Texas Tech NFL Draft Profile: Ja’Deion High

During Ja’Deion High’s career in Lubbock, he was most notably an effective special teams player. He earned the right to play meaningful snaps, but not until 2018 did he show what he could do at the wide receiver position.

Nearly all of the Hereford, Texas native’s production came in 2018 when he tallied 62 receptions for 804 yards and 4 touchdowns. In his previous 3 seasons he only had 21 receptions for 223 yards and 1 touchdown. High’s most notable play came against the TCU Horned Frogs when he was left alone and took a Jett Duffey pass to the house.

Pros:

• The slot receiver position has become a crucial part of many offenses in the NFL. Guys similar to High’s stature – 5’11” and 190lbs – have found themselves to be successful in today’s NFL (i.e. Danny Amendola, Wes Welker, Jakeem Grant, Keke Coutee).
• Ability to play on special teams. While not the flashiest role, pro teams do need guys that are willing to do whatever it takes, and special teams is the best way for players to do that.

Cons:

• High only has a full year worth of tape for scouts. With limited film, it is unlikely we will see a team take him in the NFL Draft.
• Lack of kick returning experience also decreases High’s probability of making an NFL roster. Guys like High that didn’t get a lot of playing time in college, need to make an impact in other ways and kick returning would be a great way for High to see the field. Unfortunately for him, guys like Keke Coutee and Jakeem Grant overshadowed him when it came to returning kicks during his time in Lubbock.

Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

Projection:

Ja’Deion High has the potential to make an NFL roster. Similar to Cam Batson, he could sneak up on an organization and become a good contributing member for a team. In all likelihood High will go undrafted and look for a team to sign him as an undrafted free agent. If the NFL doesn’t work for High, I could see him being a great player in the AAF or the CFL.