Player Profile: WR Fields from Notre Dame
Basic Information
Position: Wide Receiver (WR)
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 218 pounds
Class/Age: RS Senior, 22
Team: Notre Dame
2025 Stats (12 games)
- Receptions: 36
- Receiving Yards: 630 (17.5 YPC)
- Touchdowns: 5
- Contested Catches: 11 (48%)
- Yards After Catch (YAC): 192
- Drops: 1
Positives
Fields presents a profile that can only be described as a physical marvel. Standing at 6’4" and weighing 218 pounds, he combines size with athleticism that is hard to overlook. His performance in testing situations speaks volumes; with a 40-yard dash time of 4.42 seconds, a remarkable 4.18-second shuttle, and a 6.81-second three-cone drill, he ranks in the top 2% of athletes ever tracked. His 38-inch vertical leap and a broad jump of 10 feet 7.5 inches further showcase his explosiveness. GPS tracking reported him hitting a staggering 22.7 mph, underscoring his top-tier athletic capabilities.
During his collegiate career, Fields amassed impressive statistics, with a total of 165 receptions for 2,486 yards and 16 touchdowns over five seasons. His ability to make contested catches is particularly noteworthy; he logged 35 such catches and only 10 drops, highlighting his strong hands and determination at the catch point. Fields thrives at the line of scrimmage (LOS), displaying both physicality and finesse, and he consistently remains engaged throughout his routes.
One of his standout traits is his instinctual understanding of the game; as a former quarterback, he demonstrates a nuanced comprehension of coverages and leverage. This allows him to utilize head fakes and hand movements to create separation, leveraging his size and speed effectively. His route running is polished, featuring a well-rounded release package that includes various techniques to break free from defensive backs.
After the catch, he transforms into a formidable runner, adept at gaining extra yards despite tight coverage. Fields is not just a passive receiver; he actively seeks contact and shows a willingness to block, asserting his dominance on the field.
Weaknesses
Despite his immense potential, Fields has areas that require refinement before stepping onto the NFL stage. One notable concern is his long-reach speed. While he can reach top speed downfield, he struggles to explode within the initial 10-15 yards of a route. This slower start can hinder his immediate separation from cornerbacks at the NFL level, especially in a league renowned for its accelerated cadence.
His blocking technique also leaves room for improvement. Limited experience at WR means he sometimes lacks the precision needed in this area, though his size does grant him potential in this regard. While he has demonstrated proficiency in strong routes, the diversity of his route tree could also benefit from further development. Although he has shown an ability to learn quickly, the need to consistently avoid rounding off routes remains apparent.
In contested catch situations, while he has excelled, a success rate of around 50% raises eyebrows given his physical attributes. Facing bigger cornerbacks can occasionally pose challenges for him, limiting his effectiveness in breaking free from defenders. Additionally, his performance on special teams has been generic at best, offering sporadic glimpses of promise but lacking consistency.
Grade and Pro Comparison
Grade: 2.88 – Late 2nd Round
Pro Comparison: Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos)
Fields stands as a prospect brimming with potential yet needing to polish his game. While his speed may be considered below average for the NFL, it’s crucial to remember that his overall athletic ability is impressive for his size. He possesses technical skills and the instincts necessary to evolve as a receiver. As he transitions to the NFL, refining his route tree and enhancing blocking techniques will be pivotal in unlocking his full potential.
With the Las Vegas Raiders having drafted two receivers in 2025—Jack Bech and Dont’e Thornton—Fields could end up as a significant contributor right away. His capacity to excel in back shoulder situations aligns perfectly with the team’s strategy as they seek to develop a multi-dimensional receiving corps. Expect Fields to make waves in the NFL, showcasing the skills honed over years at a competitive program like Notre Dame.