Michael Wilson NFL Draft Preview
Michael Wilson NFL Draft Preview
A top 35 recruit coming out of high school, Michael Wilson still retains upside despite an up-and-down college career. Specifically, Wilson had two season-ending injuries in 2020 and 2022 that robbed Wilson of significant playing time. Still, he has the right blend of size and ball-catching ability that can benefit an NFL offense. And he brings a ton to the table beyond just receiving yards, as his blocking is elite and he profiles as a plus punt gunner. Those traits don’t get you fantasy points, but they do land you on a roster and pave the way for receptions. And if Wilson can stay healthy, he could put up points.
MEASURABLES
- 6’2″ 213 lbs
- 40-yard dash – 4.58 seconds
- Vertical Jump – 37.5″
- Broad Jump – 10’5″
STATS AT STANFORD
- 2022: 26 catches, 418 yards, 4 TDs
- 2021: 19 catches, 185 yards, 0 TDs
- 2020: 19 catches, 261 yards, 1 TD
- 2019: 56 catches, 672 yards, 5 TDs
- 2018: 14 catches, 126 yards, 1 TD
POSITIVES
Wilson isn’t a burner or a big play magnet but does a ton of things very well. He has great play speed and uses his size effectively to shield defenders and make contested catches. His motor is non-stop and it aids him before and after the catch. Also has the versatility to play the X, Z, and slot. His ball skills are great as well and he shows terrific ability with the ball in the air. Both injuries and horrendous quarterback play dampened output.
NEGATIVES
Staying healthy is obviously a big concern; Wilson only played 14 games in the past three years. Despite his age, he is still very raw in a number of areas. Routes need to be cleaned up; there’s way too much-wasted motion that allows corners to get back on him. Press coverage is an area of major development as he gets held up too often.
Grade: B-
Michael Wilson gets lost in the shuffle a bit in this class because of his injury history and lack of college production. But if you watch the film, Wilson offers a ton for an NFL team. There is still plenty of development to be done and the injuries are obviously a concern, but I really like Wilson’s chances of sticking on an NFL team. It’s TBD if he will see the field enough to put up startable fantasy points, but he should be on your radar as a late-round flyer.
Patrick Whelan is a 34-year-old fantasy football writer, dynasty league enthusiast, and DFS player based out of Chicago. When he’s not watching his Detroit Lions disappoint on Sundays, he’s crafting brand strategy for Gatorade, rooting on his Michigan Wolverines, or cooking elaborate meals. You can follow him on Twitter @PdiddyWay
