Colts 2020 NFL Draft prospect: K.J. Hamler, WR, Penn State
K.J. Hamler Scouting Report
Height: 5’9″
Weight: 176 pounds
2019 Stats: 56 catches, 904 yards, 8 TDs
Route Running: K.J. Hamler is a very smooth route runner. He mostly operates out of the slot where he usually gets a free release, but he uses it to his advantage. Hamler uses his elite quickness to set up corners and can snap off routes at the top of his step while also possessing the burst to explode off his plant foot. He excels at both in-breaking and out-breaking routes with crisp footwork. He also uses a hand swipe at times to get free of contact. Hamler can benefit by learning to manipulate defensive backs more with his head and shoulders, but there is opportunity to develop that skill.
Release: Enjoys mostly free releases because he operates in the slot, but K.J. Hamler has the quickness to work a two way go in an offense. Can explode of a jab step release when he needs to, which is key to getting into an inside and outside stem. He will likely be able to work a speed release in the NFL to avoid a lot of contact, and it will be very effective.
Hands: There are some drops on tape with Hamler, but he’s overall solid in this area. His size limits his catch radius, and he does often let the ball into his body too much, but he has solid mitts and drops shouldn’t be an issue at the next level.
Ball Skills: With his small stature, Hamler won’t likely ever be winning in contested spots in the NFL. However, he does track the ball well when it’s in the air and makes great adjustments to the ball, whether that be getting his body turned or getting low to the ground to make a play.
YAC/RAC Ability: Hamler is just absurd after the catch. He has the speed to take a short pass for a touchdown at any moment. He can erase safety angles with ease and is a big time threat in any offense. Don’t forget about his quickness and the ability to make defenders miss. With the ball in his hands, he’s a problem for defenses.
Speed: Hamler has elite speed and uses it to his advantage, either before or after the catch. Expect him to run in 4.3s at the scouting combine. Can win vertically or horizontally with the speed he possesses.
Versatility: It’s likely that K.J. Hamler will be a slot receiver in the NFL and won’t get many reps on the perimeter. But, with his speed and ability after the catch, he can get the ball in a variety of ways, whether it be screens, jet sweeps, or reverses. He also brings return value to the table.
Blocking: His frame doesn’t limit him in this area. He’s extremely feisty and physical as a blocker, along with being willing to block all the way down the field.
Play Strength: This will be a weakness for him, as his frame will limit his ability to win with play strength. However, he is a feisty player and won’t go down easily in the open field.