2015 NFL Draft: Final Big Board Prospects 26-50

Oct 4, 2014; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers receiver Sammie Coates (18) gets past LSU Tigers linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52) during the first half at Jordan Hare Stadium. Auburn beat LSU 41-7. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

40. Sammie Coates, WR (Auburn)

Coates is a receiver that really intrigues me. I don’t see him developing into a number one receiver. I compare him to Torrey Smith, who now is a member of the San Francisco 49ers. Coates, like Smith, is a speedy deep threat who is dangerous with his YAC (yards after the catch).

I don’t think Coates has the toughness deep down the field to compete with the shutdown corners of the NFL. He will have to win by being fast or knowing when to use his great jumping ability. Coates ran a 4.43 40 yard dash at the NFL Combine and had a 41 inch vertical jump. He had a surprisingly good result with the bench press at 23 reps. I’d like to see more of that kind of strength on the football field.

Coates has inconsistent hands and is not a great route runner. He goes on flashes where he is unstoppable but then has moments where his is a rather small factor in the game.

Coates is a good receiver and he will be a good player. He won’t be a number one receiver but he will be a productive receiver nonetheless.

Next: 41. Breshad Perriman, WR (UCF)