2020 NFL Draft Big Board: Ranking top 10 wide receivers in historic class
By Samuel Teets
8. Denzel Mims, Baylor
About a month ago, rumbles began going out that Denzel Mims could rise into the first round. That’s a huge mistake. While he flashed signs of becoming a quality WR2, Mims is nowhere near a top-five receiver in the draft. He’s a jack of all trades but master of none, which limits his ceiling.
In his final three seasons at Baylor, Mims amassed 182 receptions, 2,901 yards and 28 touchdowns. He weighed in well at the combine, officially registering as 6-3, 207 pounds. He followed up with an electric 4.38 40-time. Despite these great showings, Mims’ floor will push him to the third-round on several teams’ draft boards.
For a player his size, Mims gets blown off course by cornerbacks too often. He struggles to create separation against press coverage and doesn’t win as many 50-50 balls as he should. Mims need to add more weight to his frame if he’s going to turn into a reliable jump-ball player in the NFL.
Mims puts in effort in the run game, trying to block opponents. He isn’t always successful, but he appears willing to learn and develop in this facet of his game. Mims also receives praise for his large catch radius and ability to track the football. Against air, he’s tremendous. It’s when he faces physical defensive backs that things begin to fall apart.