PRO 2024 Rookie Spotlight: Anthony Gould, WR Oregon State
Rookie Spotlight: Anthony Gould, Oregon State
Height: 5-8
Weight: 172
Hands: 8 3/4″
Arm: 29 1/4″
2024 Age: 24 (unverified)
40-yard dash: 4.43 (projected)
NFL Play-Style Comparison: Damiere Byrd
Draft Grade: 6th Round
Breakout Age: No Breakout
Offensive Market Share Metrics (Final Season)
Receptions: 20%
Receiving Yards: 23%
Receiving TDs: 8%
High School: West Salem (Salem, Oregon)
As a high school prospect: Class of 2019; 3-star
College Attended: Oregon State
Pros
– vast catch radius with long arms despite small stature
– 11 rush attempts and 25 punt returns over the last 3 seasons
– great adjuster at the catch point downfield
– played 90% of snaps in the slot as a sophomore, 90% out wide as a senior
– good snap and settle at the top of routes, a lot of comeback, curls and crossers
– smooth adjuster downfield on back-shoulder throws
Cons
– tight middle quarter, despite above-average long speed
– extremely small frame, likely weighs in at or around 160lbs
– ability to create YAC, but not a tackle breaker (3 Missed Tackles forced in 5 seasons)
– might lack play strength in contested situations as a pro
– longer routes need more salesmanship and detail
Scouting Notes:
In 2021, Gould played 91% of snaps in the slot for the Beavers, in 2023 that number dropped to just 7.4% with 92.6% being out wide. Although his frame is slight and Gould likely weighs in around 160lbs, his length and features are that of a player that is closer to 6′ tall, this allows him to contort at the catch point and enhance his catch radius. His attack of the football at the catch point, his demeanor on in/out breaking routes is a key in his war chest. Gould has the skill set to become a dynamic downfield threat for a given offense, while being utilized as a dynamic slot early on during his rookie campaign.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gould is going to be a later-round pick in the NFL and is likely discussed as one of a bunch of players in the 5th round of fantasy football rookie drafts. His upside is going to come as a dynamic slot receiver in an offense void of talent at the receiver position and the need of playmakers with a young quarterback. Players like Taylor Gabriel, Damiere Byrd and Josh Downs come to mind when searching for realistic expectations in the early years of Goulds career.
