Riley Cooper (Florida) - 2010 NFL Draft Pick #159 by PHI
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Riley Cooper - 2010 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Riley Cooper
- College: University of Florida
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height: 6'3"
- Weight: 222 lbs
Overview:
Riley Cooper was a standout wide receiver at the University of Florida, known for his size, physicality, and ability to make contested catches. He played a key role in the Gators' offense, contributing to their success in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and showcasing his skills in crucial games.
Strengths:
- Size and Length: Cooper has a tall and well-built frame, making him a difficult matchup for smaller defensive backs.
- Physical Receiver: He excels at using his body to shield defenders and can fight for jump balls effectively.
- Blocking Ability: Cooper is known for being a solid blocker in the run game, which adds value to his skill set.
- Experience: Having played against top competition in the SEC, Cooper has faced a variety of defensive schemes and talent.
Concerns:
- Speed: While Cooper has decent speed, he may not possess the elite acceleration that some NFL teams desire in a deep threat.
- Route Running: There were questions about his ability to create separation consistently against faster NFL cornerbacks.
- Injury History: Some teams were concerned about past injuries that could affect his durability at the professional level.
Overall Assessment:
Riley Cooper was viewed as a solid prospect heading into the 2010 NFL Draft. His combination of size, physicality, and experience made him an appealing option for teams looking for a reliable possession receiver. While he had some concerns, particularly regarding speed and route running, his potential to develop into a productive wideout in the NFL was evident.
Projected Draft Round: 2nd to 4th Round