2015 NFL Draft Scouting Report: DeVante Parker

Dec 28, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Louisville Cardinals wide receiver DeVante Parker (9) catches a pass while defended by Miami Hurricanes defensive back Artie Burns (1) during the second half of the Russell Athletic Bowl at Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports

Scout’s Take

Strengths: CBSSports.com’s Derek Stephens said of Parker’s strengths, “At 6’3 with long arms, soft hands and superb leaping ability, Parker is as tough of a receiver to defend as there is anywhere in the country as he utilizes great body control and timing to win any ball thrown in his vicinity regardless of how well-covered he is.

“After the catch, Parker demonstrates impressive shiftiness despite being a long-strider and has a nice second gear to create distance once he’s in the open field.”

Weaknesses: Stephens said of his weaknesses, ” Parker’s initial burst and quickness off the line is only marginal, so he’ll need to continue improving with his hands to routinely beat press coverage, and he lacks elite straight-line speed to separate vertically.

“He’s also still developing as a route-runner as he lacks sharpness on cuts, and doesn’t always work his way back to the ball, but he has shown steady improvement in this area.”

Next: Another Scout's Take