The long-term potential is there

It’s important that long-term potential is strongly considered when making draft selections in the first round. While there are more polished receivers from a ‘ready to make an impact from day one’ standpoint that could be had at No. 21, the Eagles would be prioritizing potential with Denzel Mims.

There is an effective balance of speed (4.38 40-yard dash), size (6-foot, 3-inches), and elusiveness that make Mims stand out as having a high-ceiling. When factoring in that he uses that size and speed to be able to play both in the slot and out on the boundary, there’s added reason for intrigue.

For a receiver with such a wide catch radius coupled with athletic ability and size, it’s easy to see why a team would be infatuated with his potential. He has already shown improvement in his route-running at the Senior Bowl and that’s added reason to believe that potential can turn to further results.

Let’s not forget, the long strides, build-up speed, stair-stepping, and stugger-go move on routes he possesses are real assets. In addition, he is impactful at adjusting to the ball when it’s in the air and can use his tremendous catch radius to haul-in passes that otherwise are unlikely to be caught.

Basically, there are real intangibles that Mims has that make him a high ceiling receiver in the NFL while also being able to contribute from day one. Prioritizing a higher-floor, lower-ceiling receiver would be a short-term minded decision and wouldn’t be the best move for the Eagles.