Atlanta Falcons 2016 Scouting Report: WR Pharoh Cooper

Oct 17, 2015; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks wide receiver Pharoh Cooper (11) makes a catch during the second half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

The 2016 NFL Draft will be a prominent hub for the Atlanta Falcons to gain a play-maker or two to aid Julio Jones and Devonta Freeman on offense. One player to keep an eye on is South Carolina wide receiver Pharoh Cooper.

Simply put, Cooper is a play-maker. The South Carolina Gamecocks relied on Cooper the past few seasons to provide sparks and he did that plus more. Former Gamecocks head coach Steve Spurrier devised ways to get the ball in Cooper’s hands. From the Wildcat to direct handoffs to lining up in the slot and on the boundary. Let’s take a look at the scouting report on this dynamic weapon.

Pharoh Cooper

Height: 5-11

Weight: 210 lbs.

2014 stats: 69 catches, 1,136 yards, 9 TDs, 27 carries, 200 yards, 2 TDs

Strengths: The versatility is the first thing that’s noticeable about Cooper. As stated before, he was lined up pretty much everywhere on offense including the occasional play at QB as well as punt/kickoff return….Really good hands even for a player his size….Dangerous in bubble screens and able to score at any given opportunity…..2015 numbers may not be a bright spot for some but it should be considered that USC had a very inconsistent QB situation….The elusiveness is evident and will be a solid YAC producer in the right offense.

Weaknesses: Not the best route runner which can be an issue in a timing-based offense….The skill-set screams slot receiver as well as the size limitations…Not the best of blockers, something to key in on in a ZBS offense such as Atlanta’s….Doesn’t show much aggressiveness to attack the ball.

Bottom line: Cooper is a stud. A true threat. Similarities include Stefon Diggs/Tavon Austin. While he may not be the true #2 WR that many Falcons fans desire, it’s never a bad idea to have a versatile weapon like Cooper on offense.