2024 NFL Draft: Small-School Prospects Who Could Rise Up Draft Boards This Offseason | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors
Mia Lopez The reigning national champions, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, have won 27 straight games. They're helped by the fact multiple future NFL players are currently on the roster. It helps when two of those are twins who happen to be 6'3" wide receivers.
At the program's heart, South Dakota State wants to run the football. But weapons at multiple positions other than running back certainly make them more difficult to defend, hence a chance at back-to-back titles.
Jadon Jahnke holds a slight edge over his brother based on on him being a somewhat twitchier athlete.
"Jadon Jahnke is a vertical presence first and foremost," Klassen said. "At 6'3" and 210 pounds, Jahnke rolls off the line of scrimmage and picks up plenty of speed with each of his long-legged strides. He's not the cleanest or most explosive route-runner yet, but the speed and size are enough to get it done at the FCS level.
"Additionally, Jahnke's long arms help him adjust to errant throws, which is a nice little tool to have."
Interestingly, Jaxon Jahnke had better receiving numbers a year ago, though his brother averaged more yards per catch. This season has been a different story.
A near-perfect 50-50 split can be seen in overall production. Jadon Jahnke has one more catch for 10 more yards going into the FCS semifinals. Jadon does have three more touchdown receptions. He has shown consistent improvement each year.
Jaxon Jahnke has been the more reliable option over the last three seasons.
"South Dakota State uses him as its traditional X-receiver," Klassen said. "He does not have a lot of juice, but he makes up for it elsewhere. Jahnke brings quickness, plenty of physicality and a long frame that helps him win the ball in contested situations. Additionally, Jahnke shows moments of ability to handle press coverage and fight through tight coverage."
Both will get looks from pro personnel.
Jadon Jahnke's Ideal Fit: Houston Texans
Jaxon Jahnke's Ideal Fit: New York Giants