Sterling Shepard Scouting Report

Sterling Shepard WR Oklahoma #3

Size/Athleticism: 5’10”, 193 pounds. Good all-around athlete. Shows great body control and balance. Speed and acceleration are strong but a notch below elite level.

Separation Skills: Relies on speed to create separation. Does not have the size or strength to battle for contested catches and definitely needs to create space to make plays. Routes are adequate but will need some development to consistently create separation in the NFL.

Ball Skills: Reliable hands. Has the body control to make some tough catches. Lets the ball into his body a little too often, which led to a few drops, but when using proper technique he’s reliable.

Blocking: Gives a strong effort but size limits the damage he can do. His effectiveness all depends on the matchup.

Intangibles: Team leader. Praised by teammates and coaches.

Durability: Missed time with a hamstring injury in 2014.

Overview: Shepard is an explosive receiver who has the versatile skills to play on the outside or slot in the NFL. He’s dangerous after the catch on shorter routes, but also has the quickness in his routes to create separation down the field. His size is a minor concern, especially since he doesn’t have blazing speed, but he’s shown enough in his routes to believe he’ll be a reliable second or third option in an offense. He fits the profile of a Steve Smith-type receiver at the next level.