LSU senior wide receiver Racey McMath is something of a mystery entering the 2021 NFL draft cycle because of his limited playing time before finally elevating to the starting lineup this past season. Prior to 2020, McMath failed to register a start for the Tigers but managed to contribute albeit on a limited level.
McMath entered this year with 19 catches for 327 yards and three scores. At the time of this evaluation, he’s registered 14 catches for 195 yards and one touchdown in 2020. For his up-to-date stats, click here.
Physically, McMath stands an impressive (estimated) 6-3, 224 pounds. He carries his weight well and looks like he can add a few more pounds, although it isn’t advisable. His game benefits from his plus speed. Adding more weight will lessen his appeal.
Athletically, McMath has above-average vertical speed and is an adequate lateral mover for a guy his size. While he does get choppy when gearing down and changing directions, his ability to run by defenders is a plus on vertical routes and after the catch.
McMath’s limited playing time is evident in his route-running. He’ll need to work on cleaning up his breaks and being a better salesman at the top of his routes in order to earn playing time early in his NFL career, but the baseline skill set and upside is there. Good things usually happen when he’s targeted and he’s proven his ability as a reliable playmaker when his number is called.
The offseason process will be critically important to McMath’s final draft value. He’ll ned a big week of practices at the 2021 Senior Bowl and a strong showing at the NFL Combine to garner more than a late-Day-3 grade. Even if he represents himself well at those events, it’s difficult projecting him as anything more than a late-rounder because of his limited film.
Teams that value traits will like McMath more than most. He has the body and the athletic foundation to sculpt into a quality pro, although he shouldn’t be counted on to be anything more than a depth player with spot-duty upside in the NFL.
GRADE: 5.2 (7th round)