2023 NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Jalen Wayne, WR, South Alabama

Jalen Wayne has been a dependable receiver and solid run blocker for South Alabama. Hula Bowl scout CJ Marable breaks down Wayne as an NFL Prospect in his report.

Player Data

Name, Jersey #	Jalen Wayne, #0
School (Code)	ALSO
DOB, Class Yr	May 13, 1999 / 6th Year Senior
Height, Weight	6015, 205
40 Yd Dash	4.55
Arms, Hands	3212, 0938
Position/Depth	WR/Starter
Honors/Captainship	Honorable Mention All-Sun Belt Conference, 2nd Team All-SBC Pro Football Network, 4th Team All-Sunbelt by Phil Steele (2021)
Season Viewed (yr)	2021, 2022
Games Watched	SCCC, MICE, LASW
Scout Name / Date	CJ Marable / November 1, 2022

Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)

2022	8 GP, 43 REC, 643 YDS, 6 TD
2021	12 GP, 53 REC, 630 YDS, 2 TD
2020	11 GP, 33 REC, 418 YDS, 1 TD
2019	9 GP, 5 REC, 62 YDS, 2 TD
2018	4 GP, 0 REC, 0 YDS, 0 TD

Player Summary:

The sixth-year senior moves into the WR1 spot this year. Across the board, he possesses above-average height, weight, arm and hands size. For his size, he’s very fluid in and out of his brakes. He has great feet and a planned release which allows him to get off press coverage frequently. At times, he has trouble creating separation which allows the cornerback to make a play on him. He has the potential to be a great route runner but needs work on sinking his hips and running crisp routes. He has the ability to maintain his speed through contact to create separation versus off coverage. He shows flashes of having a deep threat ability. He displays great body control which allows him to have the ability to adjust to the ball well but I would like to see him win more of his 1v1 matchups. He is an above-average run blocker who displays the want to and willingness to block. He also shows great strike at the POA and physical toughness while run blocking which allows him to dominate his defenders. He displays great football IQ, heart and mental toughness in digging out linebackers and safeties to create a lane for his RB that results in a huge play. At times, he takes plays off and shows laziness on inside run plays. He showcases the ability to make defenders miss with the ball in his hands. It is surprising his elusiveness isn’t limited to his ability to win after the catch, due to him having high hips and long legs.

Scheme Fit:

Spread

Power Statement:

An above-average run blocker and dependable receiver. Needs work on sinking his hips and running crisp routes. Have the ability to translate to the next level, route running is average but can be polished with coaching.