Maclin is entering the draft.
Sources: Wells, Crabtree, Maclin to Declare
FROM MATT BOWEN:
Trusted sources close to the National Football Post have just informed me that Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree, Ohio State running back Beanie Wells and Missouri wide receiver Jeremy Maclin all intend to declare for the 2009 NFL Draft in the very near future.
The 6'3, 214 pound Crabtree caught 97 passes (8th nationally) for 1,165 yards (13th) and 19 touchdowns (2nd) this season while leading the Red Raiders to an 11-2 record.
Missouri wide receiver Jeremy Maclin caught 102 passes (6th) for 1,260 yards (11th) and 13 scores for the Tigers this past year. Maclin was a consensus All-American in 2007. He's scheduled a press conference for Friday morning to announce his decision to turn pro.
Jeremy Maclin WR Missouri
Maclin exhibits elite speed (4.38) and explosion for the receiver position. Possesses good overall size, at 6-1, 200 pounds and demonstrates impressive athleticism for his size. Showcases great body control and quickness in and out of his breaks and displays the ability to change direction on a dime. Has improved dramatically as a receiver since last season and led Missouri with 102 receptions for 1,260 yards. Is a consistent deep threat that has the ability to run by corners and get down the field. Has the shiftiness to beat bump coverage off the line, as well as eat up cushions in off-coverage quickly. He still needs to become a better route runner, as he has a tendency to round his routes at times and lacks sharpness out of his breaks. But, Maclin is a dynamic punt/ kick returner that displays the vision and athletic ability to take it the distance every time he touches the ball. Is dynamic in the open field and is very dangerous after the catch. Has the ability to go from 0-100 in two steps and gets up to speed instantly. He reminds some scouts from an athletic standpoint of Bears receiver Devin Hester, but he is a far more polished pass catcher and route runner.
Maclin will battle Texas Tech receiver Michael Crabtree to be the first receiver off the board in April. Expect Maclin to be drafted some time during the early to middle stages of round one. It is a known fact that Raiders owner Al Davis is always enticed by speed, and Maclin has plenty to burn. If Maclin runs as well as expected at the combine, the Raiders are a definite landing spot for Maclin at pick seven. Also, expect the Bears to have interest in him at pick 18, as Chicago is still in desperate need of a top receiving threat.
