Danny Gray WR SMU: Scouting Report

Height: 6’0’’

Weight: 197

Overall

Danny Gray is a dynamic receiver in SMU’s spread offense. He began his college career at Blinn College before transferring to SMU prior to the 2020 season. In his 2 seasons at SMU, he played in 18 games, starting all of them. He plays with toughness and although he did not play against the best competition, he shows the talent to play a role in the NFL.

Pass Game

Gray has a very quick release off the line and has the speed to take the top off the defense. He has a good frame but struggles to create space against physical corners down the field. He did not run a lot of complex routes in college and was used on a lot of deep and out breaking routes. He takes far too many steps at the top of his routes which limits his ability to create separation. He has good hands and shows excellent body control to make plays on under--thrown balls. With the ball in his hands, he has elite speed and the quickness to make defenders miss. He is a true big play threat and can be a quality starter later in his career.

Run Game

Gray was not used as a runner on film but as a blocker he showed good effort in creating space for the ball-carrier. HE has the size and strength to be a sufficient blocker at the next level.

Last Word

Danny Gray projects best as a Z receiver in the NFL where he can play on both the outside and inside to have more room to work with off his release. He has good hands and can be a weapon on third downs with his ability to make plays after the catch. He also has experience as both a kick returner and punt returner which will give him an immediate role to begin his career.

One-Liner: Danny Gray has the physical talent to eventually grow into a quality receiver, but he needs to develop his route running skills and physicality before he can be a reliable starter.

Grade: 5.9 (Backup #4 with Special Teams Ability)

Games Watched: 2021 – Tulane, Memphis, Houston

Team Fits: Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears, Los Angeles Rams