Ladd McConkey NFL Draft Overview
Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 185
School: Georgia Bulldogs
Awards:
- 2023 Wuerffel Trophy Winner
- 2023 Allstate AFC Good Works Team
Ladd McConkey NFL Draft Profile
Early Success
After redshirting his freshman season in 2020, Ladd McConkey emerged as a key contributor to Georgia’s offense throughout his three years in Athens. He earned a spot on the Coaches’ Freshman All-SEC Team in his first season in 2021, finishing with 31 catches (the second-highest on the team) for 447 yards and five touchdowns. McConkey’s rapport with Stetson Bennett made him a favored target. In 2022, he excelled, earning recognition on the Coaches’ All-SEC Second Team. McConkey finished the season with the second-highest number of receptions on the team, tallying 58 catches for 762 yards and seven touchdowns. During his first two years, McConkey showcased himself as a dependable receiver and able to bring a spark to the Georgia offense.
Ladd McConkey said 🤫 @GeorgiaFootball pic.twitter.com/IT6XVTYxF3
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) November 13, 2022
2023 Injury Frustrations
Quality outweighed quantity for McConkey and Georgia in 2023. Despite facing injuries and health challenges throughout the season, McConkey persisted and remained undeterred. “Definitely been frustrating,” McConkey said. “But at the end of the day, it’s football. It’s injuries. You can’t really control them. I try to control what I can control and when I get my opportunity to make the most of them.” Playing in only nine games in 2023, McConkey’s stats look meager; the peace of mind he provided would prove most significant for Carson Beck, Georgia’s new starting quarterback.
McConkey caught four balls for 38 yards in Week 5 against Auburn. Despite missing the first four weeks, his quarterback knew right where one of his favorite targets would be. “He’s so smart and articulate in how he runs routes, and we’re always on the same page. He’s a hell of a player that makes it easy.” Beck and McConkey joined as Freshmen in 2020, banking many reps together. He may have only had 30 receptions on the season, but each one seemed like it helped Georgia keep the chains moving down the field. McConkey tried to play through pain in the SEC Championship game but couldn’t. His absence was felt and a contributing factor to why Georiga’s offense failed to get going on that fateful Saturday.
McConkey could have ended his career in Atlanta and started to prepare for the NFL Draft, but like so many of his teammates, he decided to play. Georgia could do no wrong in Miami Gardens that night, and it looked as if it was the healthiest McConkey was all season. Mike Bobo drew up a final trick play for McConkey, but he showcased his athleticism and skill again for the Georgia fans and NFL Draft scouts.
LADD MCCONKEY TO THE HOUSE ‼️
IT'S BEEN ALL GEORGIA IN THE ORANGE BOWL
(via @SEC)pic.twitter.com/oFpBiG2Ggb
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) December 30, 2023
Leader On The Field
McConkey, recipient of the Leader Off the Field Wuerffel Trophy for his outstanding community service, athletic prowess, and academic excellence, has been recognized as a member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. As part of his commitment to giving back, McConkey has dedicated his time to various charitable causes, including visiting Camp Rainbow for children with cancer, the Elks Aidmore foster care center, and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Additionally, he has actively participated in initiatives such as Read Across America, volunteered at the local food bank, and supported the Athens Homeless Shelter.
Senior Bowl
McConkey has elevated his draft stock this last week at the Senior Bowl. He looks healthy and is finally at 100% this season. McConkey definitely has been turning more than just opposing DBs’ heads this week.
“If anyone was sleeping on what McConkey is capable of heading into this week at the Senior Bowl, they aren’t anymore. The Bulldogs star is a thoughtful route-runner who attacks defenses with a well-defined route plan. On Tuesday, he was able to create separation left and right. His ability to uncover and make the tough catch should continue into Day 2 because he’s proven he can do it consistently.” –Lance Zierlein & Eric Edholm, NFL.com.
NFL Draft Projection
Scouting Report:
“One of our best route runners, he’s extremely quick in short areas and then has great long speed. He’s good with the ball in his hand after the catch, a guy you can give or throw it to.”
– Mike Bobo, Georgia Offensive Coordinator.
“A smart player, McConkey’s adaptability and work ethic could see him carve out a significant role in an NFL offense, especially in schemes that can exploit his agility and route-running savvy.” – NFL Draft Buzz
Strengths
- Proficient in route running
- Skilled in tracking deep balls
- Exceptional at blocking on the perimeter
Weaknesses
- Struggles to get consistent separation
- Lacks size and stature to play on the outside
Draft Projection: 2nd Round
