2020 NFL Draft: Importance of Speed at WR and who’s got next
K.J. Hamler
Penn State’s K.J. Hamler has a very similar skill set to Reagor in the draft, but their usage was a little different. While Reagor got a lot of reverses in the backfield and worked on the outside, Hamler worked primarily in the slot in college and got more screen opportunities. The good news is he made the most of his opportunity in the slot and burned a lot of defensive backs vertically.
It also doesn't make things any easier for Maryland when K.J. Hamler is doing this:pic.twitter.com/O74xQVEToT
— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) September 28, 2019
This first clip is fantastic all around. First off, this is a well-run slant route from Hamler, gaining quick separation. Then, once he gets into open space, we observe his speed and agility. Hamler makes plenty of defenders miss here, but once he sees a lane, he has the extra gear to get past the last pair of defenders for the touchdown.
Don't forget about Hamler as a vertical threat in this class. pic.twitter.com/VVnL8VF1Ib
— Jake Schyvinck (@JakeNFLDraft) February 6, 2020
The second clip shows Hamler’s ability to win vertically down the field. Hamler gets a ton of cushion here as the safety drops down in man coverage. It’s unclear whether the safety was looking for Hamler to work an in or an out, and Hamler blows by him down the field. That ability to work vertical from the slot will intrigue plenty of pass happy offenses.