The 2020 undrafted rookies
Kendall Hinton, Wake Forest
Kendall Hinton made the transition to the wide receiver position in 2019 after playing quarterback for the Demon Deacons, and it proved to be a fruitful switch for him.
Playing mostly as a slot, Hinton racked up over 1,000 yards as a receiver and made some really tough catches, catches that have you wondering how this guy wasn’t a receiver all along.
Hinton showed all throughout last season that he can run routes and make difficult catches. The key is going to be competing against the speed of bigger, faster, more physical NFL defensive backs.
At this point, he should be considered a longshot for the roster but a fun developmental option and someone who could surprise with his strong hands.
Zimari Manning, Tarleton State
You’ve got to love small school sleeper prospects, right?
Zimari Manning might have been one of the players most affected by not having a Pro Day circuit this year.
The two-time Division II All-American and 2019 Harlon Hill (DII Heisman equivalent) finalist was one of the most dominant non-QBs among Division II prospects and despite being 6-foot-1, 200 pounds, he showed a level of physical dominance that was a sight to behold.
1-on-1 coverage against Zimari Manning?
— Tarleton Athletics (@TarletonSports) October 27, 2019
That's a bold strategy. Let's see if it pays off for 'em.
(🤫 it doesn't) pic.twitter.com/tMsRLqC9Hw
Manning didn’t get a chance to run and jump for scouts, but he put enough on tape to be signed immediately after the draft by the Broncos, who dipped their toes into the small school pool a couple of times in 2019 as well.
Although he was dominant at the DII level, Manning is going to have to prove he’s far ahead of the curve as far as whipping NFL defensive backs the way he did in college. It’s a whole different ball game. At this point, he should be expected to be a strong practice squad candidate in 2020.