Ryan Broyles, WR

04/29/2012 - A closer look at the Lions' picks: Round 2/54 - Ryan Broyles, WR, 5-10, 192, Oklahoma...The Lions are convinced his surgically-repaired knee is sound and they were overwhelmed by his production. They see him as a faster version Wes Welker. - The Sports Xchange

Full Ryan Broyles News Wire

Broyles went down with a torn left ACL in November, but not before he became the NCAA leader with 349 career receptions. His health, in addition to limited size, height and bulk, is a hurdle but scouts believe in his work ethic and dedication. Being unable to answer the bigger concern -- straight-line speed -- will drop him on many draft boards. Value hunters who appreciate him as a football player won't be swayed. Broyles said he was ready to work out for teams just five months after his knee surgery, and if he proves healthy in pre-draft workouts he could shoot up to the middle rounds.

Positives: Shows quickness off the snap to shake off corners and create room. Separates with hesitation moves and nice acceleration. Hands and toughness are among his greatest strengths. Extends arms to snatch throws outside his frame. Good sideline awareness. Works the middle of the field effectively. An elusive runner with shifty hips and toughness. Has long arms to stiff-arm defensive backs in the open field. Willing to lower his pads to run through tackles for extra yardage. Goes over the middle, can spin out of tackles and take the big hit. Return skills come from that quick burst and his ability to wiggle through creases in full speed. Negatives: Torn left ACL raises durability questions for a player whose speed has long been a concern. Will struggle to get off the jam at the next level because of his size. Dances more often than you'd like as a returner. Quick, not fast, and is often caught from behind. Gives effort, but he's not a blocking threat.