WR Santonio Holmes - Ohio St
Santonio Holmes has been one of the biggest playmakers in the Big 10 since his sophomore season. In 2003, he hauled in 32 grabs for 549 yards and seven touchdowns. He improved those numbers as a junior, earning All Big 10 2nd team honors after catching 55 balls for 769 yards and seven touchdowns. As a senior, Holmes earned 1st Team All Conference honors after finishing the year with 53 receptions for 977 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Holmes is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He has the quickness, acceleration, and long range speed to be a big time threat with the ball in his hands. He can take the quick screen and make a big play, or beat corners down the field vertically. He is tough and will not back down from anyone. Holmes also brings value as a kick and punt returner. He could be a real playmaker on special teams, though he was not a full time special teamer for Ohio St. because of the presence of explosive sophomore Ted Ginn Jr.
As with most of the elite playmakers, Holmes lacks the size to be an intermediate threat. His lack of bulk will not allow him to cross the middle of the field consistently. He also may have issues getting off the line against press coverage.
Santonio may be the best wide receiver in the 2006 draft. He is a major playmaker and should make his share of big plays at the next level, as both a receiver and return man. His lack of size may hinder his all around impact as a receiver, but he should be a major contributor for whatever team selects him in April. At this point he looks like a very safe bet to land in the first round and may be the first receiver selected.
