The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected Houston WR Demarcus Ayers in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Ayers was regarded as one of the top return threats in this year’s draft. For Pittsburgh, that’s an obvious need, especially as a kick returner.
He served as the team’s punt returner last season, averaging over 10.5 yards per punt on 28 returns, including one for a touchdown. He had been the Cougars’ kick returner the two previous seasons, averaging over 22 yards per kick with one score.
As a receiver, he caught 97 passes for 1221 yards and six touchdowns last year. He also carried the ball 26 times.
Weighing in at 5’9/3, 182 pounds, he ran poorly at the Combine, turning in a 4.72 and a 1.63 ten split. He was unable to improve that very much at his Pro Day with a 4.69, according to NFL Draft Scout. He broad jump did show explosion, leaping 10’3″ at the Combine and 10’0″ at his Pro Day.
Look for a report on him in the coming days.
