Chargers Draft Scouting: Rutgers WR KJ Duff

Rutgers wide receiver KJ Duff continues to dominate in 2026 with another impressive performance in week seven against Maryland. Duff’s prowess in contested catch situations, surprising movement skills, and elite hands make him a premier prospect in the 2027 NFL Draft. He’s an enticing target for the Los Angeles Chargers and would give Justin Herbert a reliable weapon. 

Duff, the six-foot-six, 225-pound junior, had nine receptions for 113 yards and two touchdowns against the Terrapins. This is his fourth 100+ yard showing and third with multiple touchdowns. He’s a rare bright spot in Rutgers’ offense and carried them to victory on Saturday.

This isn’t new for Duff. The former four-star recruit surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in 2025, earning a second-team All-Big 10 selection. Now, he’s making the jump to stardom and is skyrocketing up draft boards.

Duff’s unguardable in one-on-one situations. His frame gives him the instant advantage, but his elite athleticism seals it. He expertly highpoints the ball, not allowing the defender to reach it, before using his unflappable hands to reel it in. 

The play is over once the ball touches Duff’s fingertips, even if it’s just one hand. He has an uncanny ability to secure off-body catches and isn’t shaken by contact. He’s a quarterback’s best friend under duress, being a reliable target to throw a prayer to.

Beyond this, Duff's surprisingly agile for his size. He’s not a burner, but he’s smooth and is flexible. He pairs this with an elite IQ, helping him find soft spots against zone coverage and stem defenders to create separation.

The main issue for Duff is his route running. As with any massive receiver, he’s not a route artist and won’t create consistent separation. As mentioned, he’s better than average for the archetype, but still not amazing. He must continue proving that he’s not a one-trick pony and doesn’t rely solely on his contested catch prowess.

Despite this, Duff is an attractive option for the Chargers in April. Justin Herbert lacks reliable weapons currently. Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Tre Harris have potential, but they can't stay healthy or consistently produce productive games. Because of this, Herbert’s left stranded with no explosive weapon to target. It’s pivotal that this problem doesn’t persist in 2027.

Fortunately for them, an elite class of receivers awaits in the draft. It’s still early, but KJ Duff is already an intriguing option who could instantly elevate the Chargers' offense.