This year's WR class isn't quite as talented as those in recent years, and Saturday's combine results reflected as much. Nevertheless, two receivers, William Fuller and Josh Doctson, improved their draft stock at Lucas Oil Stadium with some impressive numbers.
Several days after telling AtlantaFalcons.com he'd like to catch passes from Matt Ryan, Fuller ran a scorching 4.32-second 40-yard dash—the fastest time of any wideout. It's also in the 97th percentile historically among combine WRs.
ESPN’s Matt Mullen said that, while the 21-year-old has inconsistent hands, his rare speed and route-running ability—which was also on display in Indianapolis—can make him a game-changer as a pro.
The former Notre Dame wideout has drawn comparisons to Ted Ginn, Jr. and is projected to go in the second round. If Atlanta wishes to invest their No. 50 overall pick on an offensive weapon, Fuller might be a wise choice.
Although Doctson didn't turn heads in the 40 (4.50 seconds), he excelled in other important areas. His 41-inch vertical was tied for the best at his position; his 131-inch broad jump was good for second, just an inch behind Ricardo Louis' first-place leap.
The 6-foot-2, 202-pounder from TCU undoubtedly moved up draft boards this weekend. According to SB Nation’s Zach Whitman, only 13 WRs in the last 17 draft classes have matched Doctson's speed, vertical jump, broad jump and height.
His hands aren't bad, either.
Indeed, Doctson is a well-rounded athlete—one who has the speed and raw ability to become a force in the NFL.
Compared to DeAndre Hopkins by NFL.com's Bucky Brooks, Doctson may have worked his way into the first round at the combine. If not, he'd be tremendous value when the Falcons are on the clock in the second.
