WR Jared Karstetter (Washington State) - Undrafted Free Agent
The Detroit Lions have put a pretty big emphasis on adding players this offseason to compete for the fifth spot at wide receiver. In addition to drafting Ryan Broyles and signing Lance Long, the Lions also signed four undrafted free agents who play wide receiver. One of them is Washington State's Jared Karstetter, who got a deal done the day the draft came to a close.
Experts' Opinions
A savvy, well-built receiver. Isn't real explosive off the line even from his low, track like stance, but does do a nice job stemming his route and not advertising his breaks early. Isn't a threat to quickly get on top of defenders and run by anyone vertically. However, he does a nice job getting into the body of the corner, giving himself additional grass along the sideline and adjusting to the football on the fade. Possesses impressive awareness, quickly snapping his head around and using his coordination to make a play on the throw. Is also a "plus" vertical route runner as he sets up his routes well and is clean out of his breaks. Routinely is able to use his subtle head fakes to get defenders off balance and work his body between the ball and defender on the post/slant. Doesn't generate much burst out of his breaks and isn't ever going to separate routinely at the next level. However, he has the hands to consistently pluck off his frame and secure the catch.
Positives: Well-sized possession receiver who is best in underneath coverage. Effectively uses his hands to get off jams, consistently finds the open space in the defense or comes back to the ball out of breaks. Nicely adjusts and extends to make the reception away from his frame. Consistent hand catcher. Battles hard to make the reception. Gives effort blocking.
Negatives: One-speed receiver who gets minimal separation off the line of scrimmage or down the field. Minimal quickness in his game.
Stats
2008: 6 catches, 90 yards
2009: 38 catches, 540 yards, 6 TD
2010: 62 catches, 658 yards, 7 TD
2011: 60 catches, 700 yards, 6 TD
Videos
Outlook for 2012
Like the other UDFA wide receivers, Karstetter will compete for the fifth spot at the position in training camp. He will have to show he can catch the ball, but perhaps just as importantly, he will have to show he can contribute on special teams if he wants a legitimate shot at making the team.
More scouting reports: Riley Reiff, Ryan Broyles, Dwight "Bill" Bentley, Ronnell Lewis, Tahir Whitehead, Chris Greenwood, Jonte Green, Travis Lewis, Kellen Moore, Stephfon Green, Troy Burrell, Patrick Edwards
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