Weaknesses:
Summary: Sanu was a playmaker the past three seasons at Rutgers. After arriving as a freshman, he was an integral part of the Scarlet Knights’ offense. Sanu ran the ball from a wildcat set along with playing wide receiver in 2009 and 2010. He is a rare commodity as a hard-nosed wide receiver who could have had even better college production if Rutgers had quality quarterback play.
As a junior, Sanu was used as a wide receiver when the team shifted to a more pro-style offense. He showed what he could do with a phenomenal season. Sanu was one of the country’s most productive wideouts with 115 catches for 1,206 yards and seven touchdowns. Of the top wide receivers in the 2012 draft class, only Oklahoma State’s Justin Blackmon had more receptions than Sanu.
Sanu had a disappointing 40 time of 4.67 at the Combine, but improved on that at his Pro Day with a time in the 4.4s. He performed well in the field-receiving drills at both events.
Sanu is a dynamic receiver who does everything well. He has big strong hands and is very reliable. Teams can know that Sanu will go across the middle of the field and make tough catches. He has fantastic body control, which allows him to make highlight-reel catches along the sideline.
Sanu is physical with corners and is a good route-runner. He played at X (split end), Z (flanker) and the slot in college. Sanu uses quickness and route running to get separation from defensive backs. His size allows him to shield off defenders. Sanu should be a reliable NFL receiver to move the chains. He’ll make a big impact on third downs and produce points in the red zone.
Player Comparison: Anquan Boldin. Sanu’s game is reminiscent of Boldin’s. They both are well-put-together receivers who are physical and quick. Both of them are dangerous to pick up yards after the catch. Boldin went in the second round of the 2003 NFL Draft (No. 54). Sanu could go a little bit earlier, and he could have a career similar to Boldin.
NFL Matches: St. Louis, Cleveland, Jacksonville, Carolina, Philadelphia, New York Jets, Cincinnati, Houston, New England, New York Giants
There are a number of teams that could target Sanu in the first couple rounds of the draft. Sanu could sneak into the first round to a playoff team that needs a receiver. The Texans, Patriots and Giants would have to take him on Thursday night because he probably won’t reach their second-round picks.
At the top of the second round, the Rams could take Sanu if they miss out on Justin Blackmon in the first round. If the Browns don’t take Blackmon, they may consider Sanu with their second-rounder. He would be great addition for Jacksonville in the second round. The Panthers could use a young receiver who moves the chains for Cam Newton, and Sanu would be a good fit. The Eagles and Jets both could use some help at receiver.
The Bengals are looking for a complement to A.J. Green, and Sanu would be a perfect fit in Jay Gruden’s offense. In Mohamed Sanu’s interview with WalterFootball.com, he said that he has pre-draft visits with the Giants and Bengals.
RELATED LINKS:
2012 NFL Mock Draft: Charlie’s | Walt’s
2012 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings
2012 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
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