Aaron Kelly

After two seasons as a possession receiver (averaging 38 catches for 465 yards and three touchdowns), Kelly exploded onto the scene as a junior, leading the ACC with 11 touchdown receptions and 83.2 receiving yards per game. But his 10.8-yard average on 67 catches as a senior is not what scouts expect of first-day prospects. The relative lack of success of Clemson receivers in the NFL is another strike against him. As a secondary threat to an explosive primary option, Kelly could serve in a similar capacity at the next level as Alvin Harper once served for the Dallas Cowboys.

positives

Rare height. Uses his size to shield defenders from the ball effectively, especially on quick slants. Good leaping ability and can time his leaps well to defeat defenders in good position to make a play on the ball. Flashes good agility and elusiveness for a player of his height. Can make defenders miss in the open field and generate positive yardage after the catch. Generally reliable hands. Can stretch to make the dramatic catch outside of his frame. Experienced as a punt and kick returner.

negatives

Long-strider with build-up speed and agility. Not quick enough to make defenders miss in small areas. Not as physically dominant as his size would indicate. Too often allows ball to get into his chest, resulting in some drops. Can get alligator arms when he thinks he's going to take a hit. May have been the fortunate recipient of defenses focusing their attention on stopping Clemson's ground game.

Had 55 catches for 955 yards and 17 scores as a senior at Walton High

averaged 19 yards on punt returns and had 1,591 all-purpose yards as a senior

lettered three times in football and twice in basketball

AAAAA First-Team All-State as a senior

first-team All-Cobb County

Cobb County Player-of-the-Year by the Cobb County Touchdown Club and Marietta Daily Journal

his team had an 11-1 record and won the region title; the team ended the regular season 10-0, its first undefeated regular season in history

coached by Ed Dudley

chose Clemson over Duke, N.C. State, and Wake Forest.

Born Aaron Galen Kelly on Apr. 2, 1986

majoring in management.