Biography: Three-year starter named Big East Special Teams Player of the Year last season. Senior receiving totals included 87/1191/11 when he also averaged 12.6 yards on 16 punt returns, with another score and 30.5 yards on 42 kick returns with two additional touchdowns. The junior receiving totals included 81/1276/11.

Positives: Natural pass catcher and displays good focus, concentration, as well a soft hands. Effortlessly makes the reception in contorted positions, plucks the ball from the air, and is elusive running after the reception. Displays a sense of timing and always works his way back into the open spot to make himself an available receiver. Quickly transitions from making the catch to running after the reception, plays with a nice degree of quickness and always works to pick up positive yardage. Consistently makes the difficult over the shoulder reception downfield or catches the pass without breaking stride. Elusive and displays the ability to create yardage whenever he handles the ball. Consistently alters the momentum of games with long returns of punts and kicks.

Negatives: Game-breaking skill player who is a threat to score any time the ball is in his hands. Really does not show the deep speed or second gear. Stands to improve his route running. Lacks the classic size most teams want in a number one receiver.

Analysis: Gilyard has been incredibly productive the past two seasons after breaking in with the first team as a sophomore. He's the go-to guy on the Cincinnati offense whom opponents cannot stop despite the fact they constantly focus on him. Gilyard offers a large degree of upside potential and should immediately impact a team as a number two receiver and dangerous return specialist.

Projection: 2nd