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NFL Draft Prospect Highlight: Donte Moncrief, WR, Ole Miss

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via cdn2.sbnation.com


One of the quieter names here on BTSC, Donte Moncrief is one of the more underrated WRs in a deep class in 2014. As far as my personal opinion on him goes: when I watch him on tape, the first thing that jumps off the screen is how long and lanky his legs are. They give him a lot of spring in step when he jumps and he has very fluid hips because of it. Some have called his route running into question, but he knows how to get separation quickly and can make the tough catch in traffic. He has also been featured on short screens and can make a lot of YAC despite his lack of elite speed.

CBSSports' Analysis of Moncrief

STRENGTHS: Moncrief's thick frame, deceptive speed and smooth route-running make him a nightmare for cornerbacks. He does not possess the explosive moves of Southern Cal's Marqise Lee or Clemson's Sammy Watkins but might be a better player than either of them. He is sudden in his breaks, showing the ability to generate separation even against tight man coverage, and accelerates quickly, often leaving defenders in his dust on double-moves. Moncrief tracks the ball well and generally shows excellent hands (one drop vs. Texas), as well as the body control to make the dazzling grab. Moncrief is also cognizant in the running game, showing awareness and toughness as a downfield blocker

WEAKNESSES: Perhaps the only thing standing in Moncrief's way of becoming the first "skill-position" player from Mississippi to earn a first round draft selection since Eli Manning (No. 1 overall, 2004) is the question about his straight-line speed. Moncrief was not caught from behind on tapes viewed but the big-bodied receiver may not possess elite timed speed.

I believe he would make a great addition to the Steelers if they can nab him with the 3rd Round Comp they would get from Wallace as right now he is viewed as a 3rd-4th Round Pick due to the great depth of Receivers.

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