2015 NFL Draft: Auburn WR Sammie Coates Scouting Report

In a tricky WR class in the 2015 NFL Draft, Auburn WR Sammy Coates seems to be one of the more puzzling prospects on paper. He plays at Auburn, a school that has a history of producing NFL-ready players – but receivers? Currently, there isn’t an active wide receiver from the Tigers in the NFL. Cam Newton and Jason Campbell are the lone quarterbacks, while rookie Tre Mason headlines the running backs.

Can a receiver from Auburn thrive in the NFL? Here’s a bit of a scouting report for Coates, a guy who has the potential to be one of the few Auburn WRs to thrive in the NFL:

STRENGTHS

• No too much wear and tear on his body if he decides to declare for the draft this year
• Crazy quickness – rumor has it, he can run in the 4.3’s consistently.
• Physical play – not afraid to go “all in”
• A plus frame that allows him to play big

WEAKNESSES

• Doesn’t appear to be the most versatile receiver
• Limited passing scheme at Auburn hasn’t shown if he can handle a full workload
• Quick, but not an explosive player that can dart through holes in the defensive backfield

Ultimately, Coates would be a tough sell for any team in the first round as things stand right now. He’s battled through a leg injury early on this season, and hasn’t shown the “wow” factor that many have looked for. There’s no question that his tools are special for someone as young as he is. He’ll need to show significant explosiveness during the remainder of the season if he ultimately wants to enter the 2015 NFL Draft.

Right now, guys like Amari Cooper, Jaelen Strong, and Ty Montgomery are all making cases to be looked at before Coates. Once crunch time comes, can NFL teams trust the Auburn WR?