Steelers Draft Watch: WR Noah Brown

WR Noah Brown, Ohio State

While many of you have probably seen “The Catch of the Year” in College Football, I bet the vast majority of you haven’t heard of Ohio State’s Noah Brown. Only a red-shirt Sophomore, Brown has started his 2016 campaign with a bang, and has thus launched himself into consideration for the 2017 NFL Draft.

In a highly anticipated matchup vs. Oklahoma, Brown stole the spotlight and reeled in 4 touchdowns in the victory.

Strengths

First of all, have you seen Brown’s catch above? I’ll admit that it was my first introduction to Brown and how he first ended up on my radar. After diving into his performance vs. Oklahoma, I learned that Brown was not just a “one catch wonder.”

Noah Brown possesses impeccable concentration while at the catch point. Brown excels at tracking passes while in the air and adjusting his body to be in a position to make a play. As displayed in his miraculous catch above, Brown also has incredibly strong hands that allow him to execute one-handed catches.

Another facet of Brown’s game that impressed me was his quick footwork and sharp route-running. Brown breaks off his routes with excellent suddenness, putting his impressive change of direction skills on display. Also, Brown has demonstrated the ability to cut on a dime and easily create separation for himself. Brown’s combination of twitchy routes and NFL size make him a deadly red zone combination.

To compliment his effective route running, Brown has a big frame that allow him to box out DBs and win in jump ball situations. Brown dominates his opposition at the catch point and attacks the ball in the air with an aggressive mindset. These aforementioned traits additionally make Brown a dominant back shoulder target.

Lastly, you have to love a WR who gives great effort as a blocker. Brown is a willing and effective blocker in the run game, and never takes a snap off. Overall, Brown’s combination of technique, size, and physicality make him an intriguing draft prospect.