The draft talk right now is mostly focused on a pair of quarterbacks: Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III. It likely will be, assuming RG3 declares for the draft, for months, but one of the more interesting discussions about prospects will be the debate about Justin Blackmon versus Michael Floyd as the top wide receiver in the 2012 NFL Draft. That's a conversation that will be of supreme interest to fans of the St. Louis Rams.
You can watch Floyd play tonight in the Champs Sports Bowl, which starts at 5:30 ET.
Either player would be a wonderful addition for the Rams, and both are widely expected to be picked in the first round among the top 15 picks.
Let's take a look at the debate after the jump.
First, a look at the stats for both players.
Floyd measures 6'3", 228 lbs. Here are Floyd's stats for 2011:
Blackmon is 6'1" 207 lbs. And here are Blackmon's numbers for the year:
Blackmon plays in Oklahoma State's spread offense, but few, rightly, see that as a knock against him. Notre Dame runs a more pro style offense.
Floyd's size has won him a number of converts among draftniks. He has the size typical of a top wide receiver at the NFL level. Blackmon is hardly a midget, and he has enough vertical ability to make up for the difference in inches.
Neither prospect will wow anyone with their forty times, of course, I remember people saying that about Julio Jones, so stay tuned. Still, neither one of them is a 4.3 guy, but they could sneak below 4.5 in pre-draft workouts. Blackmon is probably a little more explosive and possesses the awareness to get downfield and makes plays. Floyd relies more on power to make moves after the catch.
Both players have excellent hands.
Character concerns have plagued both players, and Floyd has three alcohol related arrests. DUIs and underage drinking college? I've never heard of such behavior.
Ultimately, Blackmon looks like he could be a more explosive player. Both will get first round grades, and we'll be treated to an excellent debate about which one would be the best pick for the Rams. Frankly, either one would be an upgrade over any receiver on the roster now, a big upgrade.
Prospect notes for Blackmon and for Floyd from Mocking the Draft.
Scouting reports from NFL Draft Scout for Blackmon and again for Floyd.