Scouting Report
Approved · Aug 24, 2026Jacob McDonald
Overall grade
- 0-49Undetermined
- 50-59D-III / Dev
- 60-69D-II / NAIA
- 70-74FCS
- 75-84Group of 5
- 85-89Power 4
- 90-94Blue Chip
- 95-100Elite / Top 100
Dynamic pass catcher in the 2028 cycle, whose age could technically put him in the 2027 class, who wins with top-end speed, ball tracking, and natural hands. Has verified size in March 2026, standing right at 5-foot-11, 177 pounds with a below-average wingspan that matches his height. Nearly filled out leaner-athletic build that can most likely allow him to reach 190-195 pounds comfortably without sacrificing his athletic ability. Athleticism is extremely impressive; tested well in the spring camp setting and on the track. Ran a laser-verified 4.52 40-yard dash paired with a 4.32 shuttle. Also jumped nearly 30 inches in…
Top Attributes
- Vertical threat and natural ball tracking downfield - Explosive and dynamic ability with the ball in his hands - Hands catching and ability to attack the football away from his body - Overall movement skills and burst
Areas to Develop
- Limited growth potential from a physical standpoint - Lacks ideal length to match up against longer defenders - Need to see him utilize his suddenness more effectively when separating at the top of his routes - Capped ceiling as a blocker due to size and strength
Film Review Notes
2028 wide receiver prospect that should technically be a 2027 prospect (April 2009 birthday). Verified size at nearly 5-foot-11, 177 pounds with a below-average wingspan matching his height as of March 2026. Very impressive testing, especially for a 2028, running a laser-verified 4.52 40-yard dash and 4.32 shuttle with a nearly 30-inch vertical and over a 10-foot broad jump. Speed and explosive ability translate to the track as well. Has personal bests of 7.09 in the 60m, 10.99 in the 100m, and 22.87 in the 200m. Top-end speed allows him to take the top off of defenses consistently, paired with his ball tracking, and he's a legitimate weapon downfield. Strong hands and attacks the ball very well despite his stature. Even though he lacks length, he can go up and win 50-50 balls and contested catches. Strong runner after the catch; he's elusive in the open field and finishes runs. Would like to see more suddenness and sharpness in his routes. Clearly possesses the burst and explosive ability; he just looks like he's running one speed when working to separate from defenders. Needs to continue working on shifting gears and getting out of his breaks more violently. Lacks growth potential; close to his physical ceiling but can continue to get more explosive and fluid athletically.
Graded Skills
0–10 Scale
- 7.4Size
- 8.6Burst / Acceleration
- 8.4Top-end Speed
- 8.8Ball Skills
- 7.8Contested Catch
- 7.4Catch Radius
- 8.1Route Running
- 8.4Run After Catch
- 8.7Vertical Threat
- 7Blocking
