Emmanuel Sanders (SMU) - 2010 NFL Draft Pick #82 by PIT
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Emmanuel Sanders (2010 NFL Draft)
Emmanuel Sanders, a wide receiver from Southern Methodist University (SMU), was considered a talented prospect heading into the 2010 NFL Draft. Here are some key points from his pre-draft analysis:
- Physical Attributes:
- Height: 5'11"
- Weight: 180 lbs
- Speed: Notable quickness and agility, with a reported 40-yard dash time in the low 4.4 seconds.
- College Performance:
- Recorded impressive statistics during his senior year, showcasing his ability to be a reliable target.
- Had a standout performance in his final college season, contributing significantly to SMU’s offense.
- Route Running:
- Demonstrated excellent route running skills, with the ability to create separation from defenders.
- Known for his sharp cuts and ability to adjust his route based on defensive coverage.
- Versatility:
- Possessed the ability to play both outside and in the slot, making him a valuable asset for various offensive schemes.
- Displayed skills in returning kicks, adding to his versatility as a special teams player.
- Concerns:
- Size was often cited as a concern, as he was not the prototypical large receiver that many teams prefer.
- Had to prove he could handle physical play at the next level against larger cornerbacks.
- Overall Assessment:
- Projected as a mid-round pick, with the potential to develop into a solid NFL receiver.
- Teams looking for a quick, agile receiver with good hands and a strong work ethic were particularly interested.
Emmanuel Sanders was viewed as a promising prospect who could make an immediate impact in the NFL, especially in a role that utilized his speed and route-running ability.