Jacksonville Jaguars: 7-Round 2018 mock draft post-free agency
By Larry Brake
Round 6: Allen Lazard, WR, Iowa State
Allen Lazard is a big receiver that makes big plays. Against Oklahoma, in Norman, Lazard caught three passes for 69 yards with one touchdown. The one touchdown proved to be the margin of victory for Iowa State, on the road.
Lazard is a big receiver, physically. He stands 6-5, weighing 222 pounds. He creates a mismatch because he towers over most defensive backs.
In his collegiate career, he caught 241 passes for 3,360 yards with 26 touchdowns. Most of all, he averaged 13.9 yards per reception. The Jaguars need the possession receiver that helps move the chains.
Lazard has good speed to go with his physicality. At the Combine, he ran a 4.55-second 40-yard dash. With his size and speed, Lazard will be able to stretch the field vertically. This would open the middle of the field for crossing routes.
Lance Zierlein of NFL.com discusses Lazard’s potential:
"Lazard has been a productive, four-year player who relies on his size and strength to muscle Big 12 cornerbacks around when making the contested catch. Lazard is a possession receiver, … With his size and toughness, a switch to pass-catching tight end might give him a better shot at having a productive NFL career."
Jacksonville could utilize Lazard as a split receiver or as a tight end. His versatility makes him invaluable as an offensive tool in the salary cap era.