As the NFL draft is set to get underway former Oklahoma wide receiver Dede Westbrook is a player that most likely won’t be waiting around a long time to hear his name called. A first-team All-American in 2016 and Big 12 Newcomer of the Year in 2015, Westbrook relies heavily on his speed as a play maker.
Strengths
Truly possessing world-class speed, Westbrook also has good footwork and the ability to open up in tight spaces. He can accelerate vertically very quickly and is extremely dangerous with the ball in his hands. Westbrook is able to get a good read on defensive backs and runs patient routes. He also excels at coming back to the ball.
Weakness
At 6-0/178, Westbrook has a small frame. That doesn’t necessarily translate into a lack of success though. What it does mean is that Dede will need to work to get stronger so that he won’t be bullied by bigger NFL defensive backs.
Draft Prediction
New Orleans Saints (2nd round) |The Saints traded Brandon Cooks away which makes the receiver position somewhat of a priority in this draft. I suspect New Orleans will address defensive back concerns with their two first round picks and then look at a receiver in the second.