Darrell Daniels, TE, Washington scouting report — 2017 NFL Draft
2017 NFL Draft: Scouting report for former Washington Huskies tight end Darrell Daniels, a converted wide receiver with excellent long speed…
Darrell Daniels is a combination wide receiver/tight end from a Washington Huskies program that is putting out some really strong offensive talent, including potential first round pick John Ross at wide receiver.
Apparently, there’s something in the water at Washington because Ross and Daniels are bringing speed, speed, and more speed to the next level.
Daniels is an energetic player who brings very intriguing athletic traits to the table. His production at Washington is a bit of a concern at first glance, having caught just 47 passes in the last three seasons with five touchdowns. He showed off an ability to make big plays, however, averaging 18.1 yards per catch this past season with a career-high three scores.
It’s hard not to love Daniels’ top end speed (4.55) and his massive arms and hands. The physical traits are certainly there for the former wide receiver, who looks every bit of his former position on the field.
Washington converted Daniels to the tight end position and he’s been used in a number of different roles within their offense, and you’ll see him get matched up in favorable situations where the Huskies can exploit his size, speed, and quickness.
What Daniels lacks at this point is any sort of refinement in route running skills. He’s been able to create separation with his speed but he hasn’t quite honed in on how to use that trait to his advantage any other way than beating defensive backs and linebackers deep down the field.
Overall Thoughts
I think Daniels is worth a look on day three of the draft based on his physical traits and big play capabilities. His skills as a move TE need refinement, especially in the route running department. He has the length and strength to be an asset in the running game, but his blocking could also use some tweaking.
When you talk about a day three pick, you want guys with upside and an ability to possibly contribute early on special teams, and Daniels also offers that. He has played some special teams before and he certainly has the size and speed to be on coverage units.