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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Matthew Slater (UCLA) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #153 by NE

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Matthew Slater (2008 NFL Draft)

Position: Wide Receiver / Special Teams

College: UCLA

Overview

Matthew Slater was a versatile player coming out of UCLA, known primarily for his skills as a wide receiver but also recognized for his potential impact on special teams. His blend of athleticism, speed, and football IQ made him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their rosters.

Strengths

  • Speed and Agility: Slater displayed impressive speed, which made him a deep threat in college and allowed him to create separation from defenders.
  • Work Ethic: Known for his strong work ethic, Matthew consistently put in the necessary effort to improve his skills and adapt to different roles on the team.
  • Special Teams Potential: Slater's ability to contribute on special teams was a significant asset. He had experience as a return man and could play on coverage units.
  • Football IQ: Demonstrated a good understanding of the game, allowing him to read defenses and find soft spots in coverage.

Weaknesses

  • Size: At 6'0" and around 200 pounds, Slater lacked the ideal size for a primary wide receiver, which raised questions about his ability to compete against larger defensive backs.
  • Route Running: Although he had speed, his route-running skills needed refinement to be effective at the professional level.
  • Consistency: Slater's production in college was variable, leading to concerns about his ability to perform consistently in the NFL.

Draft Projection

Matthew Slater was projected to be selected in the middle to late rounds of the 2008 NFL Draft, primarily due to his special teams potential and the versatility he offered. Teams looking for depth at the wide receiver position and quality special teams contributors might have seen him as a valuable addition to their roster.

Conclusion

Matthew Slater was viewed as a player with a solid combination of speed and work ethic, making him an appealing prospect for NFL teams. His ability to contribute on special teams was likely to be a deciding factor in his draft stock.