04/30/2012 - A closer look at the Bills' picks: Round 3/69 - T.J. Graham, WR, 6-0, 180, North Carolina State...The Bills liked Graham so much they gave a seventh-round pick to Washington to move up two spots but this may have been a reach this high. Track star does fill need for deep speed and he's ACC's career kickoff return leader. - The Sports Xchange
T.J. Graham was a bigger track star than wide receiver in high school, laying claim to a 10.44 100 meters vs. 7 catches for the entire season as a senior at WR.
Graham was initially used mostly as a kick returner for NC State, but grew as a football player and became a standout receiver by the end of his senior campaign, finishing 2011 with 46 catches for 757 yards and 7 TDs, including a breakout performance in his final game against Louisville in the Belk Bowl. Statistically, Graham has been better returning punts than kickoffs, and has set numerous all purpose yardage records.
As an NFL Draft prospect, Graham is cut from the classic slot/PR mold. Likely too small framed for full time WR duty, Graham is quick and fast, and projects to get separation in the NFL against nickel corners. Despite his small size, Graham gives great effort as a blocker and team things like tackling the defender who just made the interception. Given his rather short football career to date, the fact that Graham's performance as a WR kept improving as time went forward gives reason for hope that there could be more upside.
Analysis
Strengths: Fast, quick, decent turning, gets consistent separation. True burner with deep speed. Versatile enough to effectively handle WR, slot, PR, and KR duty. Makes good effort to secure the ball. Legit NFL PR talent. Energetic, healthy, inspiring, hard working team leader who keeps getting better.
Weaknesses: Has a small, thin frame and is a bit high cut in that frame. Hips are loose for a track star, but not for a slot/PR. Catching the ball has been inconsistent but improving. Can drop easy balls, sometimes body catches, and does not always track the ball well. Leg stress fracture in 2009 needs to be checked.
NFL Comparison: Andre Davis - Houston Texans
--Brad Noel
