Chris Conley NFL Draft 2015: Scouting Report, Grade for Chiefs' 3rd-Round Pick

STRENGTHS

Chris Conley blew up at the combine and made everyone take notice. Conley posted eye-popping numbers in the 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical and broad jumps. That shows up on film too, where he’s a silky smooth route-runner who can accelerate in a hurry to blow past cornerbacks.

He destroys a cushion off the line, and cornerbacks will demand help over the top when facing him in man coverage. Conley has long arms (33 ¾”) and uses his hands to get the ball out of the air. You won’t see him let the ball get into his frame or bounce off his pads. Conley is a high-character player with no concerns. Teammates called him a “nerd” when we asked about Conley.

WEAKNESSES

Conley is a one-year wonder who dominated in 2014 but was injured and limited in 2013. At 6’2”, he has size, but he doesn’t play up to his 213-pound frame. He’s easily bumped and jammed at the line of scrimmage and struggles to get off the ball on time.

Conley is limited as a runner after the catch and doesn’t yet translate his speed to the field there. He’s not particularly agile to make elusive moves with the ball. Conley’s film and workouts show too many drops.

2014 STATISTICS

Receptions: 36          
Yards Receiving: 657                
Touchdowns: 8 

PRO COMPARISON: Travis Benjamin, Cleveland Browns

Is he a sprinter or a football player? The jury is still out on Conley, but his traits remind of Travis Benjamin, but with a higher ceiling.

FINAL GRADE: 5.40/9.00 (Quality Backup)