Darius Slayton, Auburn, Wide Receiver
Here’s a sleeper prospect that could make some noise down the stretch. Here were his numbers:
40 Yard Dash: 4.39 seconds
Vertical Jump: 40.5 inches
Broad Jump: 11’4″
3 Cone Drill: 7.0 seconds
20 yard shuttle: 4.15 seconds
Might I add he also has 10 inch hands. Slayton’s production at Auburn was average. Per Sports Reference, he didn’t have 700 yards in any of his 3 years nor did he have more than 35 receptions and 5 touchdowns. He did average more than 19 yards per catch, and seeing his combine numbers, that might be linked to his speed and agility.
I’ll admit, I haven’t reviewed Slayton’s film. However, he clearly has the raw athleticism that can translate to legitimate production if handled correctly. He didn’t drop any passes, which has been an issue for speedy receivers in the past.
A team with solid talent development may take the chance on a receiver like Slayton earlier knowing that they can transform into something better than what scouts see from him now. In addition, he comes from the elementary Auburn offense. He’ll have to improve his route tree to find success at the next level, but his agility suggests that it will be easier for him to improve it.
In a draft with so many receivers, those who can stand out at events like the combine can find themselves with a bigger pay day after the process has ended. Hopefully, Slayton can find himself amongst the lucky few who get drafted higher.