James Hardy Scouting Report

James Hardy is the best receiver you've probably never heard of. Hardy is a hard prospect to judge, because if you live outside of Big Ten country you may never get to see him play. Hardy has put together a solid career to this point. After playing for the Indiana basketball team during his red shirt year, Hardy gave up basketball to focus on becoming a better receiver. In 33 career games, Hardy has piled up 191 catches, 2740 yards, and 36 TDs. The 6'7", 220 lbs. junior averages more than a TD per game, or 12 per year, to go with his 83.0 yards per game average during his collegiate career. NFL scouts will drool over his soft hands and his amazing red zone potential. He has the potential to become a bigger, more athletic Plaxico Burress type weapon for some franchise. Hardy has a 42 inch vertical leap, to go along with his size and reported 4.45 speed. Hardy has proved to be an incredibly consistent target, catching at least one pass in every game he's played in for the Hoosiers. Despite facing double coverage on an almost constant basis, Hardy still finds ways to get open. He did not end his career on a high note, with only 5 catches for 50 yards against Oklahoma State. Scouts may have also noticed his 3 dropped passes in that game. Hardy will need to prove to scouts he can keep from getting pushed around by the more physical corners in the league. He also has some red flags off the field and has been criticized about his practice habits. However, if he runs at (or above) his alleged 40 time and shows the same crisp route running he's displayed this season, Hardy will likely rocket up teams' draft boards.

James Hardy turned a few heads in Indianapolis by running a 4.47 40 yard dash. Hardy also did 18 reps on the bench press at the NFL Combine, showing he has the upper body strength to get off press coverage in the NFL. Hardy has some minor character issues, but a team in need of a number 1 receiver will look his way in the first round.

James Hardy had an impressive pro day in Bloomington. Hardy finally showed off his jumping ability, recording a 37 inch vertical leap. He also looked good in position drills, dropping just two passes all afternoon. Hardy is a first round talent, but could possibly slip to the top of round two because of character issues.