Wide receiver is one of the strongest position units going into the 2020 season for the Panthers. D.J. Moore is emerging as a true No. 1 option, Curtis Samuel has shown flashes and is still only 24 years old and the team signed deep threat Robby Anderson in the offseason. This group is arguably one of the top trios of wide receivers in the league and provides incredible speed on the outside and from the slot.
One would think that wide receiver should be the least of Carolina’s concerns in the 2021 NFL Draft, but with Curtis Samuel’s contract expiring at the end of the season, questions arise about who can step up if Samuel walks in free agency. Let’s take a look at Ja’Marr Chase and other top pass catchers in the 2021 class, who can potentially replace Samuel.
Profile:
Six-foot, 210 pounds
Projected 40 yard dash: 4.40 seconds
After his true sophomore season, Chase has already won the Biletnikoff Award (NCAA’s best receiver), been voted unanimous All-American and holds the record for most receiving yards and touchdowns in a single season in the SEC.
Chase possesses so many elite traits that it is truly difficult to find a knock on his game. He displays tremendous route running, impeccable body control and high-pointing ability, and tops it off with track-like speed. Chase, unlike most receivers coming out of college, has a wonderfully built frame that allows him to be strong at the catch point and bully defensive backs on his way up for the ball. He also is fantastic after the catch and with the ball in his hands, as he was able to turn slant routes into 50 yard touchdowns consistently in 2019.
Highlights
Chase vs. Vanderbilt
Chase vs. Texas
Chase vs. Alabama
Chase vs. Clemson
How he compares:
As it stands now, Chase is the undoubted WR1 in the 2021 draft class. There are faster receivers like Alabama’s Jaylen Waddle and bigger receivers like LSU’s Terrace Marshall, but Chase is the alpha dog. He can line up on the outside and break press with ease, line up in the slot and convert short yardages with his elite route running and beat man coverage deep with his speed. He is hands-down the best all around receiver and will make an immediate impact come Week 1. Sitting out his Junior year to prepare for the draft should have no affect on his stock as long as he performs reasonably well at his pro day and the combine.
[lawrence-related id=628282]
[vertical-gallery id=628122]