2021 NFL Draft: Los Angeles Chargers 7-round mock
Herbert has nice receivers to work with on the outside, but he and his offense could use more juice in the slot. Atwell lacks the size to be a playmaker on the outside, but he’s got the wiggle required to be a dangerous threat on the inside.
Atwell should be available in Round 4 because he lacks polish as a route-runner. That may force him to be more of a gadget player during his rookie campaign. He’s still worth the trouble for a Chargers offense that needs to make life easier for its quarterback.
In the long run, Atwell has all the qualities required to be a standout in the slot. He’s got terrific short-range quickness and he has elite speed that allows him to run away from opposing defensive backs.
If Atwell were more polished or 6-feet tall he’d be a Day 1 or Day 2 prospect. Los Angeles should gamble on the diminutive wideout to prove the doubters wrong in Round 4.