Draft Analysis: Isaac TeSlaa
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 214 lbs.
- College: Arkansas
- Tape watched: LSU, Ole Miss, Texas A&M
- NFL Comparison: Alec Pierce
Pros
- Hands
With 0 drops in his college career, Isaac TeSlaa can be considered one of the most reliable targets in the draft. His large frame and strength at the catch point are proven through his 54% career contested catch conversion rate.
- Athleticism
The NFL.com #1 combine ranking for 2025, TeSlaa is in the 74th percentile in history for receivers in every measurable besides wingspan (51st) and arm length (27th). In terms of Relative Athletic Score per Kent Lee Platte at Ras.football, TeSlaa ranks 11th out of 3,441 receivers from 1987 to 2025. His traits are special, and the NFL will likely move his name up their boards as a result.
- Blocking
TeSlaa has very promising tape with his attentiveness to blocking. His size and strength are noticeable, and Arkansas planned accordingly by using TeSlaa to pick up linebackers in the run/screen game.
Midline
- Route Running
TeSlaa shines in the middle of the field at all three levels of the defense. He is not afraid of contact and defensive traffic does not shift his focus. TeSlaa climbs his route stems with aggression and pace.
Where TeSlaa becomes limited is his change of direction. Working in and out of route breaks can look slow and lumbering for the stiff-hipped TeSlaa. He is best rounding his routes to maintain momentum. His speed is more of a buildup, so his deep threat presence on the sidelines may be limited.
- Release
With a 79% slot rate in 2024, TeSlaa faced few press opportunities. With his clean releases, he has powerful strides that climb his route stems. He uses his hands to fight early route contact and uses his body to protect his lines.
Cons
- Experience
With only 25 career games and 100 targets, the 23-year-old TeSlaa’s age does not match his game experience. TeSlaa has just two career 100-yard games under his belt, with only two touchdowns against power 4 conference teams.
- Ball Security
Two fumbles in two years is less than ideal for a receiver, especially one with only 62 opportunities with the football.
- Separation
Stiff hips and average burst in short space, TeSlaa relies on his speed buildup and football IQ to find open space. He does well with zone coverage but can struggle mightily to escape close man coverage. TeSlaa’s poor 1.98 Y/RR in 2024 can be blamed on a bad Arkansas offense mixed with his lack of early separation.
Overview
TeSlaa projects as a potentially reliable target, especially over the middle of the field with strong hands and blocking skills. He can project as a potential 3rd or 4th receiver with big-slot versatility.
However, teams will need to consider his limited experience, occasional ball security issues, and struggles with sudden changes of direction and consistent separation against man coverage when evaluating his draft potential.