Packers Pick #52 Greg Jennings WR

[Chubbyhubby]

Saw his bio really good WR should start right away!

http://www.nfl.com/draft/profiles/2006/jennings_greg

[outflow]

Saw his bio really good WR should start right away!

I don't agree that he will start as WR, but should expect him returning kicks or punts or both.

[GoPackGo]

I'm not so sure about this pick...Check out the Sporting News bottom line on Greg Jennings...they are obviously not impressed

Bottom line: Jennings was a productive college player who will become a special teams contributor in the NFL. He has enough ability to compete for a subpackage receiver position, but he will have to outwork everyone. He silenced some critics with a big performance against Virginia in '05. With impressive predraft workouts, Jennings could be selected in the beginning of the seventh round.

[motife]

Greg Jennings | Wide Receiver | Western Michigan | 5'11" - 192 lbs.

OVERVIEW
Despite becoming only the eleventh player in NCAA Division 1-A history to gain over 1,000 yards receiving three times in a career, this versatile athlete toiled in relative anonymity throughout his collegiate career. Still, when you look at his production as a Bronco, you can see that he ranks with the nation's elite.

Greg was an All-Big Eight Conference selection during his senior season Kalamazoo Central High School. He earned All-State second-team honors as a junior and was listed eleventh on the Detroit Free Press "Fabulous 50" rankings. Jennings also garnered All-Conference honors in three sports: football, basketball and track. The big-play receiver also competed on the school's 4x100-meter relay team that made it to the state finals.

Jennings redshirted as a freshman in 2001 at Western Michigan. He missed four games in 2002 due to a broken bone in his left ankle. In eight games that year, he caught ten passes for 138 yards, gained 15 yards on a reverse, totaled 58 yards on eight punt returns and 232 yards on eight kickoff returns (29.0 avg).

The 2003 season was Greg's "coming out" party. He earned Southern Football Weekly All- American honors and was a second-team All-Mid American Conference choice. Jennings ranked second on the team with 56 for 1,050 yards (18.8 avg) and fourteen touchdowns, becoming only the second player in school history to gain over 1,000 yards receiving in a season. He added 669 yards on 31 kickoff returns (21.6 avg) and gained 15 yards on four carries. His 1,734 all-purpose yards ranks second on the school season-record list.

The offensive team captain was an All-MAC first-team pick in 2004. He ranked eighth in the country with an average of 99.3 yards per game receiving. He led the team with 74 catches for 1,092 yards (14.8 avg) and eleven touchdowns, the second-best season totals in school annals. Greg also returned 21 punts for 311 yards (14.8 avg) and two scores, adding 12 yards on three carries to generate 1,415 all-purpose yards.

Those two previous seasons would have been more than enough for a career for other players, but the best was yet to come during his 2005 campaign. Greg led the nation with an average of 8.91 catches per game and ranked second with an average of 114.45 yards per game receiving. He set school season-records with 98 receptions for 1,259 yards (12.8 avg) and tied his own 2003 mark with fourteen touchdown grabs. Jennings gained 50 yards on ten carries, 172 yards on 20 punt returns (8.6 avg) and 20 yards on a pair of kick-off returns. He also completed 1-of-3 passes for a 22-yard touchdown.

In 42 games as a Bronco, Greg started 34 times. He established school career-records with 238 catches for 3,539 yards (14.9 avg) and 39 touchdowns. His 3,539 yards rank fourth and his 39 scores rank second on the Mid-American Conference's all-time record chart. He carried 18 times for 92 yards (5.1 avg), returned 49 punts for 541 yards (11.0 avg) and two scores and totaled 921 yards on 41 kickoff returns (22.5 avg). His 5,093 all-purpose yards set a WMU all-time record and ranks eighth in MAC annals.

CAREER NOTES
Greg is only the eleventh player in NCAA Division 1-A history to gain over 1,000 yards receiving three times in a career...His 238 receptions set a school career-record, topping the old mark of 235 grabs by Steven Neal (1997-2000)...His 238 grabs tied Dante Ridgeway of Ball State (2002- 04) for third on the Mid-American Conference all-time record chart behind Josh Davis of Marshall (306, 2001-04) and Darius Watts of Marshall (272, 2000-03)...His 3,539 yards receiving rank second in school history behind Neal's 3,599 and is good for fourth in MAC annals behind Neal, Watts (3,889) and Davis (4,031)...His 39 touchdown catches broke the previous WMU careerrecord of 27 by Neal and is topped only by the 47 scoring grabs by Watts on the conference alltime record books...His 541 yards on 49 punt returns rank fourth in school history...Greg's career total of 5,093 all-purpose yards broke the old school record of 4,609 yards by Robert Sanford (1997-2000) and ranks eighth on the Mid-American Conference career-record list.

2005 SEASON
All-American third-team choice by The NFL Draft Report...All-Mid American Conference firstteam pick...Named team MVP...Led the nation with an average of 8.91 catches per game and ranked second with an average of 114.45 yards receiving per game...Ranked 21st in the NCAA Division 1-A ranks with an average of 136.45 all-purpose yards per game...Set school seasonrecords with 98 receptions for 1,259 yards (12.8 avg) and fourteen touch-downs...His 98 grabs shattered the old WMU record of 77 by Kendrick Mosley in 2003 and rank fourth on the MAC's season-record chart behind Dante Ridgeway of Ball State (105 in 2004), Eugene Baker of Kent State (103 in 1997), Lance Moore of Toledo (103 in 2003) and Cole Magner of Bowling Green (99 in 2003)...His 1,259 yards broke the previous school mark of 1,121 yards by Steve Neal in 1998...It also ranks seventh on the conference's annual record list behind Randy Moss of Marshall (1647 in 1997), Baker (1549 in 1997), Martin Nance of Miami of Ohio (1498 in 2003), Darius Watts of Marshall (1417 in 2001), Ridgeway (1399 in 2004) and Kevin Walter of Eastern Michigan (1368 in 2002)...His four-teen touchdown catches tied his own school record set in 2003 and ranks fifth in MAC annals, topped only by Moss (25 in 1997), Baker (18 in 1997), Watts (18 in 2001) and Charles Sharon of Bowling Green (15 in 2004) ...Carried ten times for 50 yards (5.0 avg), returned 20 punts for 172 yards (8.6 avg) and gained 20 yards on two kickoff returns... Amassed 1,501 all-purpose yards...Of the 141 passes targeted to Greg, he converted 57 into first downs, including eleven on third-down plays and one more on a fourth-down play...Had thirteen catches for 20 yards or longer...Gained over 100 yards receiving in six contests from the flanker position.

2004 SEASON
All-Mid American Conference first-team choice...Named the team's Most Valuable Player and Offensive MVP...Ranked eighth in the nation with an average of 99.3 yards per game receiving, 14th with an average of 6.7 catches per game and 12th with a punt return average of 14.8 yards...Lined up at "X" receiver, leading the team with 74 receptions for 1,092 yards (14.8 avg) and eleven touchdowns...His 74 catches rank third on the school's season-record list, his 1,092 yards rank fourth and his eleven scoring grabs rank third...Joined Steve Neal (1121 in 1998 and 1113 in 1999) as the only players in school history to gain over 1,000 yards receiving twice in a career (Greg accomplished the feat three times)...Gained 311 yards with a pair of scores on 21 punt returns and rushed three times for 12 yards...Amassed 1,415 all-purpose yards, an average of 128.6 yards per game...Had five games with at least 100 yards receiving.

2003 SEASON
Earned Southern Football Weekly All-American honors...All-MAC second-team pick and named WMU Offensive MVP...Set a school season-record for touchdown receptions in a season (fourteen)...Lined up at split end, ranking second on the team with 56 receptions for 1,050 yards (18.8 avg)...His 1,050 yards rank fifth on the school's season-record list... Returned 31 kickoffs for 669 yards (21.6 avg) and gained 15 yards on four carries (3.8 avg)...Had five 100-yard games receiving...His 1,734 all-purpose yards was the second-best season total by a Bronco player, topped only by Shawn Faulkner (1889 in 1983).

2002 SEASON
Played in eight games as a redshirt freshman...Finished with ten receptions for 138 yards (13.8 avg) and also gained 15 yards on a reverse...Returned eight kickoffs for 232 yards (29.0 avg) and eight punts for 58 yards (7.3 avg).

2001 SEASON
Redshirted as a freshman...Received Offensive Stallion of the Year Award for outstanding scout team play.

CAMPUS AGILITY TESTS
4.53 in the 40-yard dash...290-pound bench press...33-inch vertical jump...30 -inch arm length...9 -inch hands...Right-handed.

HIGH SCHOOL
Attended Kalamazoo (Mich.) Central High School, playing football for head coach Bob Kubiak...All-Big Eight Conference selection during his senior season...Earned All-State secondteam honors as a junior and was listed eleventh on the Detroit Free Press "Fabulous 50" rankings...Also garnered All-Conference honors in three sports: football, basketball and track...Competed on the school's 4x100-meter relay team that made it to the state finals.

PERSONAL
Organizational Communications major...Son of Gwendolyn and Greg Jennings...Father is a pastor and mother is a minister...Born 9/21/83 in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

http://media.scout.com/media/player/166969_jennings-greg.jpg

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2006 Scout.com NFL Draft Rankings (full list):
Pos: WR Pos Rank: #6 Pos Rating:

Scout.com Player Evaluation:
STRENGTHS
Competitiveness
Quickness off Line
Route-Running Skills
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
Blocking Ability
Downfield Threat
Durability


Dominant receiver at Western Michigan who will need to continue to improve to get receiving opportunities in the NFL. Great work ethic and sharp route runner who moves well with the ball. Slender frame may cause concern about long-term durability. Not a consistent deep threat.

Biography:
Greg Jennings is one of the most prolific receivers in Western Michigan University football history. He has received numerous awards and selections to various teams. Follwing the 2004 season he was named to the All-MAC First Team. In 2003 he was named to the All-MAC Second Team. He was selected at the Broncos MVP last year and was a team captain for the season. Currently he owns three letters and will be looking to earn his fourth this season. In the Broncos record books you will find Greg's name there several times. Currently he sits in 3rd and 4th place in receiving yards in a season with 1,092 last year and 1,050 in 2003. He is also 3rd in career receiving yards with 2,280 he only needs 1,390 yards to tie Steve Neal (1997-2000) for the most career yards receiving. Greg also sits 2nd in career touchdown receptions with 25 needing just 2 to tie Steve Neal and 3 to set a new record at WMU. Greg owns the top spot and is tied for second with Steve Neal with touchdown catches in a season. In 2003 Greg set the new mark at 14 and tied the old mark of 11 last year. Greg is also tied with Neal and 2 others with touchdown catches in a game with 3. He caught his three in one game against arch rival Central Michigan in 2003. In all purpose yards in a season he sits 2nd behind Shawn Faulkner (1983), Greg had 1,734 yards in 2003 and Faulkner posted 1,889. In a game Greg's 279 all purpose yards against UConn in 2003 moved him into a tie for 3rd with Lovell Coleman (1958), Tony Knox (1996) set the standard against West Virginia with 330 yards. Greg's 93 yard punt return for a touchdown against Northern Illinois last season gave him the 3rd longest punt return in school history. His 31 kickoff returns in 2003 put him 3rd on the all-time list for punt returns in a season. In 2003 he racked up 669 kickoff return yards which put him 4th in school history for yards in a season. Greg started all 11 games last season. He currently owns a 23-game reception streak. He had 5 100-yard receiving games, he owns 11 career 100-yard games, 2 punt returns for touchdowns, back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons making him only the second Bronco ever to achieve that feat. He has touchdown catches in 6 straight games, 5 games of 8 or more catches, he ranked in the NCAA top 25 in 3 categories; 8th with 99.3 receiving yards per game, 12th with 14.8 punter return yards per punt and 14th with an average of 6.7 catches per game. In the MAC he ranked 3rd in receiving yards and punt return average, 6th in receptions, 8th in all-purpose yards and tied for 9th in scoring. His most memorable catch in his career came at arch rival Central Michigan when he made a spectacular one handed grab, reversed his direction and ran to the end zone to complete a 79-yard touchdown pass play. Greg is majoring in Communications.http://media.scout.com/media/college_football/151411_jennings.jpg

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Posted: Sat Apr 29, 2006 5:04 pm Post subject:

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Prospect Profile: Greg Jennings

By: TFY Draft Preview

Date: Mar 17, 2006

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Full Name: Greg Jennings School: Western Michigan Pos: WR

Ht: 5-11 Wt: 197 40: 4.48 Year: 5Sr

Bio: Three-year starter awarded All-Conference honors every season since his sophomore campaign and led the team in receiving each year. Senior totals were 98/1,259/14 after 74/1,092/11 as a junior. Handled both punt and kick returns duties.

Pos: Sure-handed, quick receiver with outstanding work ethic. Fast off the line, sharp running routes and gets separation from opponents. Consistently makes himself an available target and extends to grab the ball away from his frame. Quickly transitions up the field after the catch and elusive handling the ball. Displays soft hands and uses his frame to shield away opponents.

Neg: Needs to improve his blocking. Not a true downfield threat. Has a thin build and does not present himself as a sturdy receiver.

Analysis: Ultra-productive the past three seasons, Jennings is a solid wideout who’s continually improved his game. Offers potential as a No. 3 receiver at the next level.

http://media.scout.com/media/image/17/178648.jpg

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5. Greg Jennings, Western Michigan (5-11 1/8, 197; 4.46)
Jennings had a complete workout at the Combine. He ran two 40s in 4.42 and 4.50. He had a 36½-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-9 long jump, and a 4.16 short shuttle and a 6.68 three-cone drill. He was a three-sports star in high school (football, basketball and track). He redshirted in 2001 after suffering an ankle injury in the opening game and missed the next four games. He did a good job of returning kicks in 2002. He caught 228 passes and 39 TDs over the next three years. He shows good quickness and has very good hands. He had some big games against big schools. He has a good touch and will catch the ball up the middle, but he's not much of a blocker. He looked good at the East-West game. The big question however, is can he do it at the next level. He's most like a No. 2 receiver.

[motife]

2003 was a breakout year for the MAC with several big seasons from rising programs and star players. In the shadow of performances by Northern Illinois, Bowling Green, Ben Roethlisberger and Josh Harris was a great under-the-radar season by Western Michigan receiver Greg Jennings.

Western Michigan has had some good offensive talent over the years and some decent receivers like Steve Neal and Corey Alston, but it never had a frightening game-breaker like Jennings. After destroying the scout team in 2001, he didn't bust out out in his redshirt freshman season only catching ten passes for 138 yards without a touchdown. Part of the problem was an inconsistent running game not allowing much of a passing attack, but the bigger problem was lousy quarterbacking. 2003 was a different story.

The Broncos only won five games in 2003 hurt by more problems with the running game and little to no defense whatsoever, but the passing game wasn't an issue as Chad Munson and Jon Drach each played like seasoned veterans combining for 3,622 yards and 31 touchdowns. Kendrick Mosley had a strong season as the short-to-medium range receiver, while Jennings destroyed teams with his deep play ability averaging 18.8 yards per catch with 14 touchdowns.
Jennings' best game so far was ... against Central Michigan on November 15th of last year. The Chippewa secondary might as well have not been on the field as Drach threw for 348 yards and five touchdowns. Jennings was unstoppable catching eight passes for 204 yards and three touchdowns highlighted by a 94-yard scoring strike in the third quarter. The Broncos won 44-21.

Why you should care about Greg Jennings ... Jennings is a big receiver with tremendous deep speed. It'll take a little while for him to produce like he did last year as Blayne Baggett (or whatever quarterback takes over) takes time to get his feet wet. There's no question the Broncos will be bombing away again, and Jennings should put up more impressive numbers striking from anywhere on the field. MAC teams, along with Illinois, will make stopping Jennings priority one. He's also a dangerous kickoff returner with four games of over 100 return yards.

Positives about Jennings ... At 6-1 and 190 pounds, he's big enough to attract the eye of the NFL scouts, but it's his separation speed on deep plays that'll get everyone excited. Jennings can make the medium range catches even though his specialty is the home run. He was able to produce against some decent teams going for 107 yards and two touchdowns against Michigan State and 164 yards and a score against UConn, but ...

Negatives about Jennings ... ... he can be taken out of games by good pass defenses. Bowling Green, Northern Illinois, Marshall and Toledo all but shut him down. He wasn't necessarily inconsistent in 2003, but he needs to prove he can produce for two years in a row. Was he a great player that made the Bronco offense strong, or was he the beneficiary of senior quarterbacks that knew what they were doing?

Cool things about Jennings that you probably didn't know ... He was an all-conference high school performer in football, basketball and track at Kalamazoo Central. ... Jennings was an all-star track star.

Career statistics
2003: 56 catches for 1,050 yards and 14 touchdowns. 31 kickoff returns for 669 yards
2002: 10 catches for 138 yards. 8 kickoff returns for 232 yards

[BF4MVP]

Greg Jennings seems like a "Packer Person"

[motife]

Greg Jennings
WR, Western Michigan

War Room analysis
Strengths: Is a productive receiver and punt returner. Has deceptive speed; does not get caught from behind. Runs crisp routes; gets in and out of cuts without gearing down. Shows good vision and recognition skills and makes tacklers miss in the open field.

Weaknesses: Lacks elite physical qualities. Shows below-average size and strength. Hasn't faced much elite competition. Will struggle to combat jams by physical NFL cornerbacks and lacks the speed to separate on downfield routes. Unlikely to transfer punt return skills to the next level.

Bottom line: Jennings was a productive college player who will become a special teams contributor in the NFL. He has enough ability to compete for a subpackage receiver position, but he will have to outwork everyone. He silenced some critics with a big performance against Virginia in '05. With impressive predraft workouts, Jennings could be selected in the beginning of the seventh round.

Dan Pompei analysis
Gifted, has deep ball ability. Speed/size ratio is excellent. Is a fluid athlete with good play strength. Has the body control and discipline to run excellent routes. Gets yards after the catch. Hands are dependable. Has excellent intangibles. Was very productive, but level of competition must be factored into the equation. Stock is up.
No. 5 on Pompei's WR rankings

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Strengths:
Was extremely productive throughout his career...Runs excellent routes...Has great hands and good ball skills...Is not afraid to go across the middle...Can create after the catch and came through with a lot of big plays...Has some special teams potential...Smart and a hard worker...Tremendous character & intangibles.

Weaknesses:
Has only average size and a frail frame...Lacks elite timed speed and is more quick than fast...Is not much of a deep threat and won't stretch the field...Will struggle with physical corners and needs to get stronger...Is not much of a blocker due to his size...Didn't play top competition on a weekly basis...Upside?

Notes:
The type who doesn't have all the physical tools you look for but at a certain point you can't ignore the production...Not the prospect his press clippings would lead you to believe...Could make his mark as a #3 or possession receiver in the pros.

[motife]

Greg Jennings
WR | (5'11", 197, 4.46) | WESTERN MICHIGAN

Scouts Grade: 80
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Career Totals Receiving Rushing
SEASON REC YDS AVG TD ATT YDS AVG TD
2005 98 1259 12.8 14 10 50 5.0 0
2004 74 1092 14.8 11 3 12 4.0 0
2003 56 1050 18.8 14 4 15 3.8 0
2002 10 138 13.8 0 1 15 15.0 0
· View full player card
Strengths: He has dominated his level of play as a go-to-receiver and punt return specialist. He is quicker than fast but also possesses good top-end speed. Shows a little bit of a second gear when he hits daylight. He shows excellent body control, balance and COD skills. Is a sharp route runner who gets in and out of his breaks very quickly. Knows how to separate and also has a very good feel for finding soft spots in zone. He's a threat after the catch. Shows some "wiggle" in space and will make defenders miss. Also has very good vision as a runner and will make the right cut at the right time.

Weaknesses: Lack of ideal NFL "measurables" will cost him on draft day. He has below-average height and bulk. He lacks ideal strength. He doesn't show the leaping ability or size to make many plays vertically in the passing game at the NFL level. He will have more trouble getting off the LOS and will get pushed around by bigger DB's. He also must prove that he has the speed and elusiveness to transfer his punt return production to the NFL.

Overall: Jennings is a three-year starter who also contributed as a true freshman at Western Michigan in 2002 but missed four games that season with a broken ankle. In three seasons prior to his senior year in 2005, Jennings notched 2,280 career receiving yards and 25 touchdowns. As a junior in 2004, Jennings finished with 74 receptions for 1,092 yards and 11 TDs. Jennings also averaged an impressive 14.8 yards per punt return, including two scores. Jennings was one of the most productive wide receivers in the nation as a senior in 2005 when he finished with 1,259 yards and 14 TDs on 98 receptions. Jennings doesn't fit the ideal mold for an NFL receiver and he did not play against top DI-A competition -- for the most part -- while playing at Western Michigan. However, Jennings has enough size, speed and quickness to develop into a No. 2 or No. 3 receiver in the NFL. He has exceptional instincts as a receiver and he is a tough competitor. Helping to ease doubts about his ability to play at the next level was Jennings' 16-catch performance versus Virginia as a senior in 2005. Jennings also is a fine special team's player who has shown a lot of upside as a punt return specialist. After a strong showing in the post-season (E-W Shrine game and combine), Jennings is fast-rising and could come off the 2006 draft board as early as the third round.

[motife]

Greg Jennings

Strengths:
Was extremely productive throughout his career...Runs excellent routes...Has great hands and good ball skills...Is not afraid to go across the middle...Can create after the catch and came through with a lot of big plays...Has some special teams potential...Smart and a hard worker...Tremendous character & intangibles.

Weaknesses:
Has only average size and a frail frame...Lacks elite timed speed and is more quick than fast...Is not much of a deep threat and won't stretch the field...Will struggle with physical corners and needs to get stronger...Is not much of a blocker due to his size...Didn't play top competition on a weekly basis...Upside?

Notes:
The type who doesn't have all the physical tools you look for but at a certain point you can't ignore the production...Not the prospect his press clippings would lead you to believe...Could make his mark as a #3 or possession receiver in the pros.

[motife]

Greg Jennings
Height: 5-11
Weight: 196
40 Speed: 4.54*
Position: Wide Receiver
College: Western Michigan
Final Grade: I 6.3 PR


GM JR Scouting LLC Grading Scale/Key



SUMMARY
Jennings is a player that is impressive. He is one of the few players at the position with no glaring weaknesses. He is a very good athlete with the foot quickness, balance and agility to make plays once he has the ball in his hands. While he lacks elite explosiveness and speed, Jennings runs sharp routes and has the ability to turn the cornerback around. This enables him to get better separation than most receivers who have better timed speed. While he is going to make a lot of big plays in the NFL, Jennings will get caught from behind more than he is used to. He runs hard with the ball and fights for extra yards until he is on the ground, and does a good job of blocking his man out of the play. Overall, Jennings is the type of receiver who usually ends up slipping a bit in the draft because he lacks the great height or elite 40-yard dash time that teams usually focus on. However, his athleticism will combine with his football intelligence and instincts to let him contribute sooner than nearly all the other receivers available this year. In the end, he will become a very good starting receiver that will make big plays when running after the catch and as a punt returner.

CRITICAL FACTORS
Size Athletic Ability Hands Competes Play Speed Instincts
6.0 6.5 6.5 6.0 6.0 6.5



STRONG POINTS
Jennings is a very good athlete with the foot quickness, agility and explosiveness to make big plays in the open field. He makes his biggest impact by making things happen after the catch. He is a very smart receiver that runs very sharp routes -- sells fakes very well and can get the cornerback to bite and turn the wrong way. When he can get the cornerback turned, Jennings has the burst to get separation deep down the field. He has very good hands and has shown the ability to pluck the ball away from defenders' hands at nearly full speed.



WEAKNESSES
Jennings will take his eyes off the ball at times and start upfield before tucking the ball away, which leads to him dropping some easy passes. He has a very good burst in routes and after the catch, but lacks the elite explosiveness and top-end speed -- fast NFL cornerbacks will be able to stay with him on deep routes. He looks smaller on film than his measured size, and while he can keep feet against hits and runs through arm tackles, he is not a tackle breaker.



POSITIONAL FACTORS
Grade Category Comments/Description
6.5 Hands Has very good hands -- can pluck the ball away from body well and can adjust to make great catches.
6.0 Initial Quickness Consistently gets off the ball and into the route quickly, but does not explode off the ball.
6.0 Clean Release Does a good job of getting off the ball and into the route quickly when he is uncovered by a cornerback.
6.0 Release vs. Jam His combination of quick feet, agility, strength and quick hands help him defeat the jam.
6.5 Patterns Runs very sharp and precise routes, and does a very good job of selling fakes to turn cornerbacks around.
6.5 Adjusts to Ball His hands, body control and coordination help him to adjust and make great catches seem routine.
6.5 Run after Catch He is an explosive runner after the catch who can make tacklers miss and has a burst through holes.
6.5 Deep Threat Has good speed, and his sharp routes and burst out of cuts help him easily get separation deep.
6.5 Hand/Eye Coordination Coordination allows him to make the super sharp cut without losing his footing.
6.0 Blocking Gives a good effort and nearly always stays on block long enough to eliminate his man from the play.
6.0 Return Ability His hands, quickness, elusiveness and burst make him a dangerous return man -- has experience at punt returner.
6.0 Fumbles/Error Not a fumbler and does not make any real errors, but needs to make all the easy catches every time.



ATHLETIC ABILITY Section Grade: 6.5
Jennings is a very good athlete and it has allowed him to be a dominant receiver in the MAC. His very quick feet enable him to accelerate to full speed in a flash, and that combines with his agility to let him change directions in ahurry. Change-of-direction quickness and burst lets him shake and make tacklers miss consistently -- very slippery and elusive runner in the open field. Has the explosive burst to get separation from the cornerback on short to medium routes and really shows that extra gear to break away from the defender on deep routes -- has shown ability to split the gap between the cornerback and safety and can get five yards of separation. Has the hands and coordination to adjust and make tough catches seem routine -- can pluck the overthrown pass surprisingly well.

Q.A.B. Quick Feet C.O.D. Flexibility Coordination
6.5 6.5 6.5 6.0 6.5



COMPETITIVENESS Section Grade: 6.0
Jennings is a tough football player who played through a lot of pain to stay in the lineup, which is what helped him set the Western Michigan receiving records. On the most important plays, Jennings has shown the ability to step up and make an impact -- not only does he make big catches, but he makes big plays once he is running with the ball in the open field. Was always able to get open, catch the ball and make things happen after the catch. Has the hands to haul in tough catches and has shown the willingness to catch passes in traffic, take the hard hit and hold onto the ball. A versatile team player who has lined up in a variety of spots so that the offense could get him the ball. Also returned punts as a senior despite being their premier player. He is a competitive runner after the catch, runs hard with the ball, and consistently avoid tackles to gain yards after the catch. Does a good job of not exposing himself to extra punishment -- goes down right before getting hit hard when there are a lot of tacklers around him.

Toughness Clutch Play Production Consistency Team Player Pride/Quit
6.0 6.5 6.0 6.0 6.5 6.0



MENTAL ALERTNESS Section Grade: 6.0
Jennings is a very smart football player, and he shows it by running very sharp and precise routes. Uses his hands very well to defeat the jam and does a very good job of coming back to the quarterback when he is flushed from the pocket. Top-notch instincts are combined with his quickness and speed to make him a dangerous runner in the open field -- follows blockers well and can make the quick cut off their blocks. Generally does a very good job of maintaining his concentration, which is what helps him to make tough catches on a regular basis. Occasionally he will take his eyes off the ball to peek upfield to see where he is going to run and ends up dropping some passes he should catch.

Learn/Retain Instincts/Reactions Concentration
6.5 6.5 6.0



STRENGTH/EXPLOSION Section Grade: 6.0
Jennings is basically built like the average NFL receiver at 5-foot-11 and 190-plus pounds, although on film he looks a bit shorter and thinner. Has been a durable receiver at Western Michigan while catching a ton of passes, so he should be equally durable in the NFL. He is a naturally explosive receiver that can burst out of cuts to get separation from cornerbacks and can hit holes to make big plays when running with the ball. Lacks the elite explosiveness and speed to explode by fast NFL players and score long touchdowns. Has shown decent strength keeping feet against low tackles, but he does not show the strength to break tackles consistently.

Body Type Durability Explosion Play Strength
6.0 6.0 6.0 5.0

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SATURDAY, April 29, 2006, 7:18 p.m.

By Cliff Christl

Robinson on Jennings
Greg Jennings, the wide receiver from Western Michigan drafted by the Packers in the second round, ran mostly short routes last season -- screens, slides and snags, etc. -- according to Jimmy Robinson, the Packers' wide receivers coach. But Robinson said Jennings ran deeper routes in a different system earlier in his career.

One of Jennings' strengths is his run-after-the-catch ability. Robinson said Jennings had a knack for making tacklers miss and also showed the ability to break tackles.

SATURDAY, April 29, 2006, 7:10 p.m.

By Cliff Christl

Jennings vs. Holmes
In some ways at least, Greg Jennings compares favorably to Santonio Holmes, the Pittsburgh Steelers' first-round draft pick, according to Jimmy Robinson, the Packers' wide receivers coach. Robinson said Holmes might be more explosive, but that Jennings had comparable hands and almost as much speed. The Packers selected Jennings, a wide receiver from Western Michigan, in the second round.

On Jennings: "Jennings is a guy that will be able to fill the multi-dimensional role left open by the unfortunate development with last year's second round pick, Terrence Murphy. Jennings can return punts and could develop into a good No. 2 option next to Donald Driver now that Javon Walker is in Denver. He doesn't have great speed, but he finds ways to be a playmaker."

Brandt on Jennings: "Jennings is a big-play guy. He's a very good return man, and might be a prospect at cornerback. He has good size and speed for a receiver."

Jennings returns kicks
Wide receiver Greg Jennings, the second of the Packers' two second-round draft picks, also returns kicks. He averaged 8.6 yards on 21 punt returns last fall. But as a junior, Jennings averaged 14.8 yards on 21 returns and scored two touchdowns. He returned kickoffs as a sophomore, averaging 21.6 yards on 31 returns.

Packers select Jennings
The Packers drafted Greg Jennings, a wide receiver from Western Michigan, with their second of two second-round draft choices. Jennings stands 5-foot-11, weighs 198 pounds and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.42 seconds. Jennings averaged 14.9 yards per catch and scored 39 touchdowns during his career. He finished his college career as the third leading receiver in Mid-American Conference history.






SATURDAY, April 29, 2006, 5:56 p.m.

By Dave Heller

NFL.com guys on Greg Jennings
Here's some initial reaction from Pat Kirwan and Gil Brandt (via Sirius NFL radio) after Green Bay's selection of Western Michigan WR Greg Jennings.

Kirwan said he was surprised at this pick, seeing him more as a fourth-rounder.

Brandt said Jennings is a big-play guy and a good kick returner who actually might also be able to play some cornerback.

[HarveyWallbangers]

Big-time late riser, so his bios (which are written around the combine) won't be as flattering. He was the consensus 4th best WR in the draft among my trustworthy sources.

Pro Football Weekly had him at #3 on the WR board (ahead of Sinorice Moss).
ESPN had him at #6.
Scout.com had him at #6.
NFL Draft Countdown had him at #9.
Packer Plus Insider had him at #4.
Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News had him at #4.
Tim McShay's mock draft had him going 6th among wideouts.

The mock drafts had him going anywhere from the early 2nd to early 3rd. I had him as late 2nd round value, and that's where he went.

[jack's smirking revenge]

Though he wasn't picked as late as him, he reminds of Driver. Kinda looks like him too.

tyler

[Tarlam!]

We have 10 WR on our roster (2 of which in NFLE). But I bet we get at least one more in the draft, and sign another 3 after the draft.

Of course we'll relegare about 3 to the P-Squad. Assuming we take 5 into the season, that's 6 we will cut.

The more I think about this pick in reflection of our WR core, the more I think this is a KR-specialist.Jennings will play on ST in year one.

I think DD is set, followed by Boerigter/Gardener. I think Fergie is on the hot seat to hang around.

My rankings:

80 Donald Driver----------------Alcorn State D7b-99
82 Rod Gardner-----------------Clemson W-05 (Car)
83 Marc Boerigter---------------Hastings UFA-06 (KC)
89 Robert Ferguson-------------Texas A&M D2-01
81 Greg Jennings---------------Western Michigan D2b-06
10 Chad Lucas------------------Alabama State FA-06
19 Vince Butler------------------Northwestern Oklahoma State FA-06
18 Ruvell Martin-----------------Saginaw Valley State FA-06
8 Leo Bookman-----------------Kansas FA-06
13 Willie Quinnie----------------Alabama-Birmingham FA-06

[Fritz]

I've seen lots of bitching on Packerrats about GB passing on Chad Jackson. I say so what? The guy clearly has some holes in his game or he'd have been chosen much sooner in a draft that lacked a strong wide receiver class. He seems to me to be one of those guys with "measurables" who may or may not be a football player.

I think it's also a mistake to somehow think Jennings replaces Walker. He doesn't. He's a guy who has punt and kick return ability (which, by the way, the Packers have lacked since Rossum) - just a different animal than Walker. The more I consider the pick, the more I like it. Rated anywhere from the third to ninth best receiver in the draft, he was, I think the third taken.

[Bretsky]

I've seen lots of bitching on Packerrats about GB passing on Chad Jackson. I say so what? The guy clearly has some holes in his game or he'd have been chosen much sooner in a draft that lacked a strong wide receiver class. He seems to me to be one of those guys with "measurables" who may or may not be a football player.

I think it's also a mistake to somehow think Jennings replaces Walker. He doesn't. He's a guy who has punt and kick return ability (which, by the way, the Packers have lacked since Rossum) - just a different animal than Walker. The more I consider the pick, the more I like it. Rated anywhere from the third to ninth best receiver in the draft, he was, I think the third taken.


Pretty sure he was the 4th WR taken behind Holmes, Jackson, and Moss.
It won't be hard for us to tell if Jackson was worth Jennings and Spitz a few years from now.

B

[HarveyWallbangers]

I ranked Jackson higher, but really felt the top was weak, and there wasn't a whole lot of difference between Jackson and the other guys ranked in the top 10 at WR. Jackson has the measurables, but he wasn't very productive at Florida--especially compared to other WRs that have come through there. Jennings might have been the most productive receiver in college. We'll see. I'm willing to give this one a chance without arguing one way or the other.

[Bossman641]

Bump

2.5 years is a good time to grade a draft right

[ahaha]

Most of the reports say he's not a down field threat. HA!

[gbgary]

this was a cool look back. bring up some more.

[PaCkFan_n_MD]

I've seen lots of bitching on Packerrats about GB passing on Chad Jackson. I say so what? The guy clearly has some holes in his game or he'd have been chosen much sooner in a draft that lacked a strong wide receiver class. He seems to me to be one of those guys with "measurables" who may or may not be a football player.

I think it's also a mistake to somehow think Jennings replaces Walker. He doesn't. He's a guy who has punt and kick return ability (which, by the way, the Packers have lacked since Rossum) - just a different animal than Walker. The more I consider the pick, the more I like it. Rated anywhere from the third to ninth best receiver in the draft, he was, I think the third taken.


Pretty sure he was the 4th WR taken behind Holmes, Jackson, and Moss.
It won't be hard for us to tell if Jackson was worth Jennings and Spitz a few years from now.

B

To answer your question 2.5 years later B, I think the answer is YES!

[cheesner]

I've seen lots of bitching on Packerrats about GB passing on Chad Jackson. I say so what? The guy clearly has some holes in his game or he'd have been chosen much sooner in a draft that lacked a strong wide receiver class. He seems to me to be one of those guys with "measurables" who may or may not be a football player.

I think it's also a mistake to somehow think Jennings replaces Walker. He doesn't. He's a guy who has punt and kick return ability (which, by the way, the Packers have lacked since Rossum) - just a different animal than Walker. The more I consider the pick, the more I like it. Rated anywhere from the third to ninth best receiver in the draft, he was, I think the third taken.


Pretty sure he was the 4th WR taken behind Holmes, Jackson, and Moss.
It won't be hard for us to tell if Jackson was worth Jennings and Spitz a few years from now.

B

To answer your question 2.5 years later B, I think the answer is YES!

I think you meant NO! Jennings and Spitz are worth much more than Jackson.

[HarveyWallbangers]

Most of the reports say he's not a down field threat. HA!

A few did, but others gave him plus on his speed and quickness and many said he was a playmaker.

[Bossman641]

Greg Jennings
Height: 5-11
Weight: 196
40 Speed: 4.54*
Position: Wide Receiver
College: Western Michigan
Final Grade: I 6.3 PR


GM JR Scouting LLC Grading Scale/Key



SUMMARY
Jennings is a player that is impressive. He is one of the few players at the position with no glaring weaknesses. He is a very good athlete with the foot quickness, balance and agility to make plays once he has the ball in his hands. While he lacks elite explosiveness and speed, Jennings runs sharp routes and has the ability to turn the cornerback around. This enables him to get better separation than most receivers who have better timed speed. While he is going to make a lot of big plays in the NFL, Jennings will get caught from behind more than he is used to. He runs hard with the ball and fights for extra yards until he is on the ground, and does a good job of blocking his man out of the play. Overall, Jennings is the type of receiver who usually ends up slipping a bit in the draft because he lacks the great height or elite 40-yard dash time that teams usually focus on. However, his athleticism will combine with his football intelligence and instincts to let him contribute sooner than nearly all the other receivers available this year. In the end, he will become a very good starting receiver that will make big plays when running after the catch and as a punt returner.

CRITICAL FACTORS
Size Athletic Ability Hands Competes Play Speed Instincts
6.0 6.5 6.5 6.0 6.0 6.5



STRONG POINTS
Jennings is a very good athlete with the foot quickness, agility and explosiveness to make big plays in the open field. He makes his biggest impact by making things happen after the catch. He is a very smart receiver that runs very sharp routes -- sells fakes very well and can get the cornerback to bite and turn the wrong way. When he can get the cornerback turned, Jennings has the burst to get separation deep down the field. He has very good hands and has shown the ability to pluck the ball away from defenders' hands at nearly full speed.



WEAKNESSES
Jennings will take his eyes off the ball at times and start upfield before tucking the ball away, which leads to him dropping some easy passes. He has a very good burst in routes and after the catch, but lacks the elite explosiveness and top-end speed -- fast NFL cornerbacks will be able to stay with him on deep routes. He looks smaller on film than his measured size, and while he can keep feet against hits and runs through arm tackles, he is not a tackle breaker.



POSITIONAL FACTORS
Grade Category Comments/Description
6.5 Hands Has very good hands -- can pluck the ball away from body well and can adjust to make great catches.
6.0 Initial Quickness Consistently gets off the ball and into the route quickly, but does not explode off the ball.
6.0 Clean Release Does a good job of getting off the ball and into the route quickly when he is uncovered by a cornerback.
6.0 Release vs. Jam His combination of quick feet, agility, strength and quick hands help him defeat the jam.
6.5 Patterns Runs very sharp and precise routes, and does a very good job of selling fakes to turn cornerbacks around.
6.5 Adjusts to Ball His hands, body control and coordination help him to adjust and make great catches seem routine.
6.5 Run after Catch He is an explosive runner after the catch who can make tacklers miss and has a burst through holes.
6.5 Deep Threat Has good speed, and his sharp routes and burst out of cuts help him easily get separation deep.
6.5 Hand/Eye Coordination Coordination allows him to make the super sharp cut without losing his footing.
6.0 Blocking Gives a good effort and nearly always stays on block long enough to eliminate his man from the play.
6.0 Return Ability His hands, quickness, elusiveness and burst make him a dangerous return man -- has experience at punt returner.
6.0 Fumbles/Error Not a fumbler and does not make any real errors, but needs to make all the easy catches every time.



ATHLETIC ABILITY Section Grade: 6.5
Jennings is a very good athlete and it has allowed him to be a dominant receiver in the MAC. His very quick feet enable him to accelerate to full speed in a flash, and that combines with his agility to let him change directions in ahurry. Change-of-direction quickness and burst lets him shake and make tacklers miss consistently -- very slippery and elusive runner in the open field. Has the explosive burst to get separation from the cornerback on short to medium routes and really shows that extra gear to break away from the defender on deep routes -- has shown ability to split the gap between the cornerback and safety and can get five yards of separation. Has the hands and coordination to adjust and make tough catches seem routine -- can pluck the overthrown pass surprisingly well.

Q.A.B. Quick Feet C.O.D. Flexibility Coordination
6.5 6.5 6.5 6.0 6.5



COMPETITIVENESS Section Grade: 6.0
Jennings is a tough football player who played through a lot of pain to stay in the lineup, which is what helped him set the Western Michigan receiving records. On the most important plays, Jennings has shown the ability to step up and make an impact -- not only does he make big catches, but he makes big plays once he is running with the ball in the open field. Was always able to get open, catch the ball and make things happen after the catch. Has the hands to haul in tough catches and has shown the willingness to catch passes in traffic, take the hard hit and hold onto the ball. A versatile team player who has lined up in a variety of spots so that the offense could get him the ball. Also returned punts as a senior despite being their premier player. He is a competitive runner after the catch, runs hard with the ball, and consistently avoid tackles to gain yards after the catch. Does a good job of not exposing himself to extra punishment -- goes down right before getting hit hard when there are a lot of tacklers around him.

Toughness Clutch Play Production Consistency Team Player Pride/Quit
6.0 6.5 6.0 6.0 6.5 6.0



MENTAL ALERTNESS Section Grade: 6.0
Jennings is a very smart football player, and he shows it by running very sharp and precise routes. Uses his hands very well to defeat the jam and does a very good job of coming back to the quarterback when he is flushed from the pocket. Top-notch instincts are combined with his quickness and speed to make him a dangerous runner in the open field -- follows blockers well and can make the quick cut off their blocks. Generally does a very good job of maintaining his concentration, which is what helps him to make tough catches on a regular basis. Occasionally he will take his eyes off the ball to peek upfield to see where he is going to run and ends up dropping some passes he should catch.

Learn/Retain Instincts/Reactions Concentration
6.5 6.5 6.0



STRENGTH/EXPLOSION Section Grade: 6.0
Jennings is basically built like the average NFL receiver at 5-foot-11 and 190-plus pounds, although on film he looks a bit shorter and thinner. Has been a durable receiver at Western Michigan while catching a ton of passes, so he should be equally durable in the NFL. He is a naturally explosive receiver that can burst out of cuts to get separation from cornerbacks and can hit holes to make big plays when running with the ball. Lacks the elite explosiveness and speed to explode by fast NFL players and score long touchdowns. Has shown decent strength keeping feet against low tackles, but he does not show the strength to break tackles consistently.

Body Type Durability Explosion Play Strength
6.0 6.0 6.0 5.0

I think this one is the most accurate overall.

Anyone know where this came from?

[HarveyWallbangers]

What were they thinking? A lot of them contradicted themselves. I think a lot of the knocks on being a downfield threat stem from his averaging leaping ability and lack of size. They underestimated his ball skills.


STRENGTHS
Quickness off Line

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
Downfield Threa


Pos: Fast off the line, sharp running routes and gets separation from opponents.

Neg: Not a true downfield threat.


Positives: his separation speed on deep plays that'll get everyone excited.


Strengths: Has deceptive speed; does not get caught from behind.

Weaknesses: lacks the speed to separate on downfield routes.


Strengths:
Can create after the catch and came through with a lot of big plays

Weaknesses:
Is not much of a deep threat and won't stretch the field


Strengths: He is quicker than fast but also possesses good top-end speed. Shows a little bit of a second gear when he hits daylight. Knows how to separate and also has a very good feel for finding soft spots in zone. He's a threat after the catch.

Weaknesses: He doesn't show the leaping ability or size to make many plays vertically in the passing game at the NFL level.


STRONG POINTS
Jennings is a very good athlete with the foot quickness, agility and explosiveness to make big plays in the open field. He makes his biggest impact by making things happen after the catch. When he can get the cornerback turned, Jennings has the burst to get separation deep down the field.

WEAKNESSES
He has a very good burst in routes and after the catch, but lacks the elite explosiveness and top-end speed -- fast NFL cornerbacks will be able to stay with him on deep routes.

[oregonpackfan]

Many years ago, a number of draft "experts" gave mediocre evaluations to a small college receiver named Jerry Rice. Let's not forget the achievements he made in the NFL.

[BF4MVP]

Greg Jennings seems like a "Packer Person"
I stand by this statement 8-)

And he's a helluva receiver too.

[cpk1994]

I've seen lots of bitching on Packerrats about GB passing on Chad Jackson. I say so what? The guy clearly has some holes in his game or he'd have been chosen much sooner in a draft that lacked a strong wide receiver class. He seems to me to be one of those guys with "measurables" who may or may not be a football player.

I think it's also a mistake to somehow think Jennings replaces Walker. He doesn't. He's a guy who has punt and kick return ability (which, by the way, the Packers have lacked since Rossum) - just a different animal than Walker. The more I consider the pick, the more I like it. Rated anywhere from the third to ninth best receiver in the draft, he was, I think the third taken.


Pretty sure he was the 4th WR taken behind Holmes, Jackson, and Moss.
It won't be hard for us to tell if Jackson was worth Jennings and Spitz a few years from now.

B

To answer your question 2.5 years later B, I think the answer is YES!

I think you meant NO! Jennings and Spitz are worth much more than Jackson.Actually, Spitz is worth more than Jackson by himself.

[BF4MVP]

I've seen lots of bitching on Packerrats about GB passing on Chad Jackson. I say so what? The guy clearly has some holes in his game or he'd have been chosen much sooner in a draft that lacked a strong wide receiver class. He seems to me to be one of those guys with "measurables" who may or may not be a football player.

I think it's also a mistake to somehow think Jennings replaces Walker. He doesn't. He's a guy who has punt and kick return ability (which, by the way, the Packers have lacked since Rossum) - just a different animal than Walker. The more I consider the pick, the more I like it. Rated anywhere from the third to ninth best receiver in the draft, he was, I think the third taken.


Pretty sure he was the 4th WR taken behind Holmes, Jackson, and Moss.
It won't be hard for us to tell if Jackson was worth Jennings and Spitz a few years from now.

B

To answer your question 2.5 years later B, I think the answer is YES!

I think you meant NO! Jennings and Spitz are worth much more than Jackson.Actually, Spitz is worth more than Jackson by himself.
Absolutely. Jackson isn't on an NFL roster, and Spitz is a solid starter on our line..

[Tyrone Bigguns]

Many years ago, a number of draft "experts" gave mediocre evaluations to a small college receiver named Jerry Rice. Let's not forget the achievements he made in the NFL.

I think your memory is off. While scouts had some concerns with his speed, he was a first round pick and he was the #1 pick of the whole USFL in 85.

[mission]

thank god for that 4.54 speed (draft time) because jennings is AMAZING!!!

[pbmax]

Even if Jennings hadn't been this good, it would have been worth passing on Jackson just so we got to see that goofy picture of a smilin' Jason Spitz after the draft.

And while Santonio Holmes has been making inroads with the Steelers this year, Jennings is clearly the top of the class. Kudos to T2 and the scouts/coaches that valued him.

http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/lou/sports/m-footbl/03-04roster/HS_spitz_jason.jpg

[HarveyWallbangers]

thank god for that 4.54 speed (draft time) because jennings is AMAZING!!!

I'm not sure where people are pulling that number from. I remembered it being in the mid 4.4s. Researching now, that's where most seem to put it.

http://www.kffl.com/article/47733/160


After putting up huge numbers his senior year he was mentioned as a late day two pick. After a great combine, including running a sparkling 4.42 40, his stock has increased even more.

[cheesner]

Even if Jennings hadn't been this good, it would have been worth passing on Jackson just so we got to see that goofy picture of a smilin' Jason Spitz after the draft.

And while Santonio Holmes has been making inroads with the Steelers this year, Jennings is clearly the top of the class. Kudos to T2 and the scouts/coaches that valued him.

http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/lou/sports/m-footbl/03-04roster/HS_spitz_jason.jpgShoots holes in the Quality vrs Quantity complaint of trade downs. It is possible to get Quality AND quantity if you have a quality GM and scouting staff.

[Guiness]

Actually, Spitz is worth more than Jackson by himself.

Actually...given Jackson's current situation sans an NFL gig...

Hawk is worth more than him
Jennings is worth more than him
Colledge is worth more than him
Spitz is worth more than him
Blackmon is worth more than him
Jolly is worth more than him

That's pretty much the whole draft class from that year, isn't it? :)

[pbmax]

I have read 4.42 and 4.5 for his combine numbers in several places. I occasionally see the reference to 4.54, but am unsure when that number was put up, if at all. Did he go to a Pro Day? Did he do a private workout in KaZoo?



thank god for that 4.54 speed (draft time) because jennings is AMAZING!!!

I'm not sure where people are pulling that number from. I remembered it being in the mid 4.4s. Researching now, that's where most seem to put it.

http://www.kffl.com/article/47733/160


After putting up huge numbers his senior year he was mentioned as a late day two pick. After a great combine, including running a sparkling 4.42 40, his stock has increased even more.