2019 NFL Draft: Creating the perfect wide receiver corps
By Ryan Roberts
X Receiver (Split End): D.K. Metcalf, Ole Miss
DK Metcalf has long been “WR1” in the 2019 NFL Draft class. Certain evaluators will point to lack of production and his season-ending neck injury to dock the level of potential Metcalf possesses.
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The production is an element that is completely overblown. After being injured during game seven this past season, Metcalf had accumulated 569 yards and five touchdowns on only 26 receptions (21.9 yards per catch!). That was right on par with their leading receiver A.J. Brown, who some considered the superior prospect at the time.
The latter concern is definitely understandable, considering just how serious neck injuries can be. All signs indicate the medicals are good to go, however. In terms of his talent, Metcalf presents the perfect skill-set to play the X receiver or split end. Playing the majority of the time in the boundary (short side of the field), a bigger physical profile is a huge bonus.
Mostly lined up on the line of scrimmage, the ability to have solid releases off the line is a necessity for X receivers. Often tasked with facing press coverage, they must exhibit an array of technique and releases to establish leverage, and timing with their quarterback. Metcalf lines up right at the top of the class as far as releases are concerns.
Consistently running routes on a vertical plane, Metcalf uses his impressive physicality and strength to avoid press corners. When ineffectively pressed, there is no cornerback who stands a chance turning and running with Metcalf, considering his god given speed and length.