Panthers add to passing arsenal, move up to take WR Devin Funchess
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The Carolina Panthers have selected receiver Devin Funchess out of Michigan in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
The Panthers moved up from 57 to 41 in the second round to make the selection. They gave up 57th overall in addition to their third- and sixth-round picks to complete the trade.
Cam Newton has a penchant for throwing high balls and general manager David Gettleman appears keen on adding big bodied receivers to help his quarterback cope.
Funchess is a similar player to breakout rookie Kelvin Benjamin but could be moved inside to play in the slot or as an athletic tight end.
Devin Funchess Bio
Position: WR/TE
School: Michigan
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-4
Weight: 232 lbs.
Age: 20
Combine Results
| Event | Result |
|---|---|
| 40-yd Dash | 4.70 sec |
| Bench Press | 17 reps |
| Vertical Jump | 38.5 inches |
| Broad Jump | 122 inches |
| 3-Cone Drill | N/A |
| 20-yd Shuttle | N/A |
Strengths
- Good athlete who can create size mismatches if used out wide.
- Has the length to be a major factor in the red zone.
- Works the middle of the field well. Could make his living in the NFL pulling away from linebackers on crossing routes.
- Strong leaping ability. Shows excellent body control to continue in stride after climbing the ladder to pull in a reception.
Weaknesses
- Too small to be a full-time tight end and too slow to be an elite receiver. Only posted a 4.7 40 time at the combine.
- Below-average hands led to drop issues at Michigan.
- Catches awkwardly at times and lunges at the ball with his hands instead of cradling it in.
- Doesn't do enough after the catch for someone his size. Shies away from contact and gets taken down too easily by smaller defenders.