From now until the 2020 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to showcase as many prospects as possible and examine both their strengths and weaknesses. Most of these profiles will feature individuals that the Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to have an interest in, while a few others will be top-ranked players. If there is a player you would like us to analyze, let us know in the comments below.
#5 Denzel Mims/WR Baylor – 6’3 215
The Good
– Monster frame, fills it out well, “get off the bus first” type of intimidating body type
– Elite “above the rim” player, routinely catches tough throws over his head or outside his frame, makes the tough plays look easy and consistently produces highlight-reel moments
– Strong hands, always plucks the ball away from his body, finds and adjusts the ball as well as you could hope for
– Attacks the ball at its highest point, wins 50/50 balls at absurd rate
– Great body control and ability to contort to the throw, big-time threat on back shoulder throws
– Takes pride in run blocking, shows impressive effort and strain to block through the whistle, doesn’t take plays off and willing to be physical
– Uses size to shield and box defenders out on underneath routes (slants/curls)
– Good hand use at the line of scrimmage, technique and strength to beat press coverage and stack cornerbacks
– Doesn’t show false steps on his release and keeps his hands up at the LOS to better defeat jams
– Experience playing on both sides of the field
– Used to making sight adjustments and reading coverages
– Strong level of productivity, box score on its own shows number of big plays he made but also proved he could be a volume player in an every-down role
– Lots of starting experience
The Bad
– Build-up speed runner who won’t burn defenders, causing most catches to be contested without much separation
– Needs to maintain speed through his cut, will slow down on some routes, especially slants as he’s anticipating the football
– Predictably a bit tight-hipped and though he can do damage after the catch, wouldn’t be considered elusive
– Outside receiver who lacks slot value, “Z” type who may be a bit position limited at the next level
– Afforded lots of space given layout of his offense, will have to play in more confined spaces in NFL
– Route tree needs to be more well-rounded; slants for three step-game, curl for five-step, seven for vertical concepts
Bio
– Three-year starter
– Career: 186 receptions 2925 yards (15.