2014 NFL Draft: Marqise Lee Scouting Report

Marqise Lee

USC, WR
Height: 6.0
Weight: 192
40yd: 4.52
Age: 22

Strengths:

Possessing very good playing speed and quickness to get vertical and gain separation. Accelerates very well and is very agile to break ankles and shake corners. Gets off the line quickly when not pressed and can get going in a hurry. Breakaway threat who must be accounted for and can burn slower, less instinctive defenders. Has excellent body control to lay out and scoop up low passes. Can stay in bounds along the sideline and dot the “i.” Ran a more complex route tree than most at the collegiate level at USC and gets in and out of his cuts with flexible ankles. Did not go over the middle much but shows the toughness to do so and hold on when the situation calls for it. Three year starter with electrifying production his first two years when healthy. Has very good football character and has overcome a lot.

Weaknesses:

Lacks much strength and power in his game. Has a thin build. Does not too break too many tackles after the catch. Can be held up at the line fairly easily and get bumped and rerouted. Relies purely on quickness and speed to get open. Does not have great hands and body catches and basket catches the majority of his receptions. Is not natural reaching outside of his frame and plucking the football. Underpowered blocker and mostly just gets in the way. Was banged up his junior year and really took a step back, posting the lowest stat line of his career by far. Struggled to stay 100% much during the season and lack of durability and frame to withstand NFL contact is a concern. Lacks exceptional traits as a punt and kick returner.

Red Flags: Size, Minor Durability Concerns

Bottom Line: A highly athletic receiver, Lee’s draft stock took a significant hit during an injury-plagued junior season. When healthy, Lee is an electrifying receiver who can make big plays and threaten to score on any play. However, Lee will have to prove he can stay healthy if he’s going to have a chance to produce in the NFL like he did his first two years with the Trojans. Can fit in either a West Coast or vertical offense, but should thrive on deep routes.

Comparison: Victor Cruz

Grade: 8.9 (2^nd Round)

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