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2015 NFL Draft: Devin Funchess Scouting Report

Devin Funchess                               THEWARROOMLWS

Michigan, WR/TE
Height: 6.5
Weight: 235
Age: 21

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Athleticism: B-

Impressive athlete for the tight end position, and fairly average athletic ability for a wide receiver, not considering his size. Shows a very good size-speed ratio on the field and can stretch the field when asked to do so. Uses his long strides to chew up turf quickly, but doesn’t show too much explosive burst. Significantly larger than the average wide receiver and agility and fluidity are below average as a result. Athleticism appeared to suffer from playing through an ankle injury in 2014.

Catching: C+

Possesses a huge frame and wingspan, and presents a large catching radius and target for a quarterback. Has a strong pair of hands and can make some difficult grabs, especially in the end zone and along the sideline. Adjusts well to the high-thrown ball, but can struggle with lower throws. The victim of mediocre quarterback play and often had to extend to make routine catches. However, there is a significant lack of concentration and mental toughness as a receiver. Suffered from a disturbing number of drops, especially in 2014 and seems tentative working over the middle and in traffic.

Routes: C-

Was used in a variety of ways in Michigan’s offense and played inline, from the slot, and on the outside. Doesn’t release particularly well off of the line, and will run around rather than through defenders. Doesn’t properly sink his hips into his routes and has choppy footwork into his breaks. Uses some nifty head fakes to keep defenders off balance and to separate late. Doesn’t seem to like to get physical, despite his massive frame.

After Catch: B-

Sheer size makes him difficult to bring down after the catch, but puts his athleticism to work in this department as well. Transitions quickly after receiving the ball (though this can lead to drops) and gets moving upfield quickly. Flashes some wiggle and can bull through shoulder bombs without losing balance. Will be brought down too easily by ankle tackles, however.

Blocking: B

Ill-suited for blocking as an inline Y tight end, but is more applicable on the outside or in the slot. Large frame to naturally cover up corners and safeties in the running game. Effort as a blocker is intermittent and can be lackadaisical even at times. Is not someone who can be trusted on an every down basis to block in a run heavy offense.

Red Flags: Project

Bottom Line: Devin Funchess is one of the more intriguing projects on offense in this year’s draft, but is not without significant red flags in his game. Funchess seemed to have checked out early in the 2014 season and sleepwalked through the rest of the season. Will not last long in the NFL if he doesn’t get his head on straight and could become a drive-killer with his frequency of drops.

Comparison: Eric Ebron

Grade: 8.6 (2nd Round)

 

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