Daniel Lasco NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Saints Rookie

POSITIVES

Daniel Lasco was a workout warrior at the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine—finishing as a top-five performer at his position in the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump and 60-yard shuttle. But does the tape match the hype generated in Indianapolis?

Lasco has the burst to get through the first line of defenders and the long speed to pull away for chunk plays. He adjusts his speed well to elude defenders and shows the ability to open up his throttle and run away from linebackers and cause defensive backs to take poor angles to the ball.

As a third-down specialist, Lasco looks natural and comfortable catching the ball out of the backfield. In 2014, when he was fully healthy, Lasco caught 33 passes for 356 yards and two touchdowns.

NEGATIVES

Lasco started just three games in 2015—with nine appearances—due to injuries. That those injuries were to his hip and ankle is a major concern for NFL teams.

A lack of awareness as a runner is a major red flag. Lasco isn't a natural at finding rushing lanes or anticipating cutbacks. If the hole is there, he'll hit it, but if he has to create on his own, he will struggle to do more than bounce outside and try to use his speed on the corner.

There is no pop to Lasco's game, even though you might expect some for a 200-plus-pounder. He's a straight up-and-down runner who goes down on first contact and will look for the sideline before looking to cut back against the grain for a few extra yards.

Lasco tested well and played well in 2014, but a poor 2015 makes him questionable as a draftable player. Add in a hip injury and iffy instincts, and he looks more like a priority free agent.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'0 2/8"

Weight: 209 lbs.

40 Time: 4.46s

3-Cone: 7.22s

Short Shuttle: 4.26s

PRO COMPARISON: Mike Gillislee, Buffalo Bills
FINAL GRADE: 5.00/9.00 (Priority Free Agent)