I agree that there are question marks surrounding DHB, particularly because his numbers weren't great in college. But a college player's production is not the only indicator of success. Also, it is foolish to discount a player's ability because he has similar attributes to a previous NFL bust. Troy Williamson had all the speed in the world and he was actually getting open in Minny. The problem was that he could not adjust to the ball once it was thrown: he had very bad hand-eye coordination. I even heard there was something wrong with his eyes. Comparing Williamson to DHB just because they are both fast and unproductive in college, is ridiculous. If college production is so important, how come Mike Hart isn't productive in Indy? How come Jason White isn't a starting QB? The list goes on. Bottom line: you evaluate players by watching their college film, having them perform drills, and by thinking how they would fit into your system. If you think you can teach a player a few things, and if you think the player is coachable, then you can take a player for their potential. If Ryan and Shotty think that DHB can be coached to run better routes and that he fits the Jets' system, then they should take him.
In college you dont have to be a physical freak to be one of the best. If you are one of the most determined, ala mike hart, you can be good. Once you hit the NFL though you basically need to be a physical freak. Even the average starters are physical freaks (especially at the skill positions) as compared to college players. DHB is certainly a physical freak, no one here is denying that. The problem is, being that ridiculous an athlete and not being able to produce with decent talent around you is a big time reason for a guy to be redflagged. It is incredibly rare that a guy who is absolute garbage in college goes on to be an all pro in the NFL. It doesnt happen often, no matter what their physical attributes. Heck if their measurables are that amazing, how come they cant get open in college? I mean DHB had 42 receptions in his senior year, 42! a guy like kenny Britt who is only half as physically gifted, was one of the best recievers in college football! Britt may not pan out at the NFL level because he isnt as physical a freak as he needs to be that prototypical #1. But in my opinion, he will at his worst case, be better than DHB. I see DHB as a Devery Henderson guy, your 4th reciever who is the pure home run hitter, he isnt suited for the slot and is no where near good enough at getting open to be a top 2 wr.
DHB regressed in his junior season (he's coming out early). He had 51 receptions and 786 yards as a sophomore. If he played another year, he might have brought up his numbers, but it's pointless to speculate. Cotchery had 71 receptions last year in 16 games. If DHB played 16 games, his reception total would have projected to 50 as a junior and 62 when he was a sophomore. DHB's stats aren't great, but I don't think they're as bad as you're making them out to be. I've said in this in the few posts that I've made over the last couple of months: I think team management is more important than a team's roster. You can give the Lions or the Raiders all the talent in the world, but their management and player development is putrid. That's why they haven't sniffed the playoffs in almost a decade. If DHB is drafted by Indy or Pitt, he will be serviceable to possibly being great. In terms of athleticism, DHB is top 10 in this draft. If Ryan and Shotty think they can use him well within our system, I'm all for taking DHB. That being said, I'll still boo if the Jets take someone I don't like.
Btw, this is the only thing I can guarantee. Whomever the Jets take, this will happen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCXymxtZjnY&feature=related
