Xavier Hutchinson (WR) – Iowa St. / Junior
6’2” / 203.0 lbs (Combine)
2022 Stats: 12 games, 107 receptions, 1171 yards, 10.6 yards per reception, 6 touchdowns
{reference: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/xavier-hutchinson-1.html}
Awards: Big-12 #1 in receptions in ’20, ’21, ’22; Big-12 top 2 in receiving yards in ’20, ’21, ’22, (and #8 NCAA in ’22); Big-12 top 10 in both receiving TDs and yards from scrimmage (’20, ’21, ’22)
Measurables: Hands – 9-3/8”; Arm – 31-3/8”; 40-yard: 4.53, 10-yard split: 1.55, Vertical: 36″, Broad: 9’8″‘, 3-Cone: 6.91, 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.35 (Combine)
Games Watched: 2022 @ Texas, 2022 @ Iowa, 2022 vs SE Missouri
PRO’S
Xavier Hutchinson is a versatile receiver who dominated his competition: grading at 89.7 (2nd in CFB), totaling 1,171 yards (3rd) and 107 catches (1st). He wins with route running, nuance and the overall football “instincts” than other “less-athletic” receivers possess. Hutchinson has a long build with extremely good hands. He runs sudden and nuanced routes- two traits that will let him start as a rookie. He can run a full route tree and can line up anywhere on the field. Hutchinson’s ball skills are great and he continually came down with tough 1v1 catches.
CON’S
Hutchinson lacks the elite traits of a dominant X receiver. He is lanky and will struggle with NFL physicality at the catch point. Hutchinson can’t win reps with his juice and burst, making his route running extremely important. He’s not a field stretcher or deep play threat that scares a defense. Overall, his average athleticism, quickness and size limit his big play potential and receiver ceiling.
OVERALL
While lacking the elite traits of a dominant X receiver, Hutchinson has all the classic receiver skills needed to become one. He is very instinctual and has good route running and hands, which is all backed up by great production this year. He has X receiver length but has a slender build. Xavier lacks elite athleticism and has some trouble dealing with physicality. His combine performance was solid, but didn’t vault his athletic status. If Hutchinson can overcome athletic questions he will be a true starting X, if not he’s a great rotational/backend starting WR.
Completed by: Efram (@Mr1rrelevant), 03/11/23
Reviewed & edited: J. Clark, 03/11/23
