Replacing Amari Cooper in Cowboys NFL Draft: Xavier Hutchinson at ‘Power Slot’?
Since the controversial trade of ex-perimeter wide receiver Amari Cooper last offseason, the Dallas Cowboys have been searching for help on the outside.
A big-name free agent or trade? Maybe.
Or, might they better served by snagging a sizable slot prospect in the upcoming 2023 draft?
If so, the Cowboys could opt for a bit poetic justice by seeking help at the “Y” by drafting an “X” — as in Iowa State receiver Xavier Hutchinson.
Alpha wideout CeeDee Lamb led the team in 2022 with 107 receptions for 1359 yards and nine scores, cementing his status as the team’s No. 1 option at the position.
However, the cupboard in the Cowboys’ receivers room is a bit bare, beyond Lamb. Michael Gallup finished the season with 39 catches for 424 and four touchdowns — a far cry from the totals of their ‘WR1.’ Veteran Noah Brown also added 555 yards with three touchdowns.
Is a non-premium pick going to deliver Amari-like talent? No. But there are only so many picks and only so much cap room.
Dallas needs to hit on guys elsewhere.
The Cyclones’ standout is a versatile receiver with good size (6-3, 205) and the ability to get open in numerous ways. Hutchinson possesses the strength to resist arm tackles and gain significant yards after the catch. As such, he may be better suited to a move inside as a big slot option in Dallas’ offense under Mike McCarthy and new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. As such, Hutchinson may be an heir apparent to the impending-free agent Brown at the “Y” receiver position.
Hutchinson does come with his drawbacks, as well. His down-field speed, or lack thereof, has drawn concern from several draft scouts and analysts. As a result, his suspect ability to separate vertically may hinder his chances of reaching his full potential.
Currently projected as a mid-round selection by many, Hutchinson’s services could be secured with Dallas’ pick No. 90 in the third round - though lasting into the third round is largely unlikely.
While he does not project as a Cooper-like talent, he could fulfill the Cowboys’ need as a power slot receiver in short order.
Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL
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