ESPN expert believes Makai Lemon's blocking ability sets him apart

Receivers are most known for doing work in the passing game and catching touchdowns. The elite receivers and those who make the biggest impact are not afraid to get their hands dirty. Makai Lemon of USC fits that mold as a receiver who can be elite in a heavy passing or running offense.

In a unique breakdown of prospects and their skill sets, ESPN's Matt Bowen lists Trojan receiver Makai Lemon as the best perimeter blocking receiver. Here is what Bowen had to say about Lemon:

"Lemon plays with an NFL mentality as a run blocker, and he's willing to mix it up between the numbers versus safeties and linebackers. Lemon didn't have a blown block on 274 blocking reps in 2025."

Makai Lemon, even at his size, understands the importance of winning with physicality and being able to set the tone. His physicality is not just felt in his ability to force missed tackles and get yards after the catch; it is also there in finishing blocks. Those exact traits make him a big culture guy for the potential organization he will reside in for the bulk of his career. This is what makes a player stand out the most, and it is why he is so attractive to a team like the Los Angeles Rams. A team that has its receivers winning and finishing their blocks is a winning football team.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC's Makai Lemon listed as best perimeter blocker at his position