Rivals Top 100 of 2004 – #2: Theodore Ginn, Jr.

It’s hard to follow in the shadow of the #1 recruit for 2004, Adrian Peterson…especially when you’re drafted to the Miami Dolphins.

But the #2 recruit of 2004, Ted Ginn, Jr. is making a name for himself, even if his team has seen better days. Like Peterson, Ginn entered the draft in 2007, after making a name for himself at Ohio State. His college career ended on a somewhat sour note, with an injury during the 2006 BCS Championship Game, but overall, he was known for making big plays and finding opportunities.

With the Dolphins, he’s showed spirit, even after becoming their controversial first-round pick. Although many believed that Ginn should go early in the draft due to his incredible speed, most expected the Dolphins to choose quarterback Brady Quinn. Fans actually booed the announcement when Ginn was chosen.

The start of the 2007 season was slow for Ginn, but he did pick up a bit of momentum and really put up some incredible numbers against the Eagles in mid-November. He set a career high with four receptions for 52 yards, and, more importantly, returned a punt 87 yards for a touchdown, the longest in the franchise’s history. He won the Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Week for that game, and was chosen as this year’s 3rd alternate for the 2007 Pro Bowl – a feat in my opinion, considering the stink-ousity of Miami.

So, he’s doing OK for himself. If the Dolphins rebuild or he is traded to another team, I think he’ll have a real chance to shine, barring any injuries. Entering the draft early has served him well.

For more “Where Are They Nows” of the 2004 recruiting season, check out THIS POST.