2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Ladd McConkey

Strengths

• Legitimate speed to challenge the field vertically
• PhD in route running and separation, some lethal wiggle paired with technique
• Nose for space after the catch: 28 career forced missed tackles on 118 receptions, per PFF
• Versatile in usage and alignment, can be deployed in multiple ways

Weaknesses

• Slight: Wonder if he will be as effective playing on the line of scrimmage. Can he also be relied upon as a blocker?
• Hands aren’t as reliable as one would like, loses the ball vertically and the ball gets jarred out in traffic
• Limited at the catch point, don’t expect to see him on "You Got Mossed"

Final Thoughts and Chicago Bears Fit for Ladd McConkey

At face value, McConkey looks like a stereotypical white slot receiver who goes on Day 3 of the NFL Draft every year. The shoe fits when talking about his craftiness as a route runner and reliability in terms of always being an available target.

However, both of those skills are paired with legitimate athleticism, which is why McConkey is more than that blanket label. He can also be utilized downfield with his speed, on jet motions as a gadget player, or in the slot winning 1-on-1 battles.

McConkey is a universal player who can fit into almost any offense and play a handful of roles. A true WR1 ceiling may never be in the cards, but I feel confident about his floor as an excellent secondary option.

Regarding the Chicago Bears, McConkey could be a perfect Robin to DJ Moore's Batman. Think of a more useful version of Darnell Mooney — one that's more reliable in the shorter parts of the field. If teams decide to give Moore more attention (pun intended), McConkey can punish them.

Pro Comparison: Curtis Samuel