The NFL Draft begins this week, with teams making their first selections of the three-day process on Thursday night. We are taking a look at some of the players who could be on the Miami Dolphins' radar as the Draft gets closer.
DeVante Parker, Wide Receiver, Louisville
Measurables:
Height: 6'3" Weight: 209 pounds Arm Length: 33-1/4" Hands: 9-1/4" 40-yd Dash: 4.45 sec Bench: 17 reps Vertical: 36.5" Broad Jump: 125.0"
Strengths: Has good size, but still can add more weight if needed. Runs crisp routes and sets up defenders with both changes in speed and sharp cuts. Plays extremely smart, working his way into positions to help his quarterback on broken plays. Can deal with physical play from cornerbacks, without breaking concentration on the ball, and uses his size and ability to transition from horizontal to vertical to high point the ball. Large catch radius, and is best when he has to stretch for the ball. Has awareness of the deep ball and adjusts to the ball.
Weaknesses: Has good hands, but does not always use them, allowing ball to get into his body. Does not necessarily drop the ball, but could get more out of the play if he catches with his hands. Injuries will be a concern until he can prove his durability.
Overall: Is listed as one of the top receivers in a deep field for a reason. Parker missed six games in 2014, but still finished the year with 855 receiving yards and five touchdowns; the foot surgery that started him on the sideline appears to be fully healed, but his overall durability might be the biggest concern he has. Parker is absolutely worthy of the Dolphins' 14th overall selection, and there are few players who, if on the board with Parker, could be considered an option instead of the Louisville receiver.