Robert Woods, WR

04/25/2013 - 2013 NFL DRAFT: SIX GUYS WHO MAY SNEAK INTO THE FIRST ROUND: 3. Robert Woods, WR USC: Woods has been lurking behind Cordarrelle Paterson, Tavon Austin, Keenan Allen and Justin Hunter for most of the spring, but his name keeps popping up when I'm discussing the wide receivers in the draft. One coach said, "I was impressed with Woods' route running, knowledge of the game, work ethic and toughness; he's a safe pick even in the first round." Will he beat some of the aforementioned wideouts to the podium Thursday night? Possibly. - Pat Kirwan, CBSSports.com

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Because of Woods' reliable route-running, soft hands and toughness, he served not only as Matt Barkley's most trusted option on "money" downs but as the Trojans' primary punt returner, as well. Woods, who caught just three passes for 33 yards in his final game as a Trojan, leaves USC with 252 career catches for 2,930 yards and 32 touchdowns.

As if typical for USC wide receivers, he signed as a coveted prospect and hit the ground running, earning the Pac-10 Freshman of the Year award in 2010, starting all 13 games and leading the team with 792 receiving yards.

He was a Biletnikof finalist, catching an eye-popping 112 passes for 1,292 yards and 15 touchdowns as a true sophomore, and 76-846-11 as a junior in 2012.

STRENGTHS: Savvy hands-catcher and does a nice job making plays in stride. Polished and crafty route runner and does a nice job changing speeds in his patterns to keep defenders off balance.

Sharp in-and-out of his breaks with strong plant-and-go quickness. Not naturally explosive but accelerates quickly with very good body control and balance. Fast hands with very good hand/eye coordination and drops are rare with him. Fluid frame and smooth hips to adjust and make tough catches. Can climb the ladder and snatch the ball out of the air.

A lot of screens and asked to create on his own with good vision with the ball in his hands. Deceiving strength to come down with contested grabs with the toughness and fearless attitude to fight for every yard and go over the middle. Unselfish player and gives good effort as a blocker.

Always looking to get better and improve, known as a strong practice player and hard worker. Good production the past three seasons, leaving college with 252 career receptions and experience as a kickoff and punt returner.

WEAKNESSES: Not an elite size/speed/strength athlete and has some stiffness in his ankles. Lacks track-like speed and won't be able to win with his wheels alone. Limited bulk and muscle tone and can be out-muscled in his routes.

Needs to stay controlled in his routes and has the bad habit of extending his arms downfield and will be flagged for pushing off. Gets himself in trouble when trying to retreat or go backwards, either as a receiver or return man. Overzealous blocker and needs to improve his technique. Had concussion symptoms vs. Utah in 2012 and battled several ankle issues over his career.

COMPARES TO: Donald Driver, WR, ex-Packers - Similar athletes with average size and build for the position, but are able to be productive with smooth routes and consistency catching the ball.

--Rob Rang