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NFL Draft: Top 25 prospects from the Big 12

By Briley Hughes

NORMAN, OK - NOVEMBER 10: Quarterback Kyler Murray #1 of the Oklahoma Sooners approaches the stands after the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Norman, Oklahoma. Oklahoma defeated Oklahoma State 48-47. (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images)
NORMAN, OK - NOVEMBER 10: Quarterback Kyler Murray #1 of the Oklahoma Sooners approaches the stands after the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on November 10, 2018 in Norman, Oklahoma. Oklahoma defeated Oklahoma State 48-47. (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images)
(Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images) /

Hakeem Butler used his massive 6-foot-6, 225-pound frame to set Iowa State’s single season receiving record by racking up 1,318 yards. He ridiculously achieved that record with only 60 receptions – an average of 22 yards per reception. To cap off his 2018 season, Butler hulled in nine touchdown passes. When Iowa State needed a big play, they turned to Hakeem Butler, their big-time wide receiver.

Using his length and size, Butler dominated in contested situations and flashed as the ultimate vertical threat finishing the 2018 season with 25 reception of over 20 yards. Kyle Crabbs of The Draft Network described Butler best: “Red zone and back shoulder monster. True ‘power forward’ receiver who is a nightmare as he’s receiving the catch.” Butler also showed off the ability to get yards after the catch, running over smaller defenders in the secondary.

With all his physical tools and mile-long highlight reel, Butler’s negatives are easy to overlook. Though he’ll periodically make jaw-dropping one-handed snags, Butler struggles making receptions with his hands. His route running and technique leaves much to be desired. But perhaps the most important concern NFL teams have is Butler’s speed. Butler was able to take the top off college defenses, but without a 40-yard dash time on record, teams will anxiously await his time from the combine.

If he shows respectable speed, expect to see Butler come off the board in the first round.

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