2018 NFL Draft: USC WR Deontay Burnett scouting report
By Jason Reed
USC wide receiver Deontay Burnett was Sam Darnold’s favorite target in 2017. In 2018, Burnett will test his abilities in the NFL after declaring for the 2018 NFL Draft.
Deontay Burnett declared for the 2018 NFL Draft after quarterback Sam Darnold did the same, forgoing his final year at the university. Burnett was solid for the USC Trojans in his three years in LA and looks to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
Burnett brings an interesting dynamic to the 2018 NFL Draft. In his junior season at USC, Burnett caught 86 receptions for 1114 yards and nine touchdowns. Burnett was one of just 30 players in Division I to eclipse 1000 receiving yards (ranked 16th) and was one of 22 players with 1000 yard and eight or more touchdowns.
This success was due to Burnett’s ability to thrive as a wideout at USC. Burnett proved to be a vertical threat for Sam Darnold with above average route running and the ability to extend plays by making defenders miss tackles.
More from LA Sports Hub
- Lakers: 5 Players to Target Through Trades to make another championship run
- LA Chargers: Week 8 against Denver Broncos is a must-win
- LA Rams: Jared Goff wants to keep the Los Angeles title streak going
- Lakers Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers interested in Rajon Rondo
- LA Chargers: Justin Herbert wins AFC Rookie of the Month
The only problem with Burnett is his size. He is officially listed at six-foot, weighing 170 pounds. While shorter receivers have been able to succeed at wideout in the NFL with great route running and speed (which Burnett has), coming out of the draft he may be held to being a slot receiver; at least initially.
Drafttek has Burnett as the 27th best prospect in the 2018 NFL Draft and the third-best receiving prospect. However, Charlie Cambell of Walter Football is not so keen on Burnett; ranking him the 17th best receiver in the draft class.
Overall, everything surrounding Burnett goes back to his size. His footwork is already there, his route running is already there and he has the natural ability of speed; putting him with an NFL coach will only make him better. The football IQ is definitely there, something that will translate very well to the NFL.
NFL Player Comparison: Travis Benjamin