Rakim Jarrett-WR-Maryland
Welcome to the rookie profile for Rakim Jarrett. Rakim Jarrett, a former 5-star recruit and standout wide receiver from the University of Maryland, is set to make an impact in the upcoming NFL draft. With exceptional route-running skills and versatility, Jarrett has made a name for himself as a high-IQ player with an impressive ability to gain yards after the catch. Despite concerns about his size and ability to separate on deep routes, his skills in the short-to-intermediate range and his football acumen make him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams.
Measurables
Height: 6′ 0″
Weight: 192 lbs
Age: 22
40-yard dash: 4.44s
3-cone drill: 6.9s
20-yard shuttle: DNP
Vertical Jump: 35.5″
Broad Jump: 10-3
Bench Press: DNP
*age is at the start of player’s rookie year
College Stats
| Receiving | Rushing | Scrimmage | |||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | School | Conf | Class | Pos | G | Rec | Yds | Avg | TD | Att | Yds | Avg | TD | Plays | Yds | Avg | TD |
| 2020 | Maryland | Big Ten | FR | WR | 4 | 17 | 252 | 14.8 | 2 | 1 | 5 | 5.0 | 0 | 18 | 257 | 14.3 | 2 |
| *2021 | Maryland | Big Ten | SO | WR | 13 | 62 | 829 | 13.4 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 0.5 | 0 | 66 | 831 | 12.6 | 5 |
| *2022 | Maryland | Big Ten | SR | WR | 11 | 40 | 471 | 11.8 | 3 | 3 | 15 | 5.0 | 0 | 43 | 486 | 11.3 | 3 |
| Career | Maryland | 119 | 1552 | 13.0 | 10 | 8 | 22 | 2.8 | 0 | 127 | 1574 | 12.4 | 10 | ||||
Notable Headlines
In his collegiate career, Rakim Jarrett has consistently made headlines for his on-field accomplishments and awards. During his sophomore year in 2021, Jarrett led the Terrapins in receiving, racking up 62 catches for 829 yards and 5 touchdowns, which earned him recognition as a Pro Football Focus Honorable Mention All-Big Ten and a spot on the Phil Steele Third Team All-Big Ten. Prior to his college success, Jarrett’s high school achievements included being named the 2019 Washington Post All-Met Offensive Player of the Year, a 2020 Under Armour All-American, and a three-time First Team WCAC selection, showcasing his undeniable talent from an early age.
Scouting Report
Positives
Rakim Jarrett’s game boasts several strengths that make him an attractive prospect in the upcoming draft. One of his most significant assets is his excellent hands, which allow him to make catches in traffic even when going up against taller defenders. He accomplishes this thanks to his vertical leap and toughness. Jarrett’s straight-line speed allows him to stretch the middle of the field, and his elite initial quickness off the line of scrimmage, combined with his violent hands and good balance, makes him a challenge for defenders. He is a coordinated hands catcher with strong hands, and he has an innate sense of timing when it comes to elevating and high-pointing balls. Additionally, Jarrett is a dangerous catch-and-run threat, showcasing creativity, good vision in the open field, and an ability to fight off the line of scrimmage against press coverage.
Negatives
Jarrett has some weaknesses that may affect his draft stock. His smaller stature and limited strength could lead to him being viewed as a slot-only player at the next level, potentially limiting his versatility on the field. His technique of sometimes allowing the ball into his pads and chest, rather than using his hands to secure deep throws, could be an issue that needs to be addressed with further coaching. This is in addition to the fact that while Jarrett is quick, his athletic ability does not seem to allow him to truly create space with speed on vertical routes. Furthermore, his limited arm length restricts his catch radius, making it more challenging for him to secure passes in contested situations (although his hands will make up for that with an accurate QB). His route tree might need time to expand and adapt to the pro game, and this adjustment period could affect his immediate impact on an NFL team. Lastly, although he is a willing blocker, Jarrett’s poor technique and smaller frame limit his effectiveness in that area, which could be a concern for teams that rely heavily on their wide receivers to contribute to the run game.
Pre Draft Analysis
Expected Draft Capital- Round 4/5
Landing Spots
Rakim Jarrett projects as a 4th or 5th round pick in the upcoming NFL draft, largely due to his impressive skill set as a slot receiver and his movement after the catch. A possible landing spot for Jarrett could be the Denver Broncos, who may be looking to add depth and versatility to their wide receiver corps. If selected by the Broncos, Jarrett would have the unique opportunity to be mentored by renowned offensive-minded coach Sean Payton. Under Payton’s tutelage, Jarrett could refine his route tree, improve his blocking technique, and further hone his skills as a pass-catcher. This scenario could provide Jarrett with the ideal environment to grow and maximize his potential, ultimately transforming him into a valuable asset for the Broncos’ offense.
Post Draft Analysis
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - UDFA
Landing Spot
Rakim Jarrett, who joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent, faces a challenging road ahead due to his overlapping abilities with already established receivers, Chris Godwin and Russell Gage. His potential niche on the team is somewhat obscured by their presence, as both Godwin and Gage exhibit similar styles and skill sets that Jarrett brings to the table. Consequently, securing a spot on the final 53-man roster is by no means guaranteed for Jarrett, and he will need to demonstrate exceptional value, versatility, and perhaps a unique attribute during the preseason and training camp to distinguish himself within the Buccaneers’ already stacked receiving corps. It will be a testament to his tenacity and adaptability if he manages to carve out a role for himself on this highly competitive team.
Fantasy Impact
When it comes to fantasy football, Rakim Jarrett’s prospective contribution remains significantly uncertain, if not negligible for the time being. Given the formidable task he faces in establishing himself amidst the Buccaneers’ well-fortified receiving lineup, most fantasy owners would be wise to overlook him in their draft strategies across nearly all formats. His path to securing meaningful playing time is encumbered by the proven productivity of Chris Godwin and Russell Gage, both of whom are expected to dominate the target share. Unless a significant shift in the depth chart or unforeseen circumstances create an opportunity for Jarrett, his fantasy impact for the upcoming season appears minimal. Consequently, it is advisable for fantasy players to focus on more established, reliably productive options when making their selections.
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Author: Rod A, Twitter
Image Credit: Brad Mills – USA TODAY Sports