Iowa State wide receiver Jayden Higgins has all the traits NFL teams covet in a prototypical X receiver. Standing tall at 6’4”, Higgins uses his impressive frame to his advantage, boxing out defenders and easily creating separation. His physical tools, versatility, and technical skills make him one of the more intriguing receiver prospects in the 2025 draft class.
A Matchup Nightmare
Higgins’ ability to leverage his size and physicality against corners is one of his standout traits. At 6’4” with a strong catch radius, he excels in contested catch situations, turning 50-50 balls into his favor. However, Higgins is more than just a big-bodied receiver. He’s shown versatility in his alignment, demonstrating effectiveness not only as an outside target but also running routes from the slot, adding another layer to his skillset.
His route running is particularly advanced for a player of his size. Higgins has developed a diverse route tree, making him a threat at all three levels of the field. He combines his football IQ with strong body control, allowing him to manipulate defenders and find soft spots in coverage. Whether it’s working the boundary or exploiting mismatches over the middle, Higgins is a difficult assignment for any defensive back.
An Impressive College Career
Higgins’ adaptability was evident when he transferred to Iowa State from Eastern Kentucky after his sophomore season. The transition to a higher level of competition in the Big 12 didn’t slow him down; in fact, it helped him thrive. Higgins enjoyed a breakout junior campaign with the Cyclones, setting career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.
In his senior season, Higgins surpassed the 1,000-yard mark while adding eight receiving touchdowns to his resume. This production not only highlights his ability to perform consistently but also shows his knack for stepping up in high-pressure moments. His performance this year has given scouts plenty of tape to evaluate, and he continues to impress with his all-around game.
NFL Potential
Higgins projects as an ideal X receiver at the next level, capable of thriving in a variety of offensive schemes. His size and physicality make him a reliable option in contested situations, while his refined route running and football IQ give him the ability to create separation against top-level competition.
While his physical traits stand out, Higgins’ versatility is an underrated aspect of his game. His experience lining up in the slot during his senior year has added another dimension to his skillset, making him a potential fit for teams that value receivers who can move around the formation.
What’s Next for Higgins?
With his college career now complete, Higgins’ attention will turn to the pre-draft process. A strong showing at the Senior Bowl and a solid performance at the NFL Combine could significantly boost his stock. Scouts will be eager to see how he tests athletically, particularly in terms of speed and agility, to complement the size and skills he’s already shown on film.
Jayden Higgins has already proven he has the tools to excel at the next level. As teams look to add a prototypical X receiver to their roster, Higgins’ combination of size, versatility, and technical proficiency makes him a solid option in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Comments