FantasyPros will be taking a look at early NFL Draft scouting reports before the Combine in March. Here’s a look at Rice wide receiver Luke McCaffrey.
2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Luke McCaffrey
Luke McCaffrey (WR – Rice)
6’2” – 195 lbs.
Background:
His father is legendary receiver Ed McCaffrey and his brother is 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey. Three-star quarterback/athlete recruit who originally attended Nebraska where he spent two years as a quarterback (two starts in 11 appearances) before transferring to Louisville — where he didn’t play — and then Rice. Started three out of nine games played at quarterback in 2021. Transitioned to receiver in 2022 and caught 58-723-6 (12.5). This past season he went 68-963-12 (14.2) to conclude his collegiate career.
Positives:
A relatively tall, productive two-year starter and team captain with excellent bloodlines. Was able to transition from quarterback to receiver pretty smoothly. Takes over 70% of his snaps out of the slot, running a lot of outs, speed outs, flat releases, shallow crosses, ins and angle routes. Clean footwork to release against press coverage. Flashes the ability to get low and uses his footwork to freeze defenders sitting in off-coverage, creating windows for in-breaking routes. Has some savvy to sell fakes and changing speeds to create windows. Offers a reliable pair of hands — eight drops against 131 career catches. Frame, length and above-average flexibility give him a solid catch radius. Adjusts well to off-target throws. Has been reliable in contested catch situations, with good focus. Tough player who can hang on through contact. Adequate blocker who gets down in his seat and uses his length effectively. Has done a bit of work from wildcat looks as well.
Negatives:
His frame is on the thin side. Speed looks average at best, without a second gear; not going to run away from too many cornerbacks. A lot of his production during the games reviewed came against zone coverage. Doesn’t have a ton of burst or explosiveness at the stem to generate separation against man coverage; would like to see more consistent window-dressing, hip sink and overall attention to detail. Can struggle to stay on track against physical off-coverage. Doesn’t have great strength to box out opposing defenders.
Summary:
A tall slot receiver who comes from a football family with a sterling reputation, and who shows some appealing route-running traits for someone who only played the position for two years in college. Presents a relatively big target because of his size, length and ability to adjust to throws. Is a reliable hands-catcher as well. However, his lack of ideal speed and explosiveness may make it difficult for him to win against man coverage at the next level. Projects as more of a late-round pick.
Projection: Round 6
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | SoundCloud | iHeartRadio
For more from Matthew, check out his archive and follow him @draftexaminer.
