2019 NFL Draft: Deebo Samuel one of draft’s best route runners

Teams looking for a highly competitive athlete with tremendous route running skills should look no further than Deebo Samuel in the NFL Draft.

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel was an absolute star for South Carolina in 2018 and now he looks to bring his talent to the next level. While he is not one of those guys that screams automatic all-pro, he has high potential to have a very successful career at the next level.

Despite his struggles with injuries as an underclassman, Samuel put it altogether his redshirt senior season last year, playing in all 12 of the Gamecock’s regular season games. He lead the Gamecocks in receptions (62) and total yards from scrimmage (908), while hauling in 11 touchdown receptions. South Carolina also frequently used him as a kickoff return man, where Samuel found the end zone four times on 42 attempts during his collegiate career.

Last season, Samuel earned first team all-SEC honors being an all-purpose player and second team all-SEC receiver. He skipped the Gamecock’s bowl game to focus his efforts on the NFL Draft.

Strengths

Samuel has superior route running skills. Along with his route running, he has great vision and is smart with the football. He can see plays develop similar to a running back.

Samuel is not afraid to tough it out and fight for the ball. He won’t shy away from contact. He is strong, scrappy and loves to fight through tackles. In 2018 of his 882 receiving yards, 592 came after the catch. Finally, his versatility is a tremendous strength. His kick returning ability will be a great addition to any team.

Weaknesses

Samuel’s injuries from early in his career are a red flag, although they certainly should not drop him from a team’s board. But it does bring into question his durability. Last year was his only full season while at South Carolina as he dealt with hamstring issues along with a broken leg that cost him most of the 2017 season.

Samuel is also not the best of blockers and his technique is sloppy at times. He should work hard at the next level to improve his blocking technique. He also lacks top-end speed and is not the biggest deep threat.

Draft expectations

This year’s draft class is incredibly loaded with talent. Nevertheless, Samuel has too much upside to far too far down draft boards. He brings his excellent route running, toughness and smart vision. Many teams will project him into the slot which would be a fine fit for Samuel. He is certainly not afraid to go across the middle to make receptions. His versatility as a special teams player will earn him bonus points. He is a Day 2 pick, but expect him to be selected in the top 15 picks of the second round.

Projection: Early Second Round