2020 NFL Draft Big Board: Ranking top 10 wide receivers in historic class
By Samuel Teets
1. CeeDee Lamb, Oklahoma
While some people believe Jeudy is the best receiver in the draft, CeeDee Lamb possesses a unique, well-rounded skill set. He makes plays at all levels of the defense and rarely drops passes. No other receiver in the 2020 draft class approaches Lamb’s ball skills and in-air body control.
When Lamb catches the ball, he becomes an even greater threat. His 4.5-second 40-yard dash time shows he doesn’t possess killer speed, but Lamb is exceptionally shifty and violent with the ball in his hands. He can either run through or around defensive backs with an arsenal of open-field moves.
In college, Lamb played with two Heisman winning quarterbacks who became first overall selections. In his three seasons, Lamb amassed 173 receptions, 3,292 yards, and 32 touchdowns. He flashed big-play ability this past year, averaging 21.4 yards per reception. If the draft becomes unpredictable, Lamb could reunite with Baker Mayfield in Cleveland or Kyler Murray in Arizona.
NFL Network’s Lance Zierlein compared Lamb to former All-Pro Chad Johnson (Ochocinco). Meanwhile, Joe Marino of The Draft Network compared Oklahoma’s star receiver to DeAndre Hopkins. With those lofty comparisons floating around, it’s no wonder a team will select Lamb within the first 15 picks.
Some concerns remain about Lamb’s ability to shake stiff man-to-man or press coverage in the NFL, but the 2019 consensus All-American is still growing as a receiver. With proper coaching, he’ll improve his releases and route running in the pros.