After snagging the most dynamic and versatile speed receiver of this special 2020 wide receiver class, the Denver Broncos doubled down by selecting Penn State star, K.J. Hamler. Still only 20-years old, Denver’s second-round selection (46th overall) comes as a ready-made star from one of the most entertaining and explosive offenses in the country.

In truth, the Broncos aren’t even doubling down here, they grabbed an even more versatile and faster weapon than Jeudy, which is saying something, to play out of the slot. This pick gives the Orange & Blue an intimidating arsenal of weapons with Hamler, Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, Noah Fant, Melvin Gordon and Phillip Lindsay.

Suddenly, an offense that struggled to get open on critical third-and-medium situations has two quick receivers who are incredibly effective at getting open off their releases, making them almost impossible to cover off the snap if all they need is a relatively short gain.

Note: the scouting report is taken from the 2020 DNVR Draft Guide, Hamler’s report was written by Jake Schwanitz.

Strengths

• An extremely versatile WR for Penn State, has very good speed and route running. 

• Lined up mostly in the slot but also played outside, out of the backfield and as a returner for the Nittany Lions. 

• Has very good speed and demands coverage.

• Was used in the run game, screen game, intermediate areas of the field and as a deep threat.

• He’s a sufficient route runner that has a variety of releases in his repertoire and has nice change of direction skills as well as wiggle at the top of his routes. 

• Has very good run after the catch skills and is a home run hitter. 

• A tough football player that is competitive and willing to contribute as a blocker. 

• Hamler has sufficient hands.

Weaknesses

• The biggest weakness is his size, measuring in at 5-foot-9 and 178 pounds. 
• Durability will be a concern at that size. 
• Play strength is sufficient for his size but struggles to win contested-catch situations and can be overpowered when blocking linebackers and safeties. 
• Can be easily re-routed at the second level. 
• Has room to improve as a route runner and technician off the line of scrimmage.

Broncos Fit

K.J. Hamler is a weapon in today’s modern game. He can be utilized as a deep threat, on screens, reverses and with coaching and polish can develop into a good all-around NFL receiver.

The Broncos could use Hamler as a slot receiver and gadget player early on as a rookie. The hope is he can pack on a few extra pounds without losing speed in his first couple of years in an NFL strength and development program. He would be an instant upgrade at returner for the Broncos as well.