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It's hard to beat a three-touchdown, 139-yard performance to cap a college career. After a breakout effort in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, Rashad Ross will try build on his success with the Tennessee Titans after signing an undrafted free agent contract this weekend.
College Career: Though he was never the top receiving threat for the Sun Devils, Rashad Ross brought an element to the offense that Arizona State desperately needed.
Ross' blazing speed kept opposing defenses in check and helped the Sun Devils stretch the field during his two seasons in Tempe.
After transferring from Butte College, Ross saw significant playing time during his junior season and finished the year with 18 catches for 254 yards.
Last season, Ross started every game for Arizona State and caught 37 passes for 610 yards. He also made an impact on special teams and helped the Sun Devils break open the Colorado game with a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to start the second half.
Though he struggled with consistency, Ross redeemed himself in the eyes of Sun Devil fans with a monster game against Navy in his final collegiate appearance.
Skill Set: It's no secret that Ross appeals to the Titans as a one-dimensional player on offense. If Ross wants to stick with the team, his speed will have to play a pivotal role.
Ross' 4.37 40-yard dash time is eye-popping to say the least, but he'll have to grow accustomed to running routes in traffic and improve his ball skills to earn a job this fall.
The Titans took a flier on Ross because he really came into his own in the latter half of his senior season. If Ross can maintain his consistency and reduce his dropped passes, there's a good chance he can find a place in the NFL because his speed is something that can't be taught.
Furthermore, teams are more willing to give undrafted free agents longer looks if they can provide special teams depth. The Titans were in the middle of the pack with 23.6 yards per kick return last season, so adding a guy like Ross can't hurt.
Why He Fits: The Titans receiving corps are loaded with proven veterans, but the team lacks breakaway speed. Kenny Britt, Kendall Wright and Nate Washington are proven commodities, but Washington's age indicates he's due for a decline in production.
Adding a veteran like Kevin Walter in free agency helps this team with depth, but it doesn't address the speed issue. That's why the Titans brass selected Justin Hunter out of Tennessee in the second round. Hunter's 4.44 40-speed is excellent, and would provide value right away.
However, Hunter has a history of injuries, and in the event this team needs a plan-B, Rashad Ross can be a serviceable replacement. Though it's unlikely that Ross is in the long term plans in Tennessee, he could find a niche role and prove to be a wise pickup.