2021 NFL Draft: 3 sleeper WRs to keep close eye on
By Mark Sipos
3. Brennan Eagles, University of Texas
Possibly the most underrated wide receiver prospect in this year’s draft, Brennan Eagles is a tall, fast wide receiver who was a victim of a poor passing offense during his time while at Texas. Standing at 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, Eagles stands out on the field just for his size alone. Eagles is a long strider who can get past defenders if they underestimate his speed. Eagles hauled in 16.8 yards per catch during his career for the Longhorns, showing his playmaking ability.
Eagles usea his height and length to win contested passes downfield, which could lead to a red zone threat role immediately wherever he lands. Eagles ran a 4.55 at the Texas pro day, showing that he possesses the speed to be a threat downfield. According to Kent Lee Platte, the creator of Relative Athletic Scores (RAS), Eagles currently has the fifth-highest score of wide receivers, posting a score of 8.99/10. Though his agility tested poor, Eagles is not asked to be a shifty player, given his size and ability to win in other areas.
At the next level, Eagles will need to improve on his short-to-intermediate separation along with his overall route running in order to develop into a #1 wide receiver. If Eagles is able to create enough separation at the beginning of his routes to keep cornerbacks guessing, then he should have plenty of opportunities to make plays downfield.
Next. Saints: Terrace Marshall Jr. the ideal threat opposite Michael Thomas. dark
Eagles should be able to step into a role of red-zone target on day one. With the talent that Eagles possesses, it would not be a surprise to see him earn more targets as the season goes on. Teams such as the Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles, and Baltimore Ravens could all strike gold in the middle of the draft if they select Eagles.