
Dwain McFarland breaks down the Rookie Super Model profile of Miami (OH) wide receiver CJ Daniels.

Checking in as the WR24 in the 2026 NFL Draft class in the Rookie Super Model, CJ Daniels' profile is outlined below.
To help break down the pre-draft research, I've profiled 25 of the top wide receivers in the class with individual Prospect Profiles from their Super Model data. For the full WR class data, check out all of the wideouts in the 2026 WR Rookie Super Model.
If you're new to the model, here is an introductory breakdown of the Rookie Super Model. All of this data is integrated into our free NFL Draft Guide, full of big board rankings, mock drafts and more.
Additionally, you can find a glossary of terms and stats used in this breakdown at the bottom of the prospect profile.
Let's dive into what the model has to say about the wideout out of Miami (OH).
Daniels played his first four years at Liberty. He averaged 48 YPG in his second season with a 1.65 RYPTPA, but injuries derailed his third season. He returned in Year 4 to post his best year with a 3.50 RYPTPA and 76 YPG. He played for LSU and Miami over his final two years, with RYPTPAs of 1.07 and 1.39.
Daniels was a good player when targeted, but his late breakout and inability to replicate RYPTPA success against stronger competition create big questions about his profile.
He was a good contested-catch player with a career mark of 62% and dropped only 3% of his passes. His 4.6 YAC was -0.5 over expected after adjusting for his aDOT of 13.6 (63rd percentile).
Lance Zierlein's assessment of Daniels matched the data as a contested-catch player, noting his late-separation ability and a "deep bag of tricks" to create separation. But there are concerns about his ability to beat press coverage, his deep speed and his YAC.
Daniels' closest Super Model comps:
Bottom line: Daniels didn't break out until Year 3 despite playing easier competition. His inability to replicate that over his final two years at bigger programs isn't ideal. He is a crafty contested-catch maven. Daniels could stick on the right roster, but he isn't a big-play threat. The Rookie Super Model views Daniels as a late Day 3 pick. He is a WR6 for fantasy prospecting purposes.
