Elijhah freaking Badger

He did what he was elite at last year, and we needed that badly. He wasnt just elite compared to our receivers. He was just incredibly elusive. He is not being used that way this year, which is probably better for his development in the long term.

 

The two transfers both have shown they are very good wideouts and good teammates. Great job bringing them in coaches!

 

Unrelated but I saw 77 shown in this picture with a great pancake block on one of DJ’s touchdowns.

 

Now, if we can just get some linemen…

 

All the ASU highlights of Badger had him showing YAC. With DJ, he is getting open down the field.

By the way, has anyone watched ASU this year? Do they have anymore WRs that may want to transfer?

 

If DJ stays there are going to be receivers from all over begging to come here for their last season or two.

 

We saw some monster blocks in this game, even by some of the players that didn't always shine. George had some great blocks, including some pass blocking against Walker that stoned him. After one of them, Walker gave a fist of frustration to George's chest.

 

Badger had horrible QB and OL at ASU who didn't dare throw the ball more than 5 yards past the LOS. It is no surprise that UF looked good to him.

 

Good break down




Strengths:

•Deep threat ability: Badger has shown an elite ability to stretch defenses, with his big-play capability highlighted by a 23.8-yard average per catch.
•Route running: He is a fluid and technically sound route-runner, consistently creating separation.
•Hands: Possesses reliable hands, making difficult catches in traffic look routine.
•YAC (Yards After Catch): Dangerous in the open field, with impressive acceleration and agility to turn short catches into long gains.

Weaknesses:

•Physicality: He needs to add more strength to effectively fight off press coverage, as more physical defenders can disrupt his routes.
•Blocking: Blocking is an area of improvement, where more engagement and strength are needed.
•Consistency: While he flashes brilliance, Badger needs to dominate more consistently to elevate his draft stock further.

NFL Draft Projection:

Badger is currently projected as a Day 2 pick (Rounds 2-3). His elite speed, big-play potential, and route-running skills make him an appealing prospect for NFL teams that need a vertical threat. His performance at Florida has boosted his draft outlook, especially given his ability to produce explosive plays.

NFL Comparisons:

•Ceiling: Will Fuller – Badger has the potential to become a premier deep-threat receiver, stretching defenses with his speed and ability to track the ball downfield.
•Floor: Mack Hollins – He could settle into a role as a solid complementary receiver, contributing as a field-stretcher but without developing into a true WR1.

Conclusion:

Elijhah Badger’s ability to make explosive plays downfield has transformed him into one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects in college football. His standout speed and reliable hands make him a threat at all levels of the field, particularly as a deep-ball specialist. While he will need to work on his strength and consistency to maximize his potential, Badger’s high ceiling makes him an appealing option for teams looking for a playmaker in the NFL. With his current trajectory, he could carve out a valuable role as a rookie, especially in offenses designed to highlight his vertical abilities.

 

This a million times. Also has a lot to do with Lag who throws to a dime.

 

Emory Jones?

 

Well, he kept AR on the bench i guess.

 

His play reminds me of Toney's first 3 years, but without as much wiggle. Maybe he can make the jump to an elite receiver like Toney did in his senior year. He needs to play a lot of catch with Lagway until they are in synch.

 

Toney spent too much time running in the wrong direction and had some big drops his first few years. Tre hasn’t really had either of those issues. He’s not nearly the jitterbug Toney was either. I don’t see the similarity.

 

Pearsall wasnt elite? I think wilson gets more attention from Mertz than DJ because DJ is going downfield for physical receivers that go get the ball. Wilson probably not 109% and isnt the jump ball type off receiver. He will get his as defenses adjust to DJ.

 

What about Wilson's

What about Wilson's stats tells you he is elite?

• 2023 rec 61 538yards 8.8 avg 6tds
• 2024. Rec 19 266yards 14.0 avg 10th

I loved Pearsall games last season. He was the best wr we had by far. He literally had only 4 more catches but 400 more yards. It would drive me nuts last year, that during whole quarters he would either not be targeted or not in the game.

The point is the hype of this great talent, but the stats do not show that, nor does the lack of consistent elite game production.

 

Goes and gets the ball. And had the physical tools to boot.

 

Billy N or Billy G? I guess both should get equal credit.

 

Hes been hurt all year and he was a freshman last year.