New Orleans Saints undrafted rookie profile: Lil’ Jordan Humphrey

Failing to land with a team during the draft, Texas wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey signed as a UDFA with the New Orleans Saints shortly after round 7 finished. Already a crowded group at wide receiver, Humphrey will have an uphill battle if he wants to make it to the 53-man roster. However, he does fit the mold that Sean Payton looks for in a big slot receiver, and could claim a spot if Cameron Meredith fails to get healthy in time for the season.

Humphrey had a quiet college career at the University of Texas until breaking out in his junior season, before declaring for the NFL Draft.

College Stats:

Combine measurements and test results:

• 6’4” 210 lbs.
• 40: 4.75
• Vert: 33.5
• Broad: 119
• 3-cone: 7.09
• 20 yard shuttle: 4.29

Used primarily in the slot at Texas, Humphrey made a living off of underneath passes and screens, where his ability to gain yards after the catch could be used fully. This is possibly one of his best traits, as his size and strength make it rare for the first defender to bring him down. He displays excellent balance through contract and enough lateral agility to make a defender miss.

Another trait that sticks out is his ability to make a contested catch. While he doesn’t have the most consistent hands and can improve at high-pointing the ball, Humphrey has the size to be a matchup problem for smaller defensive backs when he has to go up and get it.

Not the most nuanced route-runner, Humphrey’s route tree is somewhat limited. He struggles against press coverage and needs to learn to better incorporate his hands to fight through contact, but will effectively uses jab-steps on his breaks to create separation, and is most effective on out/in-breaking routes.

Humphrey won’t be a deep threat in the NFL, as evidenced by his slow 40 time. But he does offer a similar play style to Michael Thomas, who can run underneath routes, make the tough contested catches, and is able to break tackles and pick up yards after the catch.

Its a long shot for Humphrey to make this squad, but if he improves his route running and gains an understanding of the offense, his skill set could be a perfect fit for the Saints offense.