Jayden Reed (Packers) NFL Draft Preview
Post-Draft Fantasy Impact
Draft Team: Green Bay Packers, Round 2, 19th pick (50th overall)
As a Michigan fan, I’ve seen up close just how good Jayden Reed can be. A talented wide receiver with above-average skills across the board and a player who can play multiple positions, Reed can certainly be a good pro. Green Bay put a premium on his profile making Reed their second-round pick as they continue to rebuild their wide receiver room without Davante Adams. That being said, even with some Reed PTSD, did I see him as the 6th best receiver off the board? Certainly not. I’m pretty sure the scouts in Green Bay know more than me, but this was an interesting reach for the Packers, who have shied away from receivers in the past.
Reed immediately throttles toward the top of a depth chart that is begging for talent after the departures of Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb. With only Christian Watson and the enigmatic Romeo Doubs above him, Reed is already practicing with the starters in OTAs and will likely see a heavy snap count in his rookie season. The combination of draft capital and playing time alone make Reed an appealing draft consideration.
The question mark for Green Bay is obviously at the quarterback position. With Aaron Rodgers in New York, it’s the Jordan Love era. Love has looked pretty good in his relief appearances for Rodgers, but taking on the starting role is a different animal. How he rises to the occasion will directly impact Reed’s near-term value.
Still, with an appealing combination of playing time, draft capital, and a potentially ascending quarterback, it’s easy to see why Reed has an early second-round dynasty draft profile. The key is to not get too wrapped up in immediate targets. While Reed is a good player, I liked him much more with his pervious 4th round dynasty ADP than his current early second-round valuation. I’m still high on him, but that draft spot is likely too rich for my blood.
Jayden Reed NFL Draft
A jack-of-all-trades wide receiver at Michigan State (and previously Western Michigan,) Jayden Reed has the knack for the big play. While his measurables, athleticism, and speed seem middle of the road, Reed’s ability to contribute all over the field can’t be overlooked heading into the 2023 Draft. It might take a good landing spot and a capable offensive coordinator to get the most out of Reed, but if things fall his way and he continues to develop his big play ability, Reed could be a long-time pro and a dynasty steal.
MEASURABLES
- 5’11” 187 lbs
- 40-yard dash – 4.45 seconds
- Vertical Jump – 33.5″
- Broad Jump – 10’1″
STATS AT WESTERN MICHIGAN (2018) AND MICHIGAN STATE
- 2022: 55 catches, 636 yards, 5 TDs
- 2021: 59 catches, 1026 yards, 10 TDs
- 2020: 33 catches, 407 yards, 3 TDs
- 2018: 56 catches, 797 yards, 8 TDs
POSITIVES
As mentioned in the overview, Reed just has a knack for a big play, and came up huge time and time again for Michigan State. He has a high compete and his contested ability is top-notch despite a smaller frame and below-average catch radius. He shows good explosion and initial break and has a good feel for the position that allows him to create nuanced separation. Good with the ball in his hands and was used all over the field in the X, Z, slot, backfield, and even quarterback positions.
NEGATIVES
Consistent separation has been an issue for Reed, and he’s often forced into the spectacular because he isn’t open as often as he should be as a WR1. The catch focus was up and down and will need to work hard on his consistency at the next level. Speed is average, enough to get by but not a real weapon. Route running could use work, tightness in and out of breaks limits their effectiveness. Just might not have the juice to be a true weapon and dynasty contributor, profiles more as a WR3.
GRADE: B-
While Jayden Reed has limiting factors in his size, catch radius, and overall athleticism, it feels like his overall skill at the position and knack for creating the big play will win out. Despite being a red-shirt senior, there is still development to be had here, so you will have to sit on Reed as a dynasty player. But it does feel like he has real upside ability, especially when given competent quarterback play. By the fourth round of your drafts, you are taking long shots anyway, and Reed makes a decently appealing long shot at the wide receiver position, especially with a good landing spot.
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
