DaeSean Hamilton’s Skill Set Will Have Him Contributing Immediately For An NFL Team

DaeSean Hamilton, WR
School: Penn State | Conference: BIG 10
College Experience: Senior | Age: 22
Height / Weight: 6-0 / 203 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 3rd Round
NFL Comparison: Jeremy Maclin

College Statistics

Player Overview

DaeSean Hamilton is quietly one of the best receivers in this draft class. Having been praised by ex-Panther and Raven WR Steve Smith during the combine I finally sat down and watched Hamilton. Smith praised Hamilton for his route running and his proficiency in that area is obvious on film. It got me thinking about a podcast I was listening to recently where the hosts mentioned how 1st round WR production has been down over the last few years. The host contended that rookie WRs regardless of where they are taken are more likely to contribute in a substantial way if their route running ability is refined. Its the way they run routes that allows them to stick and carve out a place in the NFL not their height, speed, vertical jump or otherwise. Some examples that were thrown out were Cooper Kupp, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Sterling Shepherd, Jamison Crowder etc.

Hamilton is going to be the next guy in that category. Hamilton can create separation on his route running alone. His footwork is refined and he has excellent short area quickness agility and burst. He also uses his body to creat space between him the defender and the ball and plays much bigger than his size in this regard. A lot project him to play slot at the next level but I think he can play outside as well. He looks to have decent enough speed to stretch the field vertically and has decent jumping ability and strong natural hands that can secure the ball away from defenders. Hamilton has a skill set that can propel him to be a legitimate WR2 at the next level.

Strengths

• Good size, speed, and athleticism for the position.
• A threat from the slot or on the outside. Methodical in his practice and has the fundamentals (catching technique, timing, routes, etc) down pact.
• Excellent route runner that ran a pretty full tree at Penn State. Footwork and precision are some of his most impressive traits. He sets defenders up to bite and fail and can create space with simple movements. Body adjustment is great and he's a tough player that can withstand hits after the catch
• Plays much bigger than his size and can win jump balls as well and create damage underneath running after the catch.
• Lauded as a leader, team-first player with a high football IQ by coaches and scouts.

Weaknesses

• No elite physical traits like outstanding speed, burst, jumping ability etc. Also, doesnt have much of a second gear.
• Initial burst off the LOS could be better especially when he’s going up against press guys.

Let’s see his work:

More DaeSean Hamilton videos

How He Would Fit On The Redskins

While DaeSean Hamilton doesn’t have the qualities the Redskins may want (legit speed) and represents a style of play the Redskins arguably have (Jamison Crowder) I still wouldn't mind him wearing the Burgundy and Gold. If he’s given the right opportunity I can see him developing into a legit WR2 somewhat similar to DeVante Adams in Green Bay or Mohamed Sanu in Atlanta. Those guys like Hamilton don't possess any elite athletic skills but their fundamentals are rock solid and they win with their routes, physicality, solid hands and ability after the catch. I think Hamilton could have success in Washington but I think it may come at the expense of top production from Jamison Crowder and other receivers. I also don't view Alex Smith as a QB that spreads it around as much as say, Aaron Rodgers or Matt Ryan. Ultimately I think Hamilton can thrive in a situation where he is gradually worked into an offense behind established receivers and a balanced distribution in the passing attack. His refined skill set should allow him to hit the ground running ready to produce for a team.