D.K. Metcalf was one of the prospects who walked away from the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine as a big winner, but let’s not crown him just yet. There are a number of red flags surrounding the Ole Miss product that should give teams pause.
First, let’s take a look at the reasons why Metcalf is so hot right now.
Combine superlatives: Metcalf showed up with barely any fat on his utterly ripped 6-foot-3, 228-pound frame and then flaunted ridiculous athleticism.
- The receiver’s 40 time of 4.33 seconds was bettered by just three other prospects, all of whom give significant up inches and pounds to Metcalf.
- Metcalf’s 27 reps on the bench showed he’s incredibly strong, which should help him from getting bullied by press corners at the NFL level.
- The Ole Miss star showed explosion with a vertical of 40.5 inches (third-best among receivers) and a broad jump of 11-foot-2 (fifth-best).
These numbers, on top the things Metcalf has shown on the field in college (like this incredible one-handed grab), have teams very intrigued about his pro potential.
Combine deficiencies: As impressive as the good stuff was, there were a couple of tests that showed how limited Metcalf will be, too.
- Metcalf ran his 3-cone drill in 7.38 seconds. This was the third-worst total among receivers.
- His short shuttle was completed in 4.5 seconds, which was fourth-worst for receivers at the combine.
- These numbers show Metcalf’s inability to utilize quick footwork and move laterally.
Essentially, you could surmise that Metcalf will be seen by teams as a straight-line deep threat, and not much else.
Other red flags: Metcalf was very effective when he was on the field for Ole Miss. The problem is, he wasn’t on the field that much in his three years playing college ball.
- As a true freshman, Metcalf broke his foot.
- Last season, as a redshirt sophomore, he injured his neck and appeared in just seven games.
- As a result, Metcalf appeared in just 21 games during his three years at Ole Miss.
- Despite incredible measurables and talent, he managed just 67 receptions for 1,228 yards and 14 touchdowns.
The bottom line: As incredibly athletic as Metcalf is. As much as teams will drool over his potential, there is some significant risk associated with this prospect. His history of injuries, along with his limited, raw game, should give teams pause about selecting him early in Round 1.