NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Courtland Sutton, WR, SMU
- Courtland Sutton
- Position: WR
- School: SMU
- College Experience: Junior
- Hometown: Brenham, TX
- Height/Weight: 6ft4/218lbs
- Games Watched: 2017 vs Memphis, TCU
Overview
As a freshman Sutton appeared in just 2 games before missing the rest of the season with an injury and took a medical redshirt. As a redshirt freshman in 2015 Sutton enjoyed a nice bounce back season he started all 12 games for the Mustangs and recorded 49 receptions for 862 yards receiving and 9 touchdowns. As a sophomore Sutton again started all 12 games for the Mustangs and had 76 catches for 1,246 yards and 12 touchdowns. He chose to return for his Junior season at SMU rather than entering the 2017 NFL Draft. Sutton also spent some time on the SMU Basketball team.
Strengths
Great physical strength. Has a great height advantage over defenders. He’s tall with a long, muscular frame. He uses his size/strength combination to win a lot of 50/50 balls. Does a great job tracking the ball while keeping his balance down field. Sutton provides his quarterback with a big target who is very good at winning contested catches. Builds up good speed on the outside and is very explosive. He is a great competitor and a very physical football player. Is a great run blocker. His production overall is outstanding.
Weaknesses
Sutton needs to be more physical against Corner Backs. He does not have a great burst of speed when he takes off downfield. Can sometimes drift away from the ball. He sometimes tends to drop some very catchable passes and uses his body to make a catch. Sutton also has some concentration drops where he takes his eyes off the ball. He needs to become a more consistent pass catcher if teams are going to rely on him as a true number one WR.
Draft Projection
Round 1
Pro Comparison
Dez Bryant
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a Wide Receiver that possess the size and strength that teams look for in a WR. He can win in jump balls and double coverage. Can be stretched out wide and used as a goal line threat. Teams will be able to use Sutton in multiple ways. He is a very talented football player. Look to hear his name called on early in the 2018 NFL Draft.
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