Antonio Callaway, Florida: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Florida’s Antonio Callaway is an explosive athlete who has created headaches both on and off the field during his college career.
Antonio Callaway quickly jumps off the screen as a dangerous playmaker. He has the top-end speed and burst to outpace defensive angles. His speed allows him to stretch the field while also turning short passes into long gains.
Florida recognizes his playmaker ability and does everything they can to get him the football. This includes wide receiver screens, short crossing routes and reverses.
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Callaway is also a very dangerous kick and punt returner. He pairs his excellent quickness with good vision and elusive movements. His ability to produce game changing plays in the return game is just another avenue for Callaway to put points on the board.
In a more traditional setting, he shows the smoothness needed to run clean routes. Florida mainly asked him to run routes that helped him get the ball with room to create. However, he did flash the ability to read a defense and find openings in the zone.
Callaway has good hands and routinely plucks the ball away from his frame. He shows the ability to make some tough catches, but there are also occasions where he looks loses focus and will drop a pass.
There’s no doubting Callaway’s athletic ability and overall production. However, he also comes with major off-field question marks. Callaway has had several run ins with the law including issues with marijuana.
This is something that will absolutely hurt his draft stock. We have seen game changers like Josh Gordon, Martavius Bryant and Le’Veon Bell miss time because of failed drug tests. It’s hard for a team to invest an early draft pick on a player who may face potential suspensions.
The combine and team interviews will be key for Callaway has he tries to show he can stay out of trouble in the NFL.