NFL Draft 2015: Top 10 Wide Receiver Prospects
By Rob Hill
Nov 1, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Auburn Tigers wide receiver Sammie Coates (18) catches a pass defended by Ole Miss Rebels defensive back Senquez Golson (21) at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Auburn defeated Ole Miss 35-31. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
#10 Sammie Coates, Auburn Tigers
If you got see the Auburn Tigers play in a big game in 2013 or 2014 you probably saw Sammie Coates turn in a big performance. The country became aware of Coates when he turned in 200+ yards against Alabama in November. What most aren’t aware of is his 21.8 yards per catch average.
When you look at Sammie’s career numbers top to bottom they’re not going to jump off the page at you. What’s needs to be remembered is he played in a Gus Malzhon system which in just 2014 alone ran the ball twice as often as they threw it.
The problem with Coates, at least for Auburn fans, were those moments in between big games or non-pressure moments where he simply just drops the ball. I wouldn’t call this a hands issues considering the amazing catches he turns in, I would call it more a concentration issue. I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen him try to run without the football. Combine this with his documented issues with quarterback Nick Marshall and there are some definite red flags for teams looking at Coates.
I don’t see Coates as a first round pick, though he has shown first round play-making ability. I would project Coates as late second, early third round selection for a team looking for a #2 receiver with down the field play-making ability. Coates is also safe to have on the field during running plays as his run blocking is above average.
Next: #9