can separate from anyone down the field.

— Diverse release package. Always keeps DBs guessing, but never wasting movement.

— Quick, detailed route-runner. Understands how to manipulate DBs.

— Good ability to hand-fight with DBs and create separation that way. Does not lose speed while doing so.

— Above-average YAC ability. Decent agility for his size along with elite speed.

NEGATIVES

— Below-average flexibility. Tall, lanky frame makes it tough for him to drop his hips and work certain routes.

— Inconsistent ability to win the ball in the air. Shows flashes thanks to good hands and long arms, but it comes and goes.

— Below-average blocker due to skinny frame.

2023 STATISTICS

— 13 G, 81 REC, 1,383 YDS (17.1 AVG), 14 TD

NOTES

— Born Feb. 26, 2003

— 4-star recruit in 2021, per 247Sports

— 26 career starts

— 2023 first-team All-Pac-12

— 2022 second-team All-Pac-12

OVERALL

Troy Franklin possesses the traits of a downfield threat coupled with a level of sophistication that sets him apart within that role.

His game revolves around speed, although his initial acceleration may not immediately stand out, he swiftly shifts into high gear. Franklin’s top-end speed allows him to outpace defenders down the field consistently, rarely getting caught once he gains separation.

However, Franklin’s skill set extends beyond pure speed. He demonstrates agility and precision as a route-runner, consistently employing various releases to keep defensive backs guessing. His adeptness at attacking and manipulating defenders’ positioning adds an additional layer to his game, making him a challenging assignment for opposing defenses.

Moreover, Franklin exhibits decent yards-after-the-catch abilities, leveraging his quickness and agility to evade defenders. While not particularly powerful or explosive, he possesses enough elusiveness to pose a threat, especially in Oregon’s screen game.

Despite his strengths, Franklin’s slender frame presents some limitations. His tall and lanky build can hinder his ability to execute certain routes effectively, particularly those requiring sudden changes in direction. Additionally, his struggles to consistently win contested catches against physical cornerbacks stem partly from his thin physique.

Overall, Franklin’s combination of speed, route-running prowess, and attention to detail make him an intriguing prospect with a high ceiling. While he may face challenges in certain situations due to his frame, his potential as a dynamic outside receiver in a vertical offense is evident, positioning him well as a potential No. 2 option.

GRADE: 7.6 (Potential Impact Player — 2nd Round)

OVERALL RANK: 32

POSITION RANK: WR6

PRO COMPARISON: Darius Slayton