Film Study: Jaelon Darden Is a Future Buccaneers Playmaker

[Jonnyeagle]

The prototypical slot receiver is a piece of the puzzle that the Buccaneers' offense has lacked thus far under head coach Bruce Arians, but has now acquired in Darden. Arians instead opts to put bigger, more physical receivers in the slot such as Chris Godwin or even Mike Evans on occasion. In 2020, the 6-foot-1, 209 pound Chris Godwin played 55% of his reps from the slot, where he is dangerous thanks to his glue-like hands and crispy route running. 

Although Darden specializes in the slot, his speed allows him to create separation when lined up outside, especially when running 9 (go) routes. With his 4.46 40 yard time and unbelievable 6.67 three-cone result (ranked in the 91st percentile), Darden is a speed demon with cutting agility that unlocks another dimension of Tampa Bay's offense. 

read more:  https://www.si.com/nfl/buccaneers/front-office/tampa-bay-buccaneers-jaelon-darden-scouting-report-nfl-draft