Whop Philyor NFL Draft Overview
Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 5’-11”
Weight: 181 pounds
School: Indiana
2021 NFL Draft Profile: Whop Philyor
Being a man of many talents could only help one’s case in getting their name called in the NFL Draft. Whop Philyor, whose nickname comes from his infatuation with Burger King Whoppers, has the skill set to be a threat in multiple ways provided he gets drafted. Starting eight games in 2020, Philyor logged 54 receptions, 495 yards, and three touchdowns in the shortened season. Also getting reps as a running back and punt returner, Philyor brings a Swiss-army knife set of abilities to the table in the later rounds of the draft.
Eleven games as a reserve saw Philyor produce 35 receptions, 335 yards, and three touchdowns his freshman year. His 2018 season was cut short by an ankle injury, but Philyor still managed 23 catches, 235 yards, and a single touchdown. His junior campaign was a huge success. Philyor recorded 70 receptions for 1,002 yards and five touchdowns. He also rushed for 43 yards and returned 15 punts to the tune of 49 yards. His 2019 efforts earned him an All Big Ten selection along with Offensive Player of the Year for Indiana. After the 2020 season saw him on pace to continue his production, Philyor hopes his many talents get him onto an NFL roster.
Strengths
- Plays larger and tougher than his size;
- High football IQ;
- Protects ball after the catch;
- Huge burst in release from slot;
- Plays as returner and running back;
Weaknesses
- Size will get him dominated at catch point;
- Doesn’t extend plays after the catch;
- Hands are inconsistent from time to time;
- Average at running the route tree;
- Gives away his angle in cuts;
NFL Comparison: Keke Coutee
Teams With Need at Position: Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens, Detroit Lions, New England Patriots,
Projection: Seventh Round
Bottom Line on Whop Philyor
Offering versatility, Philyor looks to make an NFL roster and contribute at whatever position someone lines him up at. His production at Indiana is nothing to scoff at, however, his size offers its own concerns. Philyor plays like he is much larger than his below-average frame, and takes hits from bigger defenders without issue. Coaches can be at ease when the ball is in his hands, as he protects it on all assignments. Philyor also offers and a second burst of speed that could see him glide by secondaries.
Being less than 200 pounds and six feet makes for a mountain Philyor must climb to hear his name called. Route running may be an additional red flag, an area where Philyor is merely average. A low motor after the catch may see Philyor only achieving minimal gains. The ultimate concern is his size at the catch point. Large corners seem to be the prototype in the NFL today and Philyor could struggle to maintain production against them.
A consistent four seasons at Indiana has Philyor slated to land between late-round six and round seven. Any team looking to add speed on special teams could add the prospect. More likely would be a team like the San Francisco 49ers, who like multi-faceted pass catchers that can open the field up. Philyor may be undersized for NFL standards but could raise a few eyebrows given the shot at the next level.
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