While I am projecting Elijah Higgins forward as an X receiver, he might be better suited in a big slot role. He’s a huge receiver, built sturdy, and more like a running back, Higgins has solid speed and athletic ability and can be coupled with his powerful frame to be a force in an NFL secondary. The issue with Higgins will be separation, as we’re looking at a DK Metcalf-type evaluation. He’s got the speed but doesn’t change direction well – will that limit him or can he play the X? We should have a much better answer to that question after a week in Mobile.

Elijah Higgins

X WR – Stanford Cardinal

HT: 6021
WT: 235
Year: Super Junior
High School: Bowie (Austin, TX)
Rating: 4-star (0.9601)

Projected Draft Grade:

Projection:

Elijah Higgins scouting notes

Pros:

• Solid speed for the position. Reportedly hit 21.5 MPH on a 56-yard touchdown catch in 2021. 
• Has some nuances down in his route running, but not a whole lot yet. Understands how to use his lean pretty effectively. 
• Has a decent release through press. 
• Very natural receiver. Excellent hands. Shows an extended catch radius, and catches well outside of his frame. 
• Shows the ability to catch well through contact and maintain focus through traffic. 
• Offers good red zone ability. Has the size to out body defenders, and has the ability to catch well enough through traffic and contact to be effective. 

Cons:

• Average change of direction. 
• Lacks some explosion that some receivers have in this class. 
• He doesn’t show me anything particularly special as a route runner, but is consistently in the right spot to make the catch. It takes a few too many steps through breaks, will need to clean that up.