Stacy Coley is only being pegged as a late round pick bc these so callled CFB "analyst" and clueless nfl scouts really don't pay attention to CFB like they claim.
By the the time teams start really digging in watching film and evaluating players he is going to end up a late 1st round prospect easy.
Love the homer-ism, but let's be realistic here. I have been as big a Coley fan as there is since watching how smooth and effortless he was in those HS camp vids, but he is not a 1st round player nor did he live up to his incredible physical potential. He still might, but he has work to do (see below). Hopefully, he will continue to grow once he's in the league like Benjamin, Hurns, etc because he has the talent to stick in the league a long time.
- Toughness/Strength. Call it what you want, he is nicked a lot. That will draw scrutiny and criticism from NFL brass bc the pro game is that of attrition and toughness. He also needs to get stronger. He gets pushed off his routes often and needs to use his hands better to control the DB. I will give him credit with blocking. He shows effort and sticks with guys.
- Balance/YAC opportunities. Coley's balance and running style needs refining. He leans too far over his toes, throwing off his balance and consistently tripping over the dreaded turf monster and going down easily on tackles. You need to maximize YAC in the NFL. The space is limited and tackling is improved.
- Route Running. Coley is great at turning CBs and creating separation when he runs proper routes, especially with DBs in off-man and zone. But at times uses false steps off the line and after he catches the ball. With the limited time NFL QBs have to throw, and DBs closing quicker, he has to clean that up. Challenge is, that tends to be instinctual....tough habits to break. It can be though with repetition and good coaching.
- Hands are good, not great. Then again, the NFL is loaded with those guys.
If he does fall, i'd love to see him in aqua and orange. But for his sake, i hope he climbs the board.