The Atlanta Falcons could take a wide receiver as high as No. 4 overall in Ja’Marr Chase, despite him sitting out the 2020 season. Chase comes off as the perfect receiver to complement Calvin Ridley long term and replace Julio Jones when Jones wants to retire. He’s got that same physicality Jones has but the speed to destroy a defense too.
WR Ja’Marr Chase, Louisiana State University
6-foot-1, 200 pounds
Stats and Awards
2020: Sat out the 2020 season due to the COVID19 pandemic
2019: 14 Games Played, 84 Catches, 1,780 Yards, 20 Touchdowns, 1 Carry, 5 Yards, 1 Tackle, All-American, National Champion, Biletnikoff Award Winner, First-team All-SEC
2018: 13 Games Played, 23 Catches, Yards, 3 Touchdowns
Highlights: Vs. Alabama
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv6mus7yasc
Strengths
Ja’Marr Chase’s best attributes are his route running and football intelligence. His understanding of concepts and exceptionally precise routes make him elite when it comes to getting separation. This shows up at the line when he’s trying to release off the press. It also shows up with his hands and how he attacks the football to snatch it out of the air.
He can align anywhere on the field and plays well no matter which side he’s on. His play from the slot makes him especially useful for an NFL team because of his willingness to go over the middle. Chase is unafraid to take a hit, and his ability to take it to the house after the catch comes from his shiftiness and vision while he’s got the ball in his hands.
Most wide receivers aren’t super interested in blocking and have poor technique. That doesn’t apply to Chase, though. He takes great angles and attacks defenders in his blocking paths. He understands how to set the edge of the rushing play and is one of the most physical players on the ball. His blocking has drawn comparisons to Roddy White.
Weaknesses
This isn’t as much of a weakness as it is a limitation. Chase has excellent athleticism, but he isn’t a top one-percent athlete. He’s going to likely run a 4.45 and have solid agility scores. He makes his living off of intelligent play and not raw athletic talent. He’s a football player with the athleticism of a top wide receiver, but isn’t a top athlete at his position.
Leadership
Not much is known about Chase off the field. He’s definitely someone who stays out of trouble, but he’s also not profiled as a captain or a leader. Ideally, he’s someone who can soak in the lessons of his teammates, and his willingness as a blocker is what will show through in the weight room. Guys who block are also normally guys who lift.
Overview
NFL Stylistic Comparison/Best Case Scenario: De’Andre Hopkins
The best receiver in the league is arguably De’Andre Hopkins. He’s not the best athlete at the position, but he’s faster than average, bigger than average and stronger than average. He’s also one of the smartest receivers in the league who can win with his route running, exceptional catching and overall will to win. That’s why Chase compares best to him.
How Chase would fit into the Falcons’ plans
If the Falcons want Ja’Marr Chase, they’re going to have to take him at No. 4 overall. He’s not going to last much past that, as it’d be shocking to see the Bengals pass on him. Chase is a great fit for the Falcons’ offense and would play a similar role to what A.J. Brown did in Tennessee.
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