Thread: TE/James Casey/ Rice

James Casey, TE
Height:6'3"
Weight:246
College:Rice
Conference:Conference USA
Hometown:Azle, TX
High School:Azle

Projected Round: 2

Top Performer In:
Bench press - 28
Vertical jump - 36"
3-cone drill - 7.00
60-yard shuttle- 11.80

Other:
Broad Jump - 9'3"

Overview

Electing to turn pro after only two seasons with the Owls, Casey is a rare all-around athlete who was a seventh-round pick by the Chicago White Sox out of high school and spent three years in their farm system before retiring from baseball and signing with Rice.

Once with the Owls, it didn't take long for the former quarterback to establish himself as a dominant weapon at various positions, earning consensus Conference USA Freshman accolades and honorable mention all-conference honors from league coaches. Casey lined up at seven different positions in one game in 2007, and has played everything from defensive end to safety to quarterback to wide receiver.

Playing primarily at wide receiver in 2008, Casey was dominant in Rice's spread attack; he finished second in the country with 111 receptions for 1,329 yards and 13 touchdowns. For some, Casey will be characterized as a Matt Jones-like 'tweener. But also like Jones, Casey's unique upside could land him a stunningly high draft selection come April, even if he'll be turning 25 during his rookie season. Had an arm span of 30 5/8 inches and a hand span of 9 1/2 inches at the combine.

Analysis

Positives: Unique all-around athlete capable of contributing in various ways at the next level. Instinctive football player who simply makes plays. Good playing speed, though his actual 40 time is questionable. Good initial burst off the line of scrimmage. Good agility to make defenders miss in the open field. Good toughness. Willing to absorb the hit to gain positive yardage, but more often dishes out punishment. Natural hands for the reception. Good hand-eye coordination. Secure ball-carrier. Mature athlete with professional experience due to his baseball career.

Negatives: Lacks a true role and will be drafted based on athletic potential. Though many scouts view him as a potential tight end prospect, Casey has limited experience in this role and virtually none as a traditional blocker out of the three-point stance. Only two years of D-I experience and operated in a spread system perfectly tailored to his unique skill set. Due to his time playing baseball is older than most rookies (will turn 25 in September).

http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/...e-tab-analysis