Hakeem Nicks SELECTED BY: Giants Round 1 (29)

SI Grade 3.95 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter awarded all-Conference honors the past two years. Junior totals included 68/1,222/12 after junior totals of 74/958/5, when he set a school record for receptions. Freshman numbers included 39 receptions. Led the Tar Heels in receiving the past three years.

POSITIVES: Large, physically gifted pass catcher who plays much faster than his forty time. Very athletic, easily adjusts to the errant pass, and makes a lot of difficult receptions. Gets vertical in a crowd, exposes himself to the big hit, but comes down with the ball. Displays quickness into breaks, comes back to the pass and gets separation from defenders. Extends and offers the quarterback a nice target. Quickly transitions from making the catch to running after the reception. Effectively uses his frame to shield away defenders and protect the pass. Consistently makes the reception with his hands and keeps the play in bounds, working to pick up positive yardage.

NEGATIVES: Not overly quick releasing off the line into routes. Not a true speedster and will have difficulty getting downfield separation at the next level. Does not display consistently soft hands.

ANALYSIS: Nicks has been a productive receiver at North Carolina the past three years, and he offers the skills that translate well to the next level. He has the ability to be used in a variety of offensive systems, and he has enough upside potential to develop into a number one receiver for an NFL team.

PROJECTION: Second Round