The Jets used the last of their four picks in the 2007 NFL Draft to add depth to the receiving corps and return game, drafting Clemson WR Chansi Stuckey in the seventh round on Sunday. An extremely versatile player, Stuckey is an ideal fit for the Jets' complex offensive system... provided he stays healthy.
Stuckey, a fifth-year senior, played a variety of positions for Clemson over the past four years after red-shirting his freshman season in 2002. During his time at Clemson Stucki saw action at wide receiver, punt returner, kick returner, and even quarterback as a back-up for QB Charlie Whitehurst. He also has some experience coming out of the backfield, toting a 5.7 YPC average on 40 career carries.
While he has the position flexibility that Head Coach Eric Mangini loves in his players, Stuckey will most likely be limited to the roles of wide-out and punt returner. Given his small stature (5-11, 197) and the role he will likely play on the Jets, the comparisons to veteran WR Tim Dwight are inevitable. Stuckey is an extremely raw player, however, and most likely will need two to three years to develop fully.
Unfortunately, size and position are not the only similarities between Stuckey and Dwight. Much like his veteran counterpart, Stuckey has been prone to injuries throughout his career at Clemson. In fact, last year both Stuckey and Dwight were sidelined for a portion of their team's seasons with a broken foot. Stuckey was injured early in the season, however, and managed to successfully come back and complete his senior season.
As for his success at quarterback in college, Stuckey actually posted decent numbers in his one opportunity to play in place of Whitehurst, completing 11 of 21 passes including two for touchdowns.
