Amari Cooper: Prospect Breakdown (with GIFs)

Jan 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Amari Cooper (9) runs the ball during the first quarter of the 2015 Sugar Bowl against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Next up in Just Blog Baby’s continuous coverage of the NFL Draft is a breakdown of Amari Cooper.

Cooper is either the first or second most popular pick for the Oakland Raiders at this point, with the other being Leonard Williams.

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One of Cooper’s best traits is his ability to rack up yards after the catch. He’s got 4.4 speed and is elusive in the open field. Plays like this one, where Amari turned a simple bubble screen into a big gain, were a common occurrence in Alabama’s offense.

Plays like this one are simple, but are a must for a wide receiver to have success at the next level. Cooper makes a tough catch on the slant route with the defensive back draped all over him, and then picks up extra yardage after the catch.

A bad throw by McCarron here is the main reason for the interception, but Amari could have used his body here to shield the defender. With adequate size (6’1, 210), this isn’t an area Cooper excels in.

Cooper’s hands are good, but not great. He seemed to struggle with simple catches, such as this one. Inexcusable drop.

Cooper’s release at the line of scrimmage is excellent. This his is favorite move, and he wins with it often. Also, he once again picks up yards at the catch. A common theme.

Next: Amari Cooper Film Breakdown, Part 2