First name is pronounced “day-ZHON.” Considered himself a basketball player at Dallas Skyline High, where he played only two seasons of football (as freshman and as senior). Appeared in nine games as a true freshman in a backup receiver role in 2008, catching three passes for 38 yards (12.7-yard average) and one touchdown. Saw action in all 13 games, making six starts, in ’09, grabbing 17-311-0 (18.3). Caught all of his passes in the last five weeks after Denver Broncos 2010 third-rounder Eric Decker was injured. Was the team’s leading receiver in ’10 after posting 48-750-10 (15.6) in 12 starts. Missed time during ’11 spring practice with a strained left knee. Started all 12 games in the fall and hauled in team-best 51-760-4 (14.9). Only one career fumble.

Very good size — athletic frame with long arms. Fluid stride. Displays urgency off the line. Good balance and body control. Stems his routes and sets up defenders. Catches easily. High-points throws and has outstanding leaping ability. Good field awareness. Works to stalk. Has special-teams experience as a jammer. Is tough and will play hurt.

Average speed and suddenness — monotone mover. Could improve release technique. Lacks elite top-end speed to separate deep. Rounds out some breaks. Lacks twitch at the top of his stems to separate. Shows visible frustration on the field. Could require patience learning a complex playbook. Needs to learn how to strengthen and condition his body like a pro (fast food was reportedly a diet staple). 

A high school hoopster with nice ball skills who is more fluid than fast or sudden, McKnight’s production was suppressed in a poor offense. However, he shows the hands, athletic ability, toughness and special-teams ability to warrant an opportunity. Will have to earn his keep making contested grabs and in the red zone.