2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: TJ Sheffield, WR, Purdue

TJ Sheffield is one of the favorite receiving targets in the Purdue offense who can be dangerous in space. Hula Bowl scout Michael Williams breaks down Sheffield as an NFL Prospect in his report.

Player Data

Name, Jersey #	TJ Sheffield, # 8
School (Code)	Purdue University (INPU)
DOB, Class Yr	12/14/2000, RS Senior
Height, Weight	5100, 190 lbs.
40 Yd Dash	4.53e
Position/Depth	WR #1
Honors/Captainship	N/A
Season Viewed (yr)	2021, 2023
Games Watched	TNUN(2021), LAST(2023), VAPI(2023)
Scout Name / Date	Michael Williams, 10-13-2023

Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)

2023	6 GP, 24 REC, 284 YDS, 1 TD, 47.3 AVG YPG
2022	14 GP, 46 REC, 480 YDS, 4 TD, 34.3 AVG YPG
2021	12 GP 36 REC, 325 YDS, 5 TD, 27.1 AVG YPG
2020	6 GP, 2 REC, 11 YDS, 1.8 AVG YPG
2019	3 GP, 2 REC, 12 YDS, 4.0 AVG YPG

Player Summary:

Former 4-Star recruit TJ Sheffield is a RS Senior who has played for INPU for the last 5 years. He has experience aligning as an X WR and a Slot WR in Purdue’s Spread Offense. Sheffield has below-average height and satisfactory weight to compete at the next level. His slim body frame could stand to add a bit more muscle to be able to take on the punishment of the NFL. He also possesses average-length arms and hands. On film he displayed above-average speed. His straight-line speed is solid and his acceleration is average. Not very agile in space, struggles at times changing direction. Even though he is not the fastest person on the field, Sheffield has good AA. He has good body control which allows him to stay square and balanced when he takes on hits. Demonstrates the ability to get off the LOS against press-man coverage. Good at eating space quickly against off-man and zone coverages. His ability to avoid tackles after the catch is above-average and at times requires multiple defenders to bring him down. Needs to improve catching the ball with his hands, and tends to catch the ball with his body. Will need to improve in that area. Besides his hands, Sheffield is great at making contested catches. His toughness shows on film as he is not afraid to go over the middle and take a big hit. Very precise route runner. Does not waste any steps getting into his route. Has the ability to create separation quickly. His football IQ (FBI) is high. He has displayed the ability on film to find holes in the defensive zone. Can sit and create a target for the QB. As a run blocker, Sheffield is average as a WR. He demonstrates the ability to execute his block and sustain it.

Scheme Fit:

West Coast Slot WR

Power Statement:

TJ Sheffield is an impactful possession WR who has below-average height and satisfactory weight but has good AA. He is a great contested catcher, but his agility and speed will be his major concern. His route running and his ability to avoid tackles after the catch will be qualities that catch a scout’s attention. He is having a decent start to the season so far. He will need to have a big second half of the season in order to improve his draft stock.