Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Courtland Sutton (SMU) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #40 by DEN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Courtland Sutton (2018 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
Courtland Sutton, Wide Receiver, Southern Methodist University (SMU)

• Height: 6'4"
• Weight: 218 lbs
• College Stats:
  • 2017: 68 receptions, 1,085 yards, 12 touchdowns
  • Career: 195 receptions, 3,220 yards, 31 touchdowns

Strengths:

• Size and Catch Radius: Sutton's height and wingspan make him an exceptional target in the red zone and on contested catches.
• Ball Skills: Demonstrates strong hands, showcases the ability to track the ball well, particularly on deep routes.
• Route Running: Although he primarily used physicality, he displayed the ability to run a variety of routes effectively.
• Physicality: Strong after the catch, Sutton can break tackles and gain additional yards.
• Work Ethic: Known for his dedication and willingness to improve, he is seen as a player who will continue to develop.

Weaknesses:

• Speed: While he has good size, Sutton lacks elite speed which may limit his ability to create separation against top cornerbacks.
• Consistency: At times, he struggled with drops and concentration, which raised concerns about reliability.
• Route Tree: Needs to refine his route running to become more polished and effective against NFL defenses.

Overall Assessment:

Courtland Sutton entered the 2018 NFL Draft as one of the top wide receiver prospects due to his combination of size, strength, and production at SMU. With a solid understanding of the game and a proven ability to make plays, he was viewed as a potential first or second-round pick. Teams looking for a physical receiver who can dominate in the air and improve their passing game would find Sutton an appealing option. However, concerns regarding his speed and consistency could impact his draft stock.

Projected Draft Position:

Late first round to early second round