K.C. Chiefs fans have been calling for a receiver, and the team delivered through the draft. They lost Sammy Watkins through free agency to the Baltimore Ravens, and Chiefs fans are still unsure on the reliability of Mecole Hardman. Hardman shows off his electrifying speed consistently, but with inconsistent hands and average route running, it raises the question: Can Mecole Hardman be a true wide receiver two? After debating that question they decided that they wanted more depth at the position and selected Cornell Powell in the fifth round out of Clemson.
Strengths:
The Chiefs are looking forward to next season after making some major changes. The Chiefs made multiple moves this offseason, but the upside with this pick tops all others. Powell was a standout at the Senior Bowl, and after having a breakout game against Boston College and another against Notre Dame, he was a name to watch rise up draft boards this spring.
Powell is an exciting player due to his route variations, nuance, and his ability to make big plays down the field. Powell, although not a flashy player, has the ability to be a great threat for any team willing to give him the opportunities to succeed. He doesn’t have the same high level of speed as the rest of the Chiefs, but will complement them very well with his play style. He does have the ability to create separation that will allow him to be a valuable target when he is able to be out on the field.
Weaknesses:
Powell doesn’t have a great deal of experience competing at a high level. Although, it may not be a big problem to some, the amount of film to dissect was fairly limited. When you’re on a high profile team, and your film is limited, it usually due to lack of traits.
Clemson has a lot of very good players, and it wasn’t until later in the season that they let Powell shine. In his limited opportunities, he was able to make a impact and become a big name to most college football fans. Powell has terrific big play ability, but he doesn’t quite have the speed that will allow him to punish defenses with his run after the catch.
Given his lack of true speed, he will struggle to find opportunities with the Chiefs who are known for having a great deal of speed with their receivers. He doesn’t display great catch in traffic ability, but he also wasn’t given opportunities to display that.
Conclusion
Cornell Powell is a fantastic player, and the Chiefs scored with him, but his transition to the NFL could be rough. He was limited on opportunities at Clemson which means that his flaws in his game are very aware to the coaches. However, the Chiefs needed a receiver who could create plays and be a reliable target for Mahomes knowing that Hardman and Robinson may not be a reliable wide receiver two. If he can improve upon the momentum he started at Clemson, he could become a key player for the Chiefs looking forward.