Is Slade Bolden Making A Mistake?
Alabama slot receiver Slade Bolden has declared for the NFL Draft. Bolden is forgoing his senior season in which he would’ve been one of, if not the top option for Bryce Young in the 2022 season. Jameson Williams and John Metchie also declared which would have given a lot more opportunities to Bolden. Because of the COVID year, he had two years of eligibility remaining. Despite the star power on the outside, Bolden was still third on the team in receptions with 42. He also had 408 yards and three touchdowns.
Is It Enough?
Folks, I like a good slot receiver as much as the next guy and stats don’t tell the whole story. But, 408 yards is a pretty low total for a starting D1 receiver, let alone an Alabama receiver. With the two years of eligibility, he could have helped his draft stock skyrocket. Bolden believes what he put on tape is good enough to attract the attention of at least one NFL team. His 40 yard dash time is a 4.69. He is not considered a burner. That isn’t a huge knock on a slot receiver, but something teams will have to take into account.
Positive Traits
Slade Bolden is a former quarterback which helps with his vision and seeing the field. It also means he’s fairly intelligent. That’s a really important quality that teams don’t always publizcie that they are looking for, but there are teams that list that as one of their top priorities. Nick Saban has also praised his quickness, instincts, hands, and also his intelligence. One other important factor that was brought up was his work ethic.
The Market
Right off the bat, a few teams come to mind when you think of a need for a weapon in the slot. One team that has been brought up before is the Patriots. Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston called him the prototypical Patriots slot receiver. The Ravens are also in need of a true slot. That could really elevate their offense. How about the Lions? The fans in Motown love a grinder who never quits. Sounds like Bolden fits the bill. I’ll throw in one more team that might be a dark horse landing spot for him, the Cleveland Browns. Jarvis Landry is getting older. Bolden is mostly viewed so far as a late round pick which could mean that he may start his career his a backup/special teams player. He does have some experience as a returner as well. If he goes to the Browns and grinds while he waits his turn, he will get rewarded.
Final Thoughts
There is a chance Slade Bolden gets buried in the draft with all of the talent coming out. That’s why not taking advantage of his two years remaining could be costly. Is there a chance he goes undrafted? I’d say 50/50 just because of the star power he has to compete with. He has some skills that will make plenty of offenses better. The question is will teams see that, or will he get overlooked?
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We’ve got plenty more to come on The Announcer’s Eye, stay tuned!