TR's Take: James Wilder Jr.

By Kevin Ledford | 07.29.2010

James Wilder Jr.
ATH | 6'2", 225
Plant (Fla.) High School

TR Ranking:

6.1 |

State: #3 in Florida

Position: #1 ATH

Scouting Report:

RB
Size/Body Structure: 10
Strength: 9
Vision: 8
Speed: 8
Power: 10
Elusiveness: 6
Burst/Explosiveness: 7
Balance: 8
Ball Security: 8
Receiving: 7
Blocking: 6
Durability: 8
Intangibles: 8

LB
Size/Body Structure: 9
Strength: 9
Speed: 8
Explosiveness: 8
Athleticism: 8
Tackling: 7
Coverage: 7
Technique: 7
Pursuit: 8
Read/React: 9
Block Shedding: 8
Motor: 8
Durability: 8
Intangibles: 8

The first thing that you notice with Wilder is his size and chiseled physique. He’s a physical specimen that still has plenty of room to grow. He could play either RB or LB at the next level. As an RB, he is a punishing runner that fits best in a downhill, north/south scheme. Cuts and redirects well, but is at his best when attacking straight ahead. Displays a vicious stiff-arm and tremendous core and lower body strength that makes tackling him very difficult…great leg drive. Picks up a lot of yards after contact and seems to enjoy it. Very good vision and balance. Tends to run too high and upright and will need to work on that if he plans to stay at RB at the next level. Natural talent shows more at LB than at RB. Displays more burst and sharper instincts on defense and plays noticeably faster due to better knowledge and understanding of the position. Very aggressive and physical. Always seems to be around the football. Tremendous coming off the edge as a pass rusher and when blitzing. Reads and diagnoses plays quickly. Aggressive style can lead to over-pursuit at times, but he has the ability to recover quickly and still put himself in position to make the play. Very good closing speed. Shows good coverage skills. Needs to refine his technique as he depends more on his athleticism at this point. Uses his hands well to disengage and get off of blocks but relies more on his brute strength than technique. Violent tackler but doesn‘t always break down and can get sloppy with his form.


Translation to College:

Whether at LB or RB, Wilder will be physically ready to contribute immediately at the next level. Could be an effective workhorse back in a pro-style offense but has the most upside as an OLB, especially if used in a 3-4 defensive scheme.


Film: