Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
The negative thread about Heyward-Bey I will create threads about a few of the players in the 2009 draft. Why should I not draft this guy in my dynasty rookie draft?
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What do you not like about Darius Heyward-Bey (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter Hoss_Cartwright
- Start date
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
He's raw and doesn't have a lot of experience. I don't know the answer to this, but my guess is that the bust factor is very high with these type of WRs. I'm not sure I would take him in the top 7 of a dynasty draft. After that he starts to become a bargin.
MAC_32
Footballguy
The risk is not worth the reward imo, high upside raw prospects are good later round picks, not round 1.
Domination
Footballguy
He will probably be good in a few years, but you could get a better player now with that spot.
FUBAR
Footballguy
IMO, he's an ideal pick around 1.10-1.12. Good reward potential, risk, and he probably won't produce for a few years. Usually, the teams who own those picks unless they traded for them) have good teams currently and can afford some risk.
I don't like that he'll probably go earlier.
I don't like that he'll probably go earlier.
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
What's his worth if he lands on a high flying offense with a great QB? I would say around 1.7 - 1.8.
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
Darrius Heyward-Bey: Boom or Bust?
By Jordan Mollins
One of the biggest boom or bust prospects in the NFL draft this year happens to come from the University of Maryland. There have been conflicting feelings about wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, as opinions have ranged from “he will be the best receiver in this (receiver heavy) draft class” to “I wouldn’t touch him” and “he has bust written all over him.”
As a Terp fan, I have seen DHB in action on many occasions, and I believe he is a great NFL prospect who could be a star receiver one day. I wouldn’t draft him, however, in the first round as many project.
Heyward-Bey’s draft stock is sure to fly after the combine as he is a 6′2 receiver with an unofficial 40 time of 4.28, but what he did in college doesn’t worry a first round selection. I like Maryland football as much as anyone else, and I’d gladly defend anyone on the team that I could but the team has been devoid of an even decent quarterback since Heyward-Bey’s freshman season. Since that season, with no quarterback who could get him the ball while seeing double teams every game, Heyward-Bey’s stats haven’t really improved, and in fact his junior year (this past season) they got worse.
Should Heyward-Bey have stayed in college, he probably would be one of the top 2 receivers to go in the draft next year, but this year Michael Crabtree, Jeremy Macklin, and Percy Harvin will all go ahead of him. Then again, if Heyward-Bey put up the numbers he did this past season again during his senior campaign maybe his stock would have dropped.
The Giants presumably have an opening at receiver, and DHB would bolster their receiving corps. New York is his most likely destination in the first round.
By Jordan Mollins
One of the biggest boom or bust prospects in the NFL draft this year happens to come from the University of Maryland. There have been conflicting feelings about wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, as opinions have ranged from “he will be the best receiver in this (receiver heavy) draft class” to “I wouldn’t touch him” and “he has bust written all over him.”
As a Terp fan, I have seen DHB in action on many occasions, and I believe he is a great NFL prospect who could be a star receiver one day. I wouldn’t draft him, however, in the first round as many project.
Heyward-Bey’s draft stock is sure to fly after the combine as he is a 6′2 receiver with an unofficial 40 time of 4.28, but what he did in college doesn’t worry a first round selection. I like Maryland football as much as anyone else, and I’d gladly defend anyone on the team that I could but the team has been devoid of an even decent quarterback since Heyward-Bey’s freshman season. Since that season, with no quarterback who could get him the ball while seeing double teams every game, Heyward-Bey’s stats haven’t really improved, and in fact his junior year (this past season) they got worse.
Should Heyward-Bey have stayed in college, he probably would be one of the top 2 receivers to go in the draft next year, but this year Michael Crabtree, Jeremy Macklin, and Percy Harvin will all go ahead of him. Then again, if Heyward-Bey put up the numbers he did this past season again during his senior campaign maybe his stock would have dropped.
The Giants presumably have an opening at receiver, and DHB would bolster their receiving corps. New York is his most likely destination in the first round.
PlasmaDogPlasma
Footballguy
PICK ONE!
FUBAR
Footballguy
Put him in Indianapolis and I'll draft him just after the big 3 RBs, Crabtree, Maclin, and maybe Greene/Brown. So 6-8 as a high.
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
Darrius Heyward-Bey-WR-Player Feb. 19 - 1:04 am et
Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey has reportedly been cracking the 4.2s during test runs at the Athletes' Performance Institute.
Heyward-Bey ran 4.23 as a freshman in college. He's bigger than he was then, but the high 4.2s should be about right. DHB will draw a lot of attention this week. It will also be interesting to see how tall he actually is Thursday.
Source: New Orleans Times-Picayune
Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey has reportedly been cracking the 4.2s during test runs at the Athletes' Performance Institute.
Heyward-Bey ran 4.23 as a freshman in college. He's bigger than he was then, but the high 4.2s should be about right. DHB will draw a lot of attention this week. It will also be interesting to see how tall he actually is Thursday.
Source: New Orleans Times-Picayune
FunkyPlutos
Footballguy
So you do NOT like the possibility of him running in the 4.2's?
offdee
Footballguy
The time is now to make up your mind about DHB and stick to your guns when it comes draft time. There is absolutely no doubt that he is going to put up excellent numbers at the combine and the love for him on these boards will rise accordingly based on his measurables.
My eyes tell me he is a bust waiting to happen and regardless of how his measurables stack up I'm not planning to touch him unless he falls quite a bit. Troy Williamson v2.0.
My eyes tell me he is a bust waiting to happen and regardless of how his measurables stack up I'm not planning to touch him unless he falls quite a bit. Troy Williamson v2.0.
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
Maybe I was referring to "It will be interesting to see how tall he actually is"So you do NOT like the possibility of him running in the 4.2's?
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
Does he have hands like Williamson? I don't see how anyone could have hands like him (Willie Gault was close).
offdee
Footballguy
Chad Jackson v2.0 would be another good comparison for me. Below are some copied and pasted snippets I wrote about DHB back on 12/30/08 buried in EBF's top 12 Rookie Rankings thread.---------------------------So, just got done watching the Maryland bowl game from earlier today and came away unimpressed with Darius Heyward-Bay.I know he wasn't playing at 100% health, but he just doesn't seem very "smooth" to me and the injury has nothing to do with what I have an issue with in his game. He's not a natural hands catcher....instincts are to let the ball get into his body and when forced to catch with his hands seems to fight the ball a bit. He may be a burner, but this issue will catch up to him at the next level in my opinion.It actually reminds me a lot of when I was scouting Vernon Davis before the draft (just coincidence both are from Maryland) when everyone was all over his jock of what an NFL stud he would be and I had the exact same concerns with VD....off the chart workout numbers, but not a natural hands catcher and it would affect his upside at the next level. ---------------------------------A team will fall in love with his size and speed and pick him much earlier than he really should (much like they did with Vernon Davis).I'll believe it when I see it, but during the game they reported that coaches have timed DHB in the high 4.2's in the 40. If that happens he could go top 10 which would be a colassel mistake.I actually fell into the VD trap in one of my leagues even though deep down my eyes told me something wasn't right with his game and have regretted it ever since....not going to fall into the DHB trap this time.
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Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
That's some useful information that I will store away, thanks. What it does it make me want to dig deeper into DHB.
Buckeyedawgs
Footballguy
The Eddie Royal of last years draft? And Hoss I have that 1.7 pick now. So you know he will have to get thru me before you even can dream about it. 
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
High risk / reward type of player. If I was a rebuilding team I would want someone safer, otherwise I might risk taking DHB. I want to know more about his hands. I may not have any interest in him come draft time.The Eddie Royal of last years draft? And Hoss I have that 1.7 pick now. So you know he will have to get thru me before you even can dream about it.
RockHard
Footballguy
I think that naturally catching the ball with your hands is overrated. I wouldnt say the TO, Bowe, or Marshall have good hands. IMO the most important skill a reciever needs is the ability to create seperation, something DHB does well.
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
I don't think former Troy Williamson owners would agree with you.
Craig_MiamiFL
Footballguy
Been overhyped the last couple years. Good athlete. Average football player.
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
Drafted by the Raiders has to rank up there with the worst things that could happen to Heyward-Bey owners.
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
1.10 - 2.03 owners are very happy in dynasty leagues.
Brutis
Footballguy
Yep, in PPR he is now undraftable for me. It takes a lot of talent for an organization to make Randy Moss look bad.
Biabreakable
Footballguy
Troy Williamson was always open.Doesen't help when you cannot finish the job.
dotman
Footballguy
True, but just because DHB catches the ball with his body sometimes doesn't make him T.O., and it doesn't make him Troy Williamson either. Both are extreme examples because there's so much more that goes into being a WR. Not only does Troy have awful hands, but he couldn't adjust to the ball either....pretty much a double whammy of things working against you being a WR. DHB may not have great hands but they're not bad, his speed translates to the field, and I can see him playing well at the NFL level. Hopefully he can develop in Oakland (this is the biggest thing working against him) because if he does you have to think him and Jamarcus will be hooking up for some bombs.
Gopher State
Footballguy
I read one pre-draft report that they quoted Bey as being the next Troy Williamson but with worst hands, if this doesn't scare the #### of of you I don't know what will.
Snotbubbles
Footballguy
Bey is a great WR...
...if you need an anchor leg for the 4 x 100 relay.
...if you need an anchor leg for the 4 x 100 relay.
BoulderBob
Footballguy
I like him, future pro-bowler. People will compare him to Williamson, but three years from now we will laugh at the criticism of this pick. I'm completely sold on the guy as a legit stud down the road, assuming he gets a decent QB.
Chadstroma
Footballguy
Besides the Raiders selecting him with the 7th overall pick? Absolutely nothing.
mex
Footballguy
according to this his hands problem is more a concentration issue and has nothing to do with his hands.
By far the fastest player in school history, Heyward-Bey set the Terps record with a 4.23 clocking in the 40-yard dash during 2006 preseason drills. Always known for his blazing speed, he added a new wrinkle to his game the last two seasons, proving to be a dangerous threat on the reverse or when operating out of the backfield as a slot back.
Even though Maryland struggled at the quarterback position and failed to find another big-play receiver to prevent Heyward-Bey from receiving the constant double coverage he experienced throughout his career, he left his mark in the school record books in only three seasons. Even though he never returned a kick or punt, his 2,403 all-purpose yards rank 17th in school annals.
Heyward-Bey's 138 receptions rank third on Maryland's career record chart. His 2,089 yards receiving placed him second in school annals. He also tied for third on the all-time list with 13 touchdown grabs and is tied for sixth with four 100-yard receiving games. The team's third-leading rusher as a junior, he would amass 314 yards with a pair of scores on 25 carries, averaging 12.56 yards per rushing attempt and 14.74 yards on the 163 times he touched the ball. Proving to be the team's money receiver, he generated 228 receiving yards in three bowl appearances.
At McDonogh High School, Heyward-Bey was a standout in football and track. On the gridiron, he earned three letters, starting in each of his final two seasons at receiver and outside linebacker. The consensus All-State selection added Prep Star and Super Prep All-American honors, as Super Prep rated him the 17th-best receiver in the nation. Tom Lemming of ESPN rated him the prep ranks' 23rd-best receiver.
Heyward-Bey received a four-star rating from Rivals.com, as that recruiting service picked him as the fourth-best prospect in the state of Maryland. He added All-Conference and All-Area accolades as a junior and senior. In his final campaign, he had 47 receptions for 821 yards and 10 touchdowns. The previous season, he made 40 catches for 802 yards and 12 scores.
In track, Heyward-Bey received first-team All-American accolades in the indoor 60 meters. He finished fifth at the nationals as a junior as well winning the MIAA championship in the 100 and 200 meters. He was timed at 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at the Nike combine at the University of Virginia and ran a 6.35 in the 55-meter dash in January 2005. He also posted a 40-inch vertical jump at McDonogh High.
Heyward-Bey bypassed scholarship offers from Boston College, Alabama, Pittsburgh, Virginia and Michigan State to enroll at Maryland in 2005. After red-shirting that year, he made a huge impact in 2006, starting 10 of 13 games on the way to earning Freshman All-American honors. He led the team with 45 receptions and set the school freshman single-season record with 694 yards receiving (15.4 avg), scoring five times.
Despite constant double coverage, Heyward-Bey again led the team with 51 receptions for 786 yards (15.4 avg) and three touchdowns as a sophomore. He was an All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention, as he ranked ninth in the league with an average of 60.5 yards per game receiving. He also tallied 107 yards with a score on just five carries (21.4 avg). His 51 catches placed 10th on the school's single-season record list.
Heyward-Bey was again named All-ACC honorable mention in 2008. The team's continued struggles at quarterback saw the junior receiver be used more often out of the backfield as a runner. For the third consecutive season, he led the Terps with 41 catches for 609 yards (14.5 avg) that included five touchdowns. He carried 13 times, totaling 202 yards with a score, averaging 13.5 yards per rushing attempt and 14.23 yards each time he touched the ball.
After his junior campaign, Heyward-Bey decided it was time to join the NFL ranks, forgoing his senior season to enter the 2009 draft. "After the bowl game I sat down with my mom, my aunt and coach (Ralph) Friedgen to explore my options and felt like the time is right to take my game to the next level," Heyward-Bey said.
"It was a very difficult decision. I love the University of Maryland and everything people have done for me the last four years. Not only the coaches, but also the players and support staff. It was a great experience. I want to thank the student body, the fans and Coach Friedgen for their support and allowing me this opportunity. I look forward to always being a Terp."
Scouting Report
GENERAL REPORT: GRADE: 6.34
Body Structure: Heyward-Bey has good upper body development, with tapered calves. He has good arm length, decent-sized hands, tight waist and hips and good upper body muscle tone, along with a frame that can carry at least another 10 pounds of bulk without having it impact his exceptional straight-line speed.
Athletic Ability: Heyward-Bey has exceptional speed to get downfield, showing good body flexibility, balance and body control to adjust to the ball in flight. He capitalizes on using his rare speed and timing to make proper adjustments to get into position to make the catch without having to break stride. He is very effective at eluding defenders when working in space and he has the leaping ability to compete for the ball in the air (needs to do a better job of timing those leaps though). He has smooth hip snap, showing shifty moves on long routes (less in shorter routes). His body control through his routes lets him extend for the off-target throws. GRADE: 8.0
Football Sense: Heyward-Bey lacks the natural instincts and feel on the field and tends to lose his focus quite a bit, especially when not involved in the play. He is not a physical receiver, despite his size and needs to show more courage going for the ball in a crowd. There are times where he just lacks alertness to coverages, running right into traffic. He needs a few reps before he can retain plays and needs to do a much better job of showing that he has the ability to adjust to the defense. He is quick to come back for the ball, but must do a better job of adjusting his routes when the quarterback is pressured. GRADE: 5.3
Character: Heyward-Bey is a likeable player who is maturing off the field. He has no known stability issues and gets along well with his teammates and staff. He was raised by his mother and has worked hard to transform into a football player, making great strides since the coaches told him that he might want to look for a "different line of work" during his first season at the university. GRADE: 6.8
Competitiveness: Heyward-Bey lacks the strength to defeat a strong jam and is the type who shies away from going over the middle for the ball. He has very good timing and extension to compete for the pass at its high point, but is the type who will flinch going for the ball in a crowd. He also is a liability as a blocker, lacking the desire or punch to face up to his opponent. The staff says he is a good competitor, but he needs to show better urgency getting underneath the throws. GRADE: 5.6
Work Habits: Heyward-Bey has good football character and takes pride in his work ethic, but he needs to dedicate more hours in the weight room to improve his overall strength. He takes a passive approach to blocking and must become more aggressive competing for the ball in a crowd. He is coachable and not the type who needs to be pushed, but must put in more hours in the training room, as his lack of strength could become an issue at the next level. GRADE: 6.0
ATHLETIC REPORT: GRADE: 6.78
Release: Heyward-Bey needs a clean release to explode off the line, as he lacks the strength to power through the jam. However, he has that suddenness and lateral speed to avoid defenders on the move. His straight-line explosion will generally see him rock the cornerback back on his heels and he is very good at eating up the cushion. He is inconsistent using his hands to beat the jam, but he can suddenly generate a second gear to eat up the defender's cushion. He doesn't have the strength to fight through a powerful jam, but when he is able to avoid it, he gets into his route quickly. He will need to add more strength in order to beat the press at the next level. Still, it is his moves off the ball that gets him most of his success in moving up the field. GRADE: 7.3
Acceleration: Heyward-Bey has the size and vertical jump to go up and make the catch over the middle, but you sometimes wonder if he has the toughness to take a pounding there. He has the size to shield the ball from defenders, but prefers to run down the sidelines rather than get involved in action in a crowd. With his rare speed, he is most comfortable separating from defenders on deep routes. With his explosion, he can easily get under the deep throws and has shown improvement tracking the ball in flight, but did fail to get to 41.7 percent of the balls thrown to him in 2008. He is better when using his long stride and vertical speed to stretch the field. It is evident that he has natural ball skills to adjust to the ball in flight and play it deep. He builds to top speed nicely, but does show some wasted motions, as he takes long strides that cause him to struggle in attempts to get consistent separation out of his cuts working in the short area or in traffic. He can run a lethargic defender off the line of scrimmage, but needs to play the ball with better adjustment skills. GRADE: 7.4
Quickness: Heyward-Bey is a long strider with exceptional quickness off the line, showing the ability to eat up a defender's cushion. He shows explosive acceleration throughout his route, but would be better served if he can develop an array of moves to set up the defender. He has fluid hips to sink and settle under the throws, and if given space to operate he will suddenly break free and take the ball to the house. He looks sudden coming off the line when he gets a clean release and has world class speed that forces the defense to account for him on every deep pattern. GRADE: 8.8
Route Running: Heyward-Bey seems to be better on linear routes, as he can build his acceleration and make cuts to separate. On short routes, he needs to improve, as like most tall receivers he struggles to drop his weight and gain separation. He also needs to show better courage competing for the ball in a crowd. He will round upfield routes, but has the body control to adjust and get under the thrown ball without having to break stride. He also must do a better job of coming out of his breaks cleanly (takes soft angles too much). He has the long arms and hands to get a good push off the defender, but for some reason he will slow down and chop on his inside routes. GRADE: 5.4
Separation Ability: Heyward-Bey has the explosive speed and sudden burst to get deep and threaten, but needs to be more crisp adjusting on underneath routes. He needs to do a better job of generating contact to get the cornerback out of position, but he has that second gear to easily separate in the open field. Because of his world class speed, defenders must give him a big cushion on deep patterns. His problem on long routes occur when he drifts, as he rounds his cuts often and gets too reliant on his speed to gain separation. He has some awareness to uncover, but needs to work at staying lower in his pads to cut more effectively working in the short areas. He has the size to shade defenders and a valid second gear to separate in the deep zone, but must be more precise in and out of his breaks. GRADE: 6.5
Ball Concentration: Heyward-Bey is not a fearless receiver, showing too much inconsistency battling for balls in a crowd. Working over the middle, he tends to hear defenders' feet and will give marginal effort, short arming rather than extending for the ball (does not like contact). He needs to develop a better feel for the ball in flight. He shows the ability to adjust and get in position to snatch the long ball over his outside shoulder without having to throttle down. He is also effective at working the sidelines and keeping his feet in bounds. Going over the middle, he looks affected by close coverage too much and seems to be too aware of traffic. He does a much better job of adjusting to deep coverage and getting open to settle on deep throws than he can going over the middle. GRADE: 5.6
Ball Adjustment: Heyward-Bey has outstanding quickness to settle under the deep throws, but does not do an efficient job on underneath throws. He tends to look to run before properly catching the ball, resulting in him failing to get to more than 40 percent of the balls targeted to him in 2008. He has the natural hands to extend outside his frame or look the ball in, but double clutches the ball often. He just feels more comfortable tracking down the deep ball, where he likes to get to the pass over his outside shoulder. He has loose hips, but working underneath he will struggle some to sink his pads. Still, he flashes enough flexibility to adjust to the off-target passes. GRADE: 6.3
Leaping Ability: Heyward-Bey has excellent leaping ability and the long arms to catch the ball at its high point, but despite a 38.5-inch vertical jump he lacks great timing, failing to get to as many balls at their high point as you would expect. He seemed to have his timing off quite a bit in 2008, as he was either effected by working in closed quarters or just did not compete for the jump ball. The coaches stated the problem was due to poor quarterbacking, but without a desire to go for the ball in a crowd, it could just be a mental aspect that he needs to overcome. GRADE: 6.4
Hands: Heyward-Bey has excellent hands to look the ball in, but needs to do a better job of maintaining focus. He is conscious of ball security, fumbling just once on 163 career touches. He catches most of the deep throws when he gets separation and settles under, but lacks aggression to extend for the ball in a crowd. He drops too many balls, but it is more due to concentration issues than hand problems. GRADE: 7.4
Run After the Catch: Heyward-Bey has enough elusive moves to take a short crossing pass for a long distance, but needs to have room to operate in order to be successful, as he does not like working in a crowd. He is more the type of runner who uses his burst to make defenders miss rather than one who will power through and break tackles. He runs with good knee bend and flexibility, doing a nice job of changing direction without having to gather or throttle down. He has to be more creative in his moves to compensate for some hesitation going for the ball in tight areas, but shows the vision to make the big play if he finds the crease. He runs with good urgency, but would be even more effective if he uses his hands to break arm tackles. GRADE: 8.2
Blocking Ability: In the second level, Heyward-Bey is adequate at taking angles and executing the crack block. But, at the line of scrimmage, due to a lack of strength and urgency he will just pester and mirror when blocking in-line. It is rare to see him face up working in the trenches, as he lacks the violent hand punch to stalk and shock. GRADE: 5.3
Compares To: ASHLEY LELIE, Oakland -- Heyward-Bey has exceptional quickness, but there is a lot of inconsistency in his play. Yes, he is a dangerous deep threat, but you have to question his courage going for the ball in traffic. He has natural hands, but tends to hear the feet of defenders too much, double-clutching too often when working in tight areas. He became the Combine darling, but appears to be more of an athlete than football player. Those types are more bust than boom, but look for him to be drafted much earlier based on his athleticism than production.
OVERALL GRADE: 6.71
--Report by Dave-Te' Thomas
Career Notes
Heyward-Bey's 138 receptions rank third in school history behind Jermaine Lewis (193, 1992-95) and Geroy Simon (185, 1993-96) … His 2,089 yards receiving marked just the third time a Terrapin gained more than 2,000 yards in a career, joining Lewis (2,932 yards) and Simon (2,059) … Hauled in 13 of those passes for touchdowns, tying Guilian Gary (1998-2001) for third on the school all-time record list, topped by Lewis (21) and Greg Hill (18, 1982-84) … Caught 51 passes as a sophomore (2007), tying Vernon Davis (2005), Allen Williams (1994) and Greg Hill (1984) for 10th on the Terps' single-season record list … His 786 yards gained receiving in 2007 rank seventh and his 694 yards in 2006 rank ninth on the school single-season record list … His 2006 yardage total of 694 yards also established a new freshman single-season record … Caught 11 passes vs. Wake Forest in 2006, tying Lewis (vs. North Carolina State, 1995), Williams (vs. Syracuse, 1994), Simon (vs. West Virginia, 1994), Marcus Badgett (vs. both Wake Forest and Pittsburgh, 1992) and John Tice (vs. Clemson, 1982) for sixth on the Maryland single-game record chart … His 96-yard touchdown reception vs. Miami in 2006 was the longest reception by an NCAA player that year and set a school record, topping the previous long grab of 80 yards by Danny Melendez vs. North Carolina in 2005 … Among active Atlantic Coast Conference players, Heyward-Bey's 138 receptions rank sixth, while his 2,089 yards receiving and 15.14-yards per catch average both rank fifth.
2008 Season
All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention … Super Sleeper Team choice by The NFL Draft Report … Started twelve games at the "Z" receiver position, leading the team for the third consecutive year with 42 receptions for 609 yards (14.5 avg) and five touchdowns … Had seven of the 72 passes targeted to him deflected by the opposition, as he converted 8-of-15 third-down throws and registered 26 first downs receiving, including 20 receptions for at least 10 yards each (with ten for 20 yards or longer) … Fumbled for the only time during his career in his final game as a Terp, vs. Nevada in the Humanitarian Bowl … Had key catches that set up eight touchdown drives and one series that ended with a field goal … Finished fourth on the team with 202 yards and a touchdown on only fifteen carries, as his average of 13.5 yards per rushing attempt was tops in the ACC … Also recorded a solo tackle vs. Middle Tennessee State … Ranked ninth in the league in receiving yardage (50.75 ypg) and tenth in receptions (3.5 pg) … .Also placed 20th in the conference with an average of 67.58 all-purpose yards per game.
2008 Game Analysis
Delaware … Maryland's dual-threat wide receiver, Darrius Heyward-Bey, provided offensive firepower both on the ground and through the air, gaining 70 yards on four receptions and adding 20 yards and a touchdown on two carries … Midway through the second quarter, Heyward-Bey put Maryland on top, 7-0, on a 12-yard touchdown run around right end, a play that was set up by the receiver's 36-yard reception on the previous play. Heyward-Bey accounted for all of Maryland's 48 yards on the 2-play drive … Said Heyward-Bey of the touchdown play: "Cory Jackson made a great block and then I had to jump over him. We got in the end zone and it was a big score for us" … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's 100 catches tie him for ninth place (Marcus Badgett, 1989-92; Frank Russell, 1972-74) on Maryland's all-time receptions list … Heyward-Bey becomes only the 11th player in Maryland history with 100 catches … With 1,550 receiving yards, Heyward-Bey ranks ninth on Maryland's all-time receiving-yardage list, just two yards from eighth place (Guilian Gary, 1998-2001) … Head-to-Head Competition: CB#24-Fred Andrew (5:10-185)-Five tackles (3 solos) … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-1 third-down plays and had two receptions for 20 yards or longer.
Middle Tennessee State … Heyward-Bey took a short pass from quarterback Chris Turner at the end of the third quarter and turned it into an 80-yard touchdown reception, the second-longest reception of Heyward-Bey's career, trailing only his own 96-yard catch vs. Miami in 2006 … The Terrapin wideout finished the game with 90 yards and one touchdown on three catches … The Maryland receiver has caught at least one pass in 26 of the his last 27 games … Record Watch-With 1,640 career receiving yards, Heyward-Bey passed Guilian Gary (1998-2001) to move into eighth place on Maryland's all-time receiving yards list, trailing Ferrell Edmunds (1984-87) and seventh place by just one receiving yard … Heyward-Bey, whose three catches gave him 103 for his career, also passed Edmunds for eighth place on Maryland's all-time receptions list … Head-to-Head Competition: CB#25-Ted Riley (6:00-180)-One interception … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 1-of-2 third-down plays and had one reception for 20 yards or longer.
California … Maryland's playmaking wide receiver, Darrius Heyward-Bey, put up modest numbers vs. Cal, finishing the game with 59 yards and one touchdown on two catches and adding one rush for 9 yards … Heyward-Bey's sole rush of the afternoon proved effective, as the 9-yard red-zone jaunt helped set up a 1-yard touchdown run by tailback Da'Rel Scott, increasing Maryland's lead to 14-0 with 8:41 left in the first quarter … He converted a 3rd-&-16 with a 32-yard reception in the second quarter, but the drive was stalled by a fumble by receiver Torrey Smith … Heyward-Bey increased the Terrapins' lead to 28-6 with a 27-yard touchdown reception thrown by quarterback Chris Turner in the third quarter … Heyward-Bey has caught at least one pass in 27 of Maryland's last 28 games … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's 59 receiving yards increased his career yardage to 1,699, moving him past Ferrell Edmunds (1984-87) and into seventh place in Maryland history and leaving him just 22 receiving yards shy of Barry Johnson (1987-1990) and Greg Hill (1982-84), who share fifth place … Heyward-Bey's third-quarter touchdown gave him 10 for his career, tying him with six other former Terrapins for seventh place on Maryland's all-time receiving touchdowns list … Head-to-Head Comeption-CB#5-Syd'Quan Thompson (5:09-187)-Six tackles (5 solos), one sack for a 9-yard loss, and one pass deflection … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 2-of-2 third-down plays and had two receptions for 20 yards or longer.
Eastern Michigan … Although Heyward-Bey picked up most of his yardage on the ground, his lone touchdown of the game came through the air … The Maryland wide receiver finished the game with 81 yards on two rushes and added 31 yards and one touchdown on three catches … Heyward-Bey ran 35 yards on an end-around in the first quarter, a play that helped to set up tailback Morgan Green's 1-yard touchdown, which capped a 10-play, 80-yard drive and increased Maryland's lead to 10-0 … At the 4:57 mark in the second quarter, Maryland's offensive needed only one play to increase it's lead to 24-7, as quarterback Chris Turner threw a 32-yard touchdown toss to Heyward-Bey … On the first play of the second half, Heyward-Bey took a handoff and ran 46 yards to set up Turner's 4-yard touchdown toss to tight end Dan Gronkowski … Midway through the fourth quarter, he lateraled to wide receiver Danny Oquendo, who tossed a 43-yard touchdown pass to wideout Isaiah Williams, increasing Maryland's lead to 44-24 … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced one first-down catch, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had one reception for 20 yards or longer.
Clemson … Although Heyward-Bey was unable to produce a single catch vs. the Clemson defense, the wide receiver did some damage on the ground, taking a third-quarter reverse 76 yards to set up quarterback Chris Turner's 6-yard touchdown toss to wideout Torrey Smith. The 76-yard run was a career long for Heyward-Bey and the longest run surrendered by a Clemson defense in eight years … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced no first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-1 third-down plays and had no receptions for 20 yards or longer.
Virginia … The Virginia defense held Heyward-Bey in check all game, limiting the talented wide receiver to only 17 rushing yards and no receptions … Heyward-Bey's 17-yard run came on the last play of the first half, when quarterback Chris Turner completed a pass to wide receiver Isaiah Williams, who then shoveled the ball to a streaking Heyward-Bey for 17 yards, followed by Heyward-Bey's lateral pass to running back Da'Rel Scoot, who was forced out of bounds at the Virginia 8-yard line … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced one first-down catch, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had one reception for 20 yards or longer.
Wake Forest … Following two games of moderate success, Heyward-Bey had a breakout performance vs. Wake Forest, finishing the game with 101 yards and one touchdown on a career-high 11 catches and adding one rush for 1 yard … It was the receiver's fourth 100-yard receiving game of his career, and his eight receptions in the first half were also a career high … On the game's opening drive, Heyward-Bey caught three passes for 27 yards, including a 9-yard halfback option pass from tailback Da'Rel Scott that put the Terps in front, 7-0 … In the second quarter, Heyward-Bey helped set up Obi Egekeze's 40-yard by hauling in two first-down receptions, including a 41-yarder that the receiver caught between two defenders and held on to despite juggling the ball … Said quarterback Chris Turner of Heyward-Bey's performance: "We knew coming into the game that we had to get him the ball because he is our biggest playmaker on offense. The defense was playing soft coverage for most of the game because they didn't want to give up the big play, so we took advantage of that" … Record Watch-With 11 receptions, Heyward-Bey is now tied for sixth place on Maryland's single-game receptions list … Heyward-Bey's first-quarter touch-down gave the receiver 12 touchdown for his career, moving him into a tie with Gary Collins (1959-61) for fourth place in Maryland history … His 11 receptions increased his career receptions total to 119, moving him past Guilian Gary (1998-2001) and into fifth place in Maryland history … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced five first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-1 third-down plays and had two receptions for 10 yards or longer, including one for more than 20 yards.
North Carolina State … The Wolfpack defense was able to limit Heyward-Bey to modest gains, as the wide receiver finished the game with just two catches for 28 yards and two rushes for 15 yards … The Maryland receiver has now caught at least one pass in 30 of the his last 33 contests … Heyward-Bey's 17-yard run midway through the first quarter placed the Maryland offense in Wolfpack territory, helping to set up quarterback Chris Turner's 13-yard touchdown toss to tight end Dan Gronkowsi … Turner connected with Heyward-Bey on a 19-yard completion on Maryland's last drive of the game, which moved the Terps' offense to NC State's 35-yard line and helped to set up Obi Egekeze's game-deciding 20-yard field goal … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's two receptions gave him 121 for his career, moving him past Russ Weaver (1992-94) and into fourth place on Maryland's career receptions list … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had one reception for 10 yards or longer.
Virginia Tech … After being held out of the end zone last week vs. NC State, Heyward-Bey scored on a 63-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter, finishing the game with five catches for 92 yards and a touchdown … His lone rush of the game resulted in a 10-yard loss … On a drive that begin with 2:44 left in the first quarter, Heyward-Bey caught passes of 12 and 13 yards, the latter of which set up kicker Obi Egekeze's 41-yard field goal, which reduced Virginia Tech's lead to 7-3 … Midway through the third quarter, Heyward-Bey caught a short slant pass from quarterback Chris Turner on 3rd-&-5 and turned it upfield for a 63-yard touchdown, capping a 6-play, 98-yard drive, the longest by Maryland's offense this season, and trimming the Hokies' lead to 20-10 … The 63-yard score was the eighth gain of 50 yards or more in Heyward-Bey's career … He has now caught at least one pass in 31 of the his last 34 games … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's third-quarter touch-down was the 13th of his career, which moved him into a tie with Gulian Gary (1998-2001) for third place on Maryland's career touchdowns list … With 1,976 career receiving yards, Heyward-Bey passed Azizuddin Abdur-Ra'oof (1984-87) to move into third place in school history. Said Abdur-Ra'oof of being passed by Heyward-Bey: "I'd like to be the first to congratulate Darrius on continuing to move up the receiving chart. I think it's awesome. Records are made to be broken, and I can't think of a better person to pass me." … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced three first-down catches, as he converted 2-of-4 third-down plays and had three receptions for 10 yards or longer, including one for more than 20 yards.
North Carolina … Heyward-Bey's big-play productivity was shut down by a Tar Heel defense that held the Maryland receiver to just 43 yards on five catches and 5 yards on two carries … Heyward-Bey has now caught at least one pass in 32 of the his last 35 games … On Maryland's second drive of the game, Heyward-Bey hauled in a 15-yard pass from quarterback Chris Turner on a 3rd-&-7 play, keeping alive a drive that culminated in a 3-yard touchdown run by tailback Da'Rel Scott … Record Watch-A 13-yard reception in the third quarter put Heyward-Bey over 2,000 receiving yards for his career, only the third Maryland player to ever achieve that milestone … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced three first-down catches, as he converted 2-of-2 third-down plays and had two receptions for 10 yards or longer.
Florida State … Heyward-Bey, was held out of the end zone for the second-consecutive week, finishing the game with just three receptions for 22 yards and adding two rushes for 11 yards … Heyward-Bey has now caught at least one pass in 33 of his last 36 games, a streak that dates back to 2006 … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's three catches vs. Florida State gave him 134 receptions for his career, tying him with Frank Wycheck for third place in Maryland history … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had two receptions for 10 yards or longer.
Boston College … Did not play due to a leg contusion.
Nevada (Humanitarian Bowl) … After missing the Boston College contest, the last game of the regular season, Heyward-Bey returned for the Humanitarian Bowl and put up modest numbers, catching four passes for 48 yards and losing six yards on his only rush … His biggest plays of the game occurred during a second-quarter drive, when the wide receiver converted a 3rd-&-2 with a 13-yard reception and caught a 21-yard pass from quarterback Chris Turner on the next play … The Maryland wide receiver now has caught at least one pass in 34 of his last 37 games … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's 48-yard performance vs. Nevada gave him 2,089 career receiving yards, moving him past Geroy Simon (1993-96) and into second place in Maryland history … His four receptions gave him 138 catches for his career, giving him sole possession of third place on the Terps' career receptions list …
Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced three first-down catches, as he converted 1-of-2 third-down plays and had three receptions for 20 yards or longer, including one for longer than 20 yards.
2007 Season
All-American honorable mention by Pro Football Weekly … Earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention … Member of the Biletnikoff Award Watch List … Started all thirteen games at the "X" receiver position, one of just three Terrapins to start every contest in 2007 … Paced the team for the second-straight season with a career-high 51 receptions for 786 yards (15.4 avg) and three touch-downs … His 51 catches rank tenth on the school's single-season record chart … Added 107 yards and a score on just five rushing attempts (21.4 avg) and recorded a solo tackle vs. Oregon State … Ranked ninth in the conference with an average of 60.46 yards per game receiving, as he also averaged 68.69 all-purpose yards per game.
2007 Game Analysis
Villanova … Heyward-Bey opened the season with six receptions for 81 yards, coming up with four first-down grabs while adding 13 yards on a reverse.
Wake Forest … Set up a Terps third quarter scoring drive with a 54-yard rushing attempt, as he also had a 12-yard reception.
Rutgers … Hauled down five passes for 51 yards, capping a second quarter 9-play, 55-yard drive with a 15-yard touchdown grab.
Georgia Tech … Went over the century mark for the only time in 2007, totaling 109 yards on four receptions, including a 47-yarder … It marked the third time in his career that Heyward-Bey gained over 100 yards receiving.
North Carolina … Collected 52 yards, as three of his four catches produced first downs.
Boston College … Followed with five receptions for 75 yards and took a reverse 37 yards for a touchdown that concluded a 7-play, 68-yard fourth quarter possession.
Florida State … Credited with 82 yards on five grabs, scoring on a 14-yard flag pass from Chris Turner.
North Carolina State … Matched his season-high with six receptions, good for 47 yards in the season finale.
Oregon State (Emerald Bowl) … Recorded a solo tackle, adding 99 yards on three catches … Capped an 80-yard, 4-play series late in the first quarter by hauling in a 63-yard touchdown bomb from Chris Turner.
2006 Season
Freshman All-American first-team selection by The Sporting News and Rivals.com … All-ACC Freshman team choice, adding second-team All-Conference honors … Appeared in thirteen games, starting ten contests at the "Z" receiver position … Set the school fresh-man single-season record with 694 yards, leading the Terps with 45 receptions (15.4 avg) that included five touchdowns … His average of 3.46 catches per game ranked ninth in the Atlantic Coast Conference and his average of 53.38 yards receiving ranked fifth … His 694 yards receiving also rank ninth on the school's single-season record list and also placed third in ACC annals among freshmen … Recorded a solo tackle vs. Florida International and gained 5 yards on five rushing attempts … Averaged 53.77 all-purpose yards per game … His 96-yard reception vs. Miami was the longest catch in the NCAA in 2006 and set a school record.
2006 Game Analysis
William & Mary … In his collegiate debut, Heyward-Bey managed just one yard on a reverse.
Middle Tennessee State … His first career reception was good for 19 yards.
West Virginia … Follo0wed with a season-high five receptions for 49 yards.
Florida International … In his first career start, the freshman made four catches for 35 yards.
Georgia Tech … Heyward-Bey grabbed five passes for 111 yards, including a 57-yarder on a short toss that he raced down the sidelines with until being tackled at the Tech 6-yard line.
Florida State … The "Z" receiver scored for the first time during his career, as he totaled 57 yards on three grabs that included touchdowns of 15 and 30 yards.
Miami … Set the school record with a 96-yard touchdown catch, adding a 65-yard score in the first quarter to finish with a career-high 175 yards on five receptions.
Purdue (Champs Sports Bowl) … Heyward-Bey concluded his first year with the varsity by snaring four passes for 81 yards, capping a 5-play, 75-yard series with 2:08 left in the first half with a 46-yard touchdown grab.
2005 Season
Redshirted as a freshman.
Injury Report
2006: Sat out the fourth quarter of the Boston College game (11/18) due to a concussion.
2007: Limited in fall camp by an ankle sprain.
2008: Did not play vs. Boston College (11/29) due to a leg contusion.
Agility Tests
Combine: 4.25 in the 40-yard dash … 1.44 10-yard dash … 2.5 20-yard dash … 4.18 20-yard shuttle … 6.8 three-cone drill … 38.5-inch vertical jump … 10'6" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 16 times.
High School
Attended McDonogh (Silver Spring, Md.) High School, playing football for head coach Dominic Damico, earning three letters as he started in each of his final two seasons at both receiver and outside linebacker … Consensus All-State selection … Added Prep Star and Super Prep All-American honors, as Super Prep rated him the 17th-best receiver in the nation. Tom Lemming of ESPN rated him the prep ranks' 23rd-best receiver … Received a four-star rating from Rivals.com, as that recruiting service picked him as the fourth-best prospect in the state of Maryland … Added All-Conference and All-Area accolades as a junior and senior … In his final campaign, he had 47 receptions for 821 yards and 10 touchdowns … The previous season, he made 40 catches for 802 yards and 12 scores … In track, Heyward-Bey received first-team All-American accolades in the indoor 60 meters … Finished fifth at the nationals as a junior as well winning the MIAA championship in the 100 and 200 meters … Timed at 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at the Nike combine at the University of Virginia and ran a 6.35 in the 55-meter dash in January, 2005 … Also posted a 40-inch vertical jump at McDonogh High.
By far the fastest player in school history, Heyward-Bey set the Terps record with a 4.23 clocking in the 40-yard dash during 2006 preseason drills. Always known for his blazing speed, he added a new wrinkle to his game the last two seasons, proving to be a dangerous threat on the reverse or when operating out of the backfield as a slot back.
Even though Maryland struggled at the quarterback position and failed to find another big-play receiver to prevent Heyward-Bey from receiving the constant double coverage he experienced throughout his career, he left his mark in the school record books in only three seasons. Even though he never returned a kick or punt, his 2,403 all-purpose yards rank 17th in school annals.
Heyward-Bey's 138 receptions rank third on Maryland's career record chart. His 2,089 yards receiving placed him second in school annals. He also tied for third on the all-time list with 13 touchdown grabs and is tied for sixth with four 100-yard receiving games. The team's third-leading rusher as a junior, he would amass 314 yards with a pair of scores on 25 carries, averaging 12.56 yards per rushing attempt and 14.74 yards on the 163 times he touched the ball. Proving to be the team's money receiver, he generated 228 receiving yards in three bowl appearances.
At McDonogh High School, Heyward-Bey was a standout in football and track. On the gridiron, he earned three letters, starting in each of his final two seasons at receiver and outside linebacker. The consensus All-State selection added Prep Star and Super Prep All-American honors, as Super Prep rated him the 17th-best receiver in the nation. Tom Lemming of ESPN rated him the prep ranks' 23rd-best receiver.
Heyward-Bey received a four-star rating from Rivals.com, as that recruiting service picked him as the fourth-best prospect in the state of Maryland. He added All-Conference and All-Area accolades as a junior and senior. In his final campaign, he had 47 receptions for 821 yards and 10 touchdowns. The previous season, he made 40 catches for 802 yards and 12 scores.
In track, Heyward-Bey received first-team All-American accolades in the indoor 60 meters. He finished fifth at the nationals as a junior as well winning the MIAA championship in the 100 and 200 meters. He was timed at 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at the Nike combine at the University of Virginia and ran a 6.35 in the 55-meter dash in January 2005. He also posted a 40-inch vertical jump at McDonogh High.
Heyward-Bey bypassed scholarship offers from Boston College, Alabama, Pittsburgh, Virginia and Michigan State to enroll at Maryland in 2005. After red-shirting that year, he made a huge impact in 2006, starting 10 of 13 games on the way to earning Freshman All-American honors. He led the team with 45 receptions and set the school freshman single-season record with 694 yards receiving (15.4 avg), scoring five times.
Despite constant double coverage, Heyward-Bey again led the team with 51 receptions for 786 yards (15.4 avg) and three touchdowns as a sophomore. He was an All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention, as he ranked ninth in the league with an average of 60.5 yards per game receiving. He also tallied 107 yards with a score on just five carries (21.4 avg). His 51 catches placed 10th on the school's single-season record list.
Heyward-Bey was again named All-ACC honorable mention in 2008. The team's continued struggles at quarterback saw the junior receiver be used more often out of the backfield as a runner. For the third consecutive season, he led the Terps with 41 catches for 609 yards (14.5 avg) that included five touchdowns. He carried 13 times, totaling 202 yards with a score, averaging 13.5 yards per rushing attempt and 14.23 yards each time he touched the ball.
After his junior campaign, Heyward-Bey decided it was time to join the NFL ranks, forgoing his senior season to enter the 2009 draft. "After the bowl game I sat down with my mom, my aunt and coach (Ralph) Friedgen to explore my options and felt like the time is right to take my game to the next level," Heyward-Bey said.
"It was a very difficult decision. I love the University of Maryland and everything people have done for me the last four years. Not only the coaches, but also the players and support staff. It was a great experience. I want to thank the student body, the fans and Coach Friedgen for their support and allowing me this opportunity. I look forward to always being a Terp."
Scouting Report
GENERAL REPORT: GRADE: 6.34
Body Structure: Heyward-Bey has good upper body development, with tapered calves. He has good arm length, decent-sized hands, tight waist and hips and good upper body muscle tone, along with a frame that can carry at least another 10 pounds of bulk without having it impact his exceptional straight-line speed.
Athletic Ability: Heyward-Bey has exceptional speed to get downfield, showing good body flexibility, balance and body control to adjust to the ball in flight. He capitalizes on using his rare speed and timing to make proper adjustments to get into position to make the catch without having to break stride. He is very effective at eluding defenders when working in space and he has the leaping ability to compete for the ball in the air (needs to do a better job of timing those leaps though). He has smooth hip snap, showing shifty moves on long routes (less in shorter routes). His body control through his routes lets him extend for the off-target throws. GRADE: 8.0
Football Sense: Heyward-Bey lacks the natural instincts and feel on the field and tends to lose his focus quite a bit, especially when not involved in the play. He is not a physical receiver, despite his size and needs to show more courage going for the ball in a crowd. There are times where he just lacks alertness to coverages, running right into traffic. He needs a few reps before he can retain plays and needs to do a much better job of showing that he has the ability to adjust to the defense. He is quick to come back for the ball, but must do a better job of adjusting his routes when the quarterback is pressured. GRADE: 5.3
Character: Heyward-Bey is a likeable player who is maturing off the field. He has no known stability issues and gets along well with his teammates and staff. He was raised by his mother and has worked hard to transform into a football player, making great strides since the coaches told him that he might want to look for a "different line of work" during his first season at the university. GRADE: 6.8
Competitiveness: Heyward-Bey lacks the strength to defeat a strong jam and is the type who shies away from going over the middle for the ball. He has very good timing and extension to compete for the pass at its high point, but is the type who will flinch going for the ball in a crowd. He also is a liability as a blocker, lacking the desire or punch to face up to his opponent. The staff says he is a good competitor, but he needs to show better urgency getting underneath the throws. GRADE: 5.6
Work Habits: Heyward-Bey has good football character and takes pride in his work ethic, but he needs to dedicate more hours in the weight room to improve his overall strength. He takes a passive approach to blocking and must become more aggressive competing for the ball in a crowd. He is coachable and not the type who needs to be pushed, but must put in more hours in the training room, as his lack of strength could become an issue at the next level. GRADE: 6.0
ATHLETIC REPORT: GRADE: 6.78
Release: Heyward-Bey needs a clean release to explode off the line, as he lacks the strength to power through the jam. However, he has that suddenness and lateral speed to avoid defenders on the move. His straight-line explosion will generally see him rock the cornerback back on his heels and he is very good at eating up the cushion. He is inconsistent using his hands to beat the jam, but he can suddenly generate a second gear to eat up the defender's cushion. He doesn't have the strength to fight through a powerful jam, but when he is able to avoid it, he gets into his route quickly. He will need to add more strength in order to beat the press at the next level. Still, it is his moves off the ball that gets him most of his success in moving up the field. GRADE: 7.3
Acceleration: Heyward-Bey has the size and vertical jump to go up and make the catch over the middle, but you sometimes wonder if he has the toughness to take a pounding there. He has the size to shield the ball from defenders, but prefers to run down the sidelines rather than get involved in action in a crowd. With his rare speed, he is most comfortable separating from defenders on deep routes. With his explosion, he can easily get under the deep throws and has shown improvement tracking the ball in flight, but did fail to get to 41.7 percent of the balls thrown to him in 2008. He is better when using his long stride and vertical speed to stretch the field. It is evident that he has natural ball skills to adjust to the ball in flight and play it deep. He builds to top speed nicely, but does show some wasted motions, as he takes long strides that cause him to struggle in attempts to get consistent separation out of his cuts working in the short area or in traffic. He can run a lethargic defender off the line of scrimmage, but needs to play the ball with better adjustment skills. GRADE: 7.4
Quickness: Heyward-Bey is a long strider with exceptional quickness off the line, showing the ability to eat up a defender's cushion. He shows explosive acceleration throughout his route, but would be better served if he can develop an array of moves to set up the defender. He has fluid hips to sink and settle under the throws, and if given space to operate he will suddenly break free and take the ball to the house. He looks sudden coming off the line when he gets a clean release and has world class speed that forces the defense to account for him on every deep pattern. GRADE: 8.8
Route Running: Heyward-Bey seems to be better on linear routes, as he can build his acceleration and make cuts to separate. On short routes, he needs to improve, as like most tall receivers he struggles to drop his weight and gain separation. He also needs to show better courage competing for the ball in a crowd. He will round upfield routes, but has the body control to adjust and get under the thrown ball without having to break stride. He also must do a better job of coming out of his breaks cleanly (takes soft angles too much). He has the long arms and hands to get a good push off the defender, but for some reason he will slow down and chop on his inside routes. GRADE: 5.4
Separation Ability: Heyward-Bey has the explosive speed and sudden burst to get deep and threaten, but needs to be more crisp adjusting on underneath routes. He needs to do a better job of generating contact to get the cornerback out of position, but he has that second gear to easily separate in the open field. Because of his world class speed, defenders must give him a big cushion on deep patterns. His problem on long routes occur when he drifts, as he rounds his cuts often and gets too reliant on his speed to gain separation. He has some awareness to uncover, but needs to work at staying lower in his pads to cut more effectively working in the short areas. He has the size to shade defenders and a valid second gear to separate in the deep zone, but must be more precise in and out of his breaks. GRADE: 6.5
Ball Concentration: Heyward-Bey is not a fearless receiver, showing too much inconsistency battling for balls in a crowd. Working over the middle, he tends to hear defenders' feet and will give marginal effort, short arming rather than extending for the ball (does not like contact). He needs to develop a better feel for the ball in flight. He shows the ability to adjust and get in position to snatch the long ball over his outside shoulder without having to throttle down. He is also effective at working the sidelines and keeping his feet in bounds. Going over the middle, he looks affected by close coverage too much and seems to be too aware of traffic. He does a much better job of adjusting to deep coverage and getting open to settle on deep throws than he can going over the middle. GRADE: 5.6
Ball Adjustment: Heyward-Bey has outstanding quickness to settle under the deep throws, but does not do an efficient job on underneath throws. He tends to look to run before properly catching the ball, resulting in him failing to get to more than 40 percent of the balls targeted to him in 2008. He has the natural hands to extend outside his frame or look the ball in, but double clutches the ball often. He just feels more comfortable tracking down the deep ball, where he likes to get to the pass over his outside shoulder. He has loose hips, but working underneath he will struggle some to sink his pads. Still, he flashes enough flexibility to adjust to the off-target passes. GRADE: 6.3
Leaping Ability: Heyward-Bey has excellent leaping ability and the long arms to catch the ball at its high point, but despite a 38.5-inch vertical jump he lacks great timing, failing to get to as many balls at their high point as you would expect. He seemed to have his timing off quite a bit in 2008, as he was either effected by working in closed quarters or just did not compete for the jump ball. The coaches stated the problem was due to poor quarterbacking, but without a desire to go for the ball in a crowd, it could just be a mental aspect that he needs to overcome. GRADE: 6.4
Hands: Heyward-Bey has excellent hands to look the ball in, but needs to do a better job of maintaining focus. He is conscious of ball security, fumbling just once on 163 career touches. He catches most of the deep throws when he gets separation and settles under, but lacks aggression to extend for the ball in a crowd. He drops too many balls, but it is more due to concentration issues than hand problems. GRADE: 7.4
Run After the Catch: Heyward-Bey has enough elusive moves to take a short crossing pass for a long distance, but needs to have room to operate in order to be successful, as he does not like working in a crowd. He is more the type of runner who uses his burst to make defenders miss rather than one who will power through and break tackles. He runs with good knee bend and flexibility, doing a nice job of changing direction without having to gather or throttle down. He has to be more creative in his moves to compensate for some hesitation going for the ball in tight areas, but shows the vision to make the big play if he finds the crease. He runs with good urgency, but would be even more effective if he uses his hands to break arm tackles. GRADE: 8.2
Blocking Ability: In the second level, Heyward-Bey is adequate at taking angles and executing the crack block. But, at the line of scrimmage, due to a lack of strength and urgency he will just pester and mirror when blocking in-line. It is rare to see him face up working in the trenches, as he lacks the violent hand punch to stalk and shock. GRADE: 5.3
Compares To: ASHLEY LELIE, Oakland -- Heyward-Bey has exceptional quickness, but there is a lot of inconsistency in his play. Yes, he is a dangerous deep threat, but you have to question his courage going for the ball in traffic. He has natural hands, but tends to hear the feet of defenders too much, double-clutching too often when working in tight areas. He became the Combine darling, but appears to be more of an athlete than football player. Those types are more bust than boom, but look for him to be drafted much earlier based on his athleticism than production.
OVERALL GRADE: 6.71
--Report by Dave-Te' Thomas
Career Notes
Heyward-Bey's 138 receptions rank third in school history behind Jermaine Lewis (193, 1992-95) and Geroy Simon (185, 1993-96) … His 2,089 yards receiving marked just the third time a Terrapin gained more than 2,000 yards in a career, joining Lewis (2,932 yards) and Simon (2,059) … Hauled in 13 of those passes for touchdowns, tying Guilian Gary (1998-2001) for third on the school all-time record list, topped by Lewis (21) and Greg Hill (18, 1982-84) … Caught 51 passes as a sophomore (2007), tying Vernon Davis (2005), Allen Williams (1994) and Greg Hill (1984) for 10th on the Terps' single-season record list … His 786 yards gained receiving in 2007 rank seventh and his 694 yards in 2006 rank ninth on the school single-season record list … His 2006 yardage total of 694 yards also established a new freshman single-season record … Caught 11 passes vs. Wake Forest in 2006, tying Lewis (vs. North Carolina State, 1995), Williams (vs. Syracuse, 1994), Simon (vs. West Virginia, 1994), Marcus Badgett (vs. both Wake Forest and Pittsburgh, 1992) and John Tice (vs. Clemson, 1982) for sixth on the Maryland single-game record chart … His 96-yard touchdown reception vs. Miami in 2006 was the longest reception by an NCAA player that year and set a school record, topping the previous long grab of 80 yards by Danny Melendez vs. North Carolina in 2005 … Among active Atlantic Coast Conference players, Heyward-Bey's 138 receptions rank sixth, while his 2,089 yards receiving and 15.14-yards per catch average both rank fifth.
2008 Season
All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention … Super Sleeper Team choice by The NFL Draft Report … Started twelve games at the "Z" receiver position, leading the team for the third consecutive year with 42 receptions for 609 yards (14.5 avg) and five touchdowns … Had seven of the 72 passes targeted to him deflected by the opposition, as he converted 8-of-15 third-down throws and registered 26 first downs receiving, including 20 receptions for at least 10 yards each (with ten for 20 yards or longer) … Fumbled for the only time during his career in his final game as a Terp, vs. Nevada in the Humanitarian Bowl … Had key catches that set up eight touchdown drives and one series that ended with a field goal … Finished fourth on the team with 202 yards and a touchdown on only fifteen carries, as his average of 13.5 yards per rushing attempt was tops in the ACC … Also recorded a solo tackle vs. Middle Tennessee State … Ranked ninth in the league in receiving yardage (50.75 ypg) and tenth in receptions (3.5 pg) … .Also placed 20th in the conference with an average of 67.58 all-purpose yards per game.
2008 Game Analysis
Delaware … Maryland's dual-threat wide receiver, Darrius Heyward-Bey, provided offensive firepower both on the ground and through the air, gaining 70 yards on four receptions and adding 20 yards and a touchdown on two carries … Midway through the second quarter, Heyward-Bey put Maryland on top, 7-0, on a 12-yard touchdown run around right end, a play that was set up by the receiver's 36-yard reception on the previous play. Heyward-Bey accounted for all of Maryland's 48 yards on the 2-play drive … Said Heyward-Bey of the touchdown play: "Cory Jackson made a great block and then I had to jump over him. We got in the end zone and it was a big score for us" … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's 100 catches tie him for ninth place (Marcus Badgett, 1989-92; Frank Russell, 1972-74) on Maryland's all-time receptions list … Heyward-Bey becomes only the 11th player in Maryland history with 100 catches … With 1,550 receiving yards, Heyward-Bey ranks ninth on Maryland's all-time receiving-yardage list, just two yards from eighth place (Guilian Gary, 1998-2001) … Head-to-Head Competition: CB#24-Fred Andrew (5:10-185)-Five tackles (3 solos) … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-1 third-down plays and had two receptions for 20 yards or longer.
Middle Tennessee State … Heyward-Bey took a short pass from quarterback Chris Turner at the end of the third quarter and turned it into an 80-yard touchdown reception, the second-longest reception of Heyward-Bey's career, trailing only his own 96-yard catch vs. Miami in 2006 … The Terrapin wideout finished the game with 90 yards and one touchdown on three catches … The Maryland receiver has caught at least one pass in 26 of the his last 27 games … Record Watch-With 1,640 career receiving yards, Heyward-Bey passed Guilian Gary (1998-2001) to move into eighth place on Maryland's all-time receiving yards list, trailing Ferrell Edmunds (1984-87) and seventh place by just one receiving yard … Heyward-Bey, whose three catches gave him 103 for his career, also passed Edmunds for eighth place on Maryland's all-time receptions list … Head-to-Head Competition: CB#25-Ted Riley (6:00-180)-One interception … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 1-of-2 third-down plays and had one reception for 20 yards or longer.
California … Maryland's playmaking wide receiver, Darrius Heyward-Bey, put up modest numbers vs. Cal, finishing the game with 59 yards and one touchdown on two catches and adding one rush for 9 yards … Heyward-Bey's sole rush of the afternoon proved effective, as the 9-yard red-zone jaunt helped set up a 1-yard touchdown run by tailback Da'Rel Scott, increasing Maryland's lead to 14-0 with 8:41 left in the first quarter … He converted a 3rd-&-16 with a 32-yard reception in the second quarter, but the drive was stalled by a fumble by receiver Torrey Smith … Heyward-Bey increased the Terrapins' lead to 28-6 with a 27-yard touchdown reception thrown by quarterback Chris Turner in the third quarter … Heyward-Bey has caught at least one pass in 27 of Maryland's last 28 games … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's 59 receiving yards increased his career yardage to 1,699, moving him past Ferrell Edmunds (1984-87) and into seventh place in Maryland history and leaving him just 22 receiving yards shy of Barry Johnson (1987-1990) and Greg Hill (1982-84), who share fifth place … Heyward-Bey's third-quarter touchdown gave him 10 for his career, tying him with six other former Terrapins for seventh place on Maryland's all-time receiving touchdowns list … Head-to-Head Comeption-CB#5-Syd'Quan Thompson (5:09-187)-Six tackles (5 solos), one sack for a 9-yard loss, and one pass deflection … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 2-of-2 third-down plays and had two receptions for 20 yards or longer.
Eastern Michigan … Although Heyward-Bey picked up most of his yardage on the ground, his lone touchdown of the game came through the air … The Maryland wide receiver finished the game with 81 yards on two rushes and added 31 yards and one touchdown on three catches … Heyward-Bey ran 35 yards on an end-around in the first quarter, a play that helped to set up tailback Morgan Green's 1-yard touchdown, which capped a 10-play, 80-yard drive and increased Maryland's lead to 10-0 … At the 4:57 mark in the second quarter, Maryland's offensive needed only one play to increase it's lead to 24-7, as quarterback Chris Turner threw a 32-yard touchdown toss to Heyward-Bey … On the first play of the second half, Heyward-Bey took a handoff and ran 46 yards to set up Turner's 4-yard touchdown toss to tight end Dan Gronkowski … Midway through the fourth quarter, he lateraled to wide receiver Danny Oquendo, who tossed a 43-yard touchdown pass to wideout Isaiah Williams, increasing Maryland's lead to 44-24 … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced one first-down catch, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had one reception for 20 yards or longer.
Clemson … Although Heyward-Bey was unable to produce a single catch vs. the Clemson defense, the wide receiver did some damage on the ground, taking a third-quarter reverse 76 yards to set up quarterback Chris Turner's 6-yard touchdown toss to wideout Torrey Smith. The 76-yard run was a career long for Heyward-Bey and the longest run surrendered by a Clemson defense in eight years … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced no first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-1 third-down plays and had no receptions for 20 yards or longer.
Virginia … The Virginia defense held Heyward-Bey in check all game, limiting the talented wide receiver to only 17 rushing yards and no receptions … Heyward-Bey's 17-yard run came on the last play of the first half, when quarterback Chris Turner completed a pass to wide receiver Isaiah Williams, who then shoveled the ball to a streaking Heyward-Bey for 17 yards, followed by Heyward-Bey's lateral pass to running back Da'Rel Scoot, who was forced out of bounds at the Virginia 8-yard line … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced one first-down catch, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had one reception for 20 yards or longer.
Wake Forest … Following two games of moderate success, Heyward-Bey had a breakout performance vs. Wake Forest, finishing the game with 101 yards and one touchdown on a career-high 11 catches and adding one rush for 1 yard … It was the receiver's fourth 100-yard receiving game of his career, and his eight receptions in the first half were also a career high … On the game's opening drive, Heyward-Bey caught three passes for 27 yards, including a 9-yard halfback option pass from tailback Da'Rel Scott that put the Terps in front, 7-0 … In the second quarter, Heyward-Bey helped set up Obi Egekeze's 40-yard by hauling in two first-down receptions, including a 41-yarder that the receiver caught between two defenders and held on to despite juggling the ball … Said quarterback Chris Turner of Heyward-Bey's performance: "We knew coming into the game that we had to get him the ball because he is our biggest playmaker on offense. The defense was playing soft coverage for most of the game because they didn't want to give up the big play, so we took advantage of that" … Record Watch-With 11 receptions, Heyward-Bey is now tied for sixth place on Maryland's single-game receptions list … Heyward-Bey's first-quarter touch-down gave the receiver 12 touchdown for his career, moving him into a tie with Gary Collins (1959-61) for fourth place in Maryland history … His 11 receptions increased his career receptions total to 119, moving him past Guilian Gary (1998-2001) and into fifth place in Maryland history … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced five first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-1 third-down plays and had two receptions for 10 yards or longer, including one for more than 20 yards.
North Carolina State … The Wolfpack defense was able to limit Heyward-Bey to modest gains, as the wide receiver finished the game with just two catches for 28 yards and two rushes for 15 yards … The Maryland receiver has now caught at least one pass in 30 of the his last 33 contests … Heyward-Bey's 17-yard run midway through the first quarter placed the Maryland offense in Wolfpack territory, helping to set up quarterback Chris Turner's 13-yard touchdown toss to tight end Dan Gronkowsi … Turner connected with Heyward-Bey on a 19-yard completion on Maryland's last drive of the game, which moved the Terps' offense to NC State's 35-yard line and helped to set up Obi Egekeze's game-deciding 20-yard field goal … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's two receptions gave him 121 for his career, moving him past Russ Weaver (1992-94) and into fourth place on Maryland's career receptions list … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had one reception for 10 yards or longer.
Virginia Tech … After being held out of the end zone last week vs. NC State, Heyward-Bey scored on a 63-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter, finishing the game with five catches for 92 yards and a touchdown … His lone rush of the game resulted in a 10-yard loss … On a drive that begin with 2:44 left in the first quarter, Heyward-Bey caught passes of 12 and 13 yards, the latter of which set up kicker Obi Egekeze's 41-yard field goal, which reduced Virginia Tech's lead to 7-3 … Midway through the third quarter, Heyward-Bey caught a short slant pass from quarterback Chris Turner on 3rd-&-5 and turned it upfield for a 63-yard touchdown, capping a 6-play, 98-yard drive, the longest by Maryland's offense this season, and trimming the Hokies' lead to 20-10 … The 63-yard score was the eighth gain of 50 yards or more in Heyward-Bey's career … He has now caught at least one pass in 31 of the his last 34 games … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's third-quarter touch-down was the 13th of his career, which moved him into a tie with Gulian Gary (1998-2001) for third place on Maryland's career touchdowns list … With 1,976 career receiving yards, Heyward-Bey passed Azizuddin Abdur-Ra'oof (1984-87) to move into third place in school history. Said Abdur-Ra'oof of being passed by Heyward-Bey: "I'd like to be the first to congratulate Darrius on continuing to move up the receiving chart. I think it's awesome. Records are made to be broken, and I can't think of a better person to pass me." … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced three first-down catches, as he converted 2-of-4 third-down plays and had three receptions for 10 yards or longer, including one for more than 20 yards.
North Carolina … Heyward-Bey's big-play productivity was shut down by a Tar Heel defense that held the Maryland receiver to just 43 yards on five catches and 5 yards on two carries … Heyward-Bey has now caught at least one pass in 32 of the his last 35 games … On Maryland's second drive of the game, Heyward-Bey hauled in a 15-yard pass from quarterback Chris Turner on a 3rd-&-7 play, keeping alive a drive that culminated in a 3-yard touchdown run by tailback Da'Rel Scott … Record Watch-A 13-yard reception in the third quarter put Heyward-Bey over 2,000 receiving yards for his career, only the third Maryland player to ever achieve that milestone … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced three first-down catches, as he converted 2-of-2 third-down plays and had two receptions for 10 yards or longer.
Florida State … Heyward-Bey, was held out of the end zone for the second-consecutive week, finishing the game with just three receptions for 22 yards and adding two rushes for 11 yards … Heyward-Bey has now caught at least one pass in 33 of his last 36 games, a streak that dates back to 2006 … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's three catches vs. Florida State gave him 134 receptions for his career, tying him with Frank Wycheck for third place in Maryland history … Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced two first-down catches, as he converted 0-of-0 third-down plays and had two receptions for 10 yards or longer.
Boston College … Did not play due to a leg contusion.
Nevada (Humanitarian Bowl) … After missing the Boston College contest, the last game of the regular season, Heyward-Bey returned for the Humanitarian Bowl and put up modest numbers, catching four passes for 48 yards and losing six yards on his only rush … His biggest plays of the game occurred during a second-quarter drive, when the wide receiver converted a 3rd-&-2 with a 13-yard reception and caught a 21-yard pass from quarterback Chris Turner on the next play … The Maryland wide receiver now has caught at least one pass in 34 of his last 37 games … Record Watch-Heyward-Bey's 48-yard performance vs. Nevada gave him 2,089 career receiving yards, moving him past Geroy Simon (1993-96) and into second place in Maryland history … His four receptions gave him 138 catches for his career, giving him sole possession of third place on the Terps' career receptions list …
Offensive Impact: Heyward-Bey produced three first-down catches, as he converted 1-of-2 third-down plays and had three receptions for 20 yards or longer, including one for longer than 20 yards.
2007 Season
All-American honorable mention by Pro Football Weekly … Earned All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention … Member of the Biletnikoff Award Watch List … Started all thirteen games at the "X" receiver position, one of just three Terrapins to start every contest in 2007 … Paced the team for the second-straight season with a career-high 51 receptions for 786 yards (15.4 avg) and three touch-downs … His 51 catches rank tenth on the school's single-season record chart … Added 107 yards and a score on just five rushing attempts (21.4 avg) and recorded a solo tackle vs. Oregon State … Ranked ninth in the conference with an average of 60.46 yards per game receiving, as he also averaged 68.69 all-purpose yards per game.
2007 Game Analysis
Villanova … Heyward-Bey opened the season with six receptions for 81 yards, coming up with four first-down grabs while adding 13 yards on a reverse.
Wake Forest … Set up a Terps third quarter scoring drive with a 54-yard rushing attempt, as he also had a 12-yard reception.
Rutgers … Hauled down five passes for 51 yards, capping a second quarter 9-play, 55-yard drive with a 15-yard touchdown grab.
Georgia Tech … Went over the century mark for the only time in 2007, totaling 109 yards on four receptions, including a 47-yarder … It marked the third time in his career that Heyward-Bey gained over 100 yards receiving.
North Carolina … Collected 52 yards, as three of his four catches produced first downs.
Boston College … Followed with five receptions for 75 yards and took a reverse 37 yards for a touchdown that concluded a 7-play, 68-yard fourth quarter possession.
Florida State … Credited with 82 yards on five grabs, scoring on a 14-yard flag pass from Chris Turner.
North Carolina State … Matched his season-high with six receptions, good for 47 yards in the season finale.
Oregon State (Emerald Bowl) … Recorded a solo tackle, adding 99 yards on three catches … Capped an 80-yard, 4-play series late in the first quarter by hauling in a 63-yard touchdown bomb from Chris Turner.
2006 Season
Freshman All-American first-team selection by The Sporting News and Rivals.com … All-ACC Freshman team choice, adding second-team All-Conference honors … Appeared in thirteen games, starting ten contests at the "Z" receiver position … Set the school fresh-man single-season record with 694 yards, leading the Terps with 45 receptions (15.4 avg) that included five touchdowns … His average of 3.46 catches per game ranked ninth in the Atlantic Coast Conference and his average of 53.38 yards receiving ranked fifth … His 694 yards receiving also rank ninth on the school's single-season record list and also placed third in ACC annals among freshmen … Recorded a solo tackle vs. Florida International and gained 5 yards on five rushing attempts … Averaged 53.77 all-purpose yards per game … His 96-yard reception vs. Miami was the longest catch in the NCAA in 2006 and set a school record.
2006 Game Analysis
William & Mary … In his collegiate debut, Heyward-Bey managed just one yard on a reverse.
Middle Tennessee State … His first career reception was good for 19 yards.
West Virginia … Follo0wed with a season-high five receptions for 49 yards.
Florida International … In his first career start, the freshman made four catches for 35 yards.
Georgia Tech … Heyward-Bey grabbed five passes for 111 yards, including a 57-yarder on a short toss that he raced down the sidelines with until being tackled at the Tech 6-yard line.
Florida State … The "Z" receiver scored for the first time during his career, as he totaled 57 yards on three grabs that included touchdowns of 15 and 30 yards.
Miami … Set the school record with a 96-yard touchdown catch, adding a 65-yard score in the first quarter to finish with a career-high 175 yards on five receptions.
Purdue (Champs Sports Bowl) … Heyward-Bey concluded his first year with the varsity by snaring four passes for 81 yards, capping a 5-play, 75-yard series with 2:08 left in the first half with a 46-yard touchdown grab.
2005 Season
Redshirted as a freshman.
Injury Report
2006: Sat out the fourth quarter of the Boston College game (11/18) due to a concussion.
2007: Limited in fall camp by an ankle sprain.
2008: Did not play vs. Boston College (11/29) due to a leg contusion.
Agility Tests
Combine: 4.25 in the 40-yard dash … 1.44 10-yard dash … 2.5 20-yard dash … 4.18 20-yard shuttle … 6.8 three-cone drill … 38.5-inch vertical jump … 10'6" broad jump … Bench pressed 225 pounds 16 times.
High School
Attended McDonogh (Silver Spring, Md.) High School, playing football for head coach Dominic Damico, earning three letters as he started in each of his final two seasons at both receiver and outside linebacker … Consensus All-State selection … Added Prep Star and Super Prep All-American honors, as Super Prep rated him the 17th-best receiver in the nation. Tom Lemming of ESPN rated him the prep ranks' 23rd-best receiver … Received a four-star rating from Rivals.com, as that recruiting service picked him as the fourth-best prospect in the state of Maryland … Added All-Conference and All-Area accolades as a junior and senior … In his final campaign, he had 47 receptions for 821 yards and 10 touchdowns … The previous season, he made 40 catches for 802 yards and 12 scores … In track, Heyward-Bey received first-team All-American accolades in the indoor 60 meters … Finished fifth at the nationals as a junior as well winning the MIAA championship in the 100 and 200 meters … Timed at 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at the Nike combine at the University of Virginia and ran a 6.35 in the 55-meter dash in January, 2005 … Also posted a 40-inch vertical jump at McDonogh High.
millertyme1
Footballguy
Darrius Heyward-Bey-WR-Raiders May. 9 - 5:33 pm et
Darius Heyward-Bey dropped three passes in a row at one point during practice Saturday.
Cue Mel Kiper! We obviously wouldn't take this news too seriously, but every drop by DHB is going to get extra attention. (He got a scolding from Jeff Garcia) At least Heyward-Bey is running with the first team.
Source: Oakland Tribune
And so the legend begins....
Darius Heyward-Bey dropped three passes in a row at one point during practice Saturday.
Cue Mel Kiper! We obviously wouldn't take this news too seriously, but every drop by DHB is going to get extra attention. (He got a scolding from Jeff Garcia) At least Heyward-Bey is running with the first team.
Source: Oakland Tribune
And so the legend begins....
Gopher State
Footballguy
very
The Troy Williamson, I mean DHB pass catching skills are put on display for everone to see.This guy will be out of the league in three years
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Ketamine Dreams
Footballguy
very
I just bypassed him in a rookie draft. I think this situation has Williamson written all over it and it'll play out in a similar manner.
duaneok66
Footballguy
not a good post . . .
Biabreakable
Footballguy
I like DHB.. a lot. From what I have seen he runs pretty good deep patterns and can make the turn around catch, the fade and he can come back to the QB if needed. He is a sick leaper too. I think he is going to be a very good player.wI was just responding to the idea that getting open is more important than catching the ball. Was talking about Troy Williamson not DHB.
switz
Footballguy
Because when I hear 'DHB' I think of performance enhancing drugs. If anyone's name sounds like a performance enhancing drug, they're bound for trouble.I also avoid all players named richard - you know...
Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
That's very helpful, thanks.
switz
Footballguy
Well, I don't know too much about him as a player, except that if you want him to catch the ball, you need to drill it into his facemask so it sticks there. He's got horrible eye hand coordination, and runs sloppy routes. I am impressed he accomplished what he did in college, despite constant double coverage, but that it more a testimony to his otherworldly speed than having WR skills. I fully expect him to be a failure as a WR1, as he's more fit to be a WR3.So, since I figured everyone else would post that boring stuff, I'd just try to be funny. Sorry the joke didn't work for you...
Yellow Line is Unoffcial
Footballguy
UMMMM..... He Can't Catch
Neither can T.O. but it never kept him from being drafted in leagues.
One
Not Allowed In Mexico
Since I didn't watch a single Maryland game last year, all I know is what I've heard from talking heads and YouTube.
& because I'm a Raiders fan, I'm all about finding some kinda silver lining...
John Hansen - FantasyGuru.com
- Which JaMarcus Russell will show up this season? First half of '08 JaMarcus? or Last 3 games JaMarcus (6TD/2int/626yds) -Will he continue to improve?
- Usage - It's Oakland, who knows how or how often he'll be used.
& because I'm a Raiders fan, I'm all about finding some kinda silver lining...
John Hansen - FantasyGuru.com
Charlie Casserly - NFLN
What I don't like about him fantasy wise?- He's raw and should be a few years before he becomes consistent enough to start in a fantasy league. (Santonio Holmes comes to mind.)
- Which JaMarcus Russell will show up this season? First half of '08 JaMarcus? or Last 3 games JaMarcus (6TD/2int/626yds) -Will he continue to improve?
- Usage - It's Oakland, who knows how or how often he'll be used.
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Hoss_Cartwright
Footballguy
Actually I thought it was funny.switz said:
