[Couch-Potato]

Originally Posted by Couch-Potato

I'm starting to believe we've got Coleman and Franklin flipped, or at least the league does. Seems like the pros expect Coleman will go #4 and Franklin #5 or #6 WR off the board. I can't quite figure it out, but scouts and draft heads just aren't quite as high on Franklin as we are yet and despite the lack of production routinely take Coleman over Franklin, and even occasionally have him taken in the top 15. Must be his frame, athletic traits, and youth?

I heard Coleman compared to Mike Evans today and thought hmmmmm, isn't that who most of CP has been clambering for all year? You know, that guy with 10 consecutive 1k yard seasons. Turns out he had question marks around his separation coming out of college too.

Their scouting reports sound pretty similar:

Spoiler!

Mike Evans Draft Profile:

Overview

A prep hoopster with shooting-guard size, Evans combined with Johnny Manziel to form one of the most dominant quarterback-receiver connections in the nation the last two seasons. He’s a big, physical, strong-handed, West Coast possession receiver with playmaking ability who projects as a No. 2 in the pros where he will make his money as a chain mover and red-zone target.

Strengths

Outstanding size and length
Functionally strong to power through the jam
Boxes out defenders and is a big red-zone target
Hardwood background is evident -- outstanding leaper with "above-the-rim" skills to go over top of smaller DBs and highpoint throws
Creates late, subtle separation
Tracks and adjusts
Makes contested grabs -- attacks throws and outmuscles defenders in a crowd
Nearly unstoppable executing back-shoulder catches
Strong, reliable hands
Very strong after the catch -- slams into tacklers, is a load to bring down and leans for extra yardage
Productive playmaker -- averaged 20 yards per catch in 2013 and showed up in big games (18-566-5 vs
Alabama and Auburn)
Good blocker
Physically dominant and tough
Will be a 21-year-old rookie

Weaknesses

Monotone mover with pedestrian speed -- cannot separate vertically or pull away from the pack
Unsudden acceleration
Stiff hips
Will have to make a living in traffic at the next level -- will struggle to separate vs
quick-twitch NFL cornerbacks
Did not run a full route tree and could require patience learning the nuances of refined route running
Backyard element to his college success -- must become savvier instead of depending on superior size and improvisational production
Can be hotheaded and lose control of his emotions
Basketball was first love


Keon Coleman's Draft Profile:

Overview

Keon Coleman has positioned himself prominently as one of the top WRs in the 2024 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 215 pounds, he boasts a formidable physical presence on the field. His catch mechanics, characterized by an ability to naturally box out defenders and that "alpha" catch-point instinct, set him apart. While his raw athleticism is a sight to behold, Coleman's route running shows areas for growth, notably in footwork. His athletic burst hints at an untapped potential, waiting to be refined and fully realized in the professional league.

Given his blend of raw talent and exhibited skills, many scouts see him as a valuable pick, though he's currently projected to be taken in the 2nd or 3rd [*Bottom of 1st early 2nd] round. This positioning might reflect the few areas he needs to polish, but it also speaks to the depth of talent in the draft.

SCOUTING REPORT: STRENGTHS

Prototype physicality: boasts elite size, frame density, and compact mass; prime athletic build for an NFL WR.
Outstanding acceleration combined with exceptional foot speed and lateral twitch, especially considering his build.
Superb at manipulating DB blind spots; employs efficient diamond releases and robust hand techniques to separate.
Impressive ball skills: pairs elite timing and body control with remarkable strength at the catch point.
Transcendent aerial adjustments: showcases gravity-defying contortions and consistently extends beyond his frame to secure catches.
Threat after the catch: blends explosive agility, contact balance, and physicality to elude and overpower defensive backs.
Distinguished for his proactive alpha mentality; adept at contested catches thanks to a combination of instincts and sheer hand strength.
Multifaceted athlete: showcased his versatility playing basketball under Tom Izzo; brings that multi-sport dynamism to the gridiron.
[*will be 21 years old]

SCOUTING REPORT: WEAKNESSES

Limited sharpness in routes: occasionally lacks the burst and crispness on angled route breaks, affecting his separation from defenders.
Inconsistent run-blocking intensity: despite his physical prowess, needs to bring more aggression and tenacity to his blocking assignments.
Acceleration concerns: might struggle with elite long speed, making it challenging to consistently outpace boundary DBs in deep ball situations.
Technique refinements needed: can improve on his footwork, hip flexibility, and contact balance for more consistent and effective playmaking.