Kelvin Benjamin (Florida St.) - 2014 NFL Draft Pick #28 by CAR
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Kelvin Benjamin - 2014 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Kelvin Benjamin
- Position: Wide Receiver
- College: Florida State University
- Height: 6'5"
- Weight: 240 lbs
Overview:
Kelvin Benjamin emerged as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2014 NFL Draft following a standout season at Florida State, where he played a crucial role in their national championship run. His combination of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability made him a highly sought-after prospect.
Strengths:
- Size and Physicality: At 6'5" and 240 lbs, Benjamin possesses an imposing frame that gives him a significant advantage over smaller defensive backs.
- Catch Radius: His long arms and height allow him to make difficult catches in traffic, making him a reliable target in the red zone.
- Strong Hands: Benjamin demonstrated the ability to consistently catch the ball, even when contested, showcasing his strong grip and focus.
- Playmaking Ability: He has the ability to turn short passes into big gains, aided by his size and agility.
Weaknesses:
- Route Running: Benjamin’s route tree was somewhat limited in college, and he needed to develop more nuance in his routes at the NFL level.
- Separation: While he can win contested catches, he sometimes struggled to create separation from defenders on a consistent basis.
- Consistency: There were concerns about his focus and concentration, leading to drops at crucial moments during games.
Draft Projection:
Kelvin Benjamin was projected as a first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, with many analysts viewing him as one of the top receivers available. His potential to become a number one receiver in the NFL made him an attractive option for teams in need of offensive firepower.
Conclusion:
Kelvin Benjamin's blend of size, strength, and playmaking ability positioned him as a promising wide receiver prospect. Teams looking to bolster their receiving corps saw him as a valuable addition that could impact their offense immediately.