“He’s super fast.”
Former Washington Redskins tight end Chris Cooley began his film review of Commanders third-round pick (100) Luke McCaffrey this way.
As a guest on “The Kevin Sheehan Show” podcast this week, Cooley mocked those who have characterized McCaffrey as a receiver who can’t make plays downfield. “Why? Because he’s a white receiver?” Cooley asked.
Cooley continued, “He tracks the ball incredibly well and can catch the ball. He’s got great ball skills,” referring to McCaffrey’s one-handed, all-hands catches.
The former Washington tight end and announcer also likes McCaffrey’s measurements: 4.46 (40 yards), 6-foot-2 height, 198 pounds and a 36-inch vertical jump. McCaffrey’s other measurements at the NFL Combine were broad jump (121), shuttle (4.02) and 3-cone (6.70).
Cooley gave a simple description of him: “Fearless, tough, good at running after the catch, good at finding open space, just an all-around player.”
“He can play in the slot, he can play on the outside, he can go over the middle and catch anywhere.”
“He’s pretty good at getting in and out of the break. He needs to get better at setting breaks and routes, but right now he’s been able to create separation.”
“He attacks the ball at the highest point and adjusts his body.”
“He’s a fearless blocker. He goes all out in the run game. He’s the type of guy who plays every snap.”
“He’s going to be a good (NFL) player.”
Keep in mind, Luke played quarterback at Rice and Nebraska before only playing receiver his final two years at Rice, meaning he’s still learning and developing at a “new” position.
Also, Luke’s father, Ed McCaffrey, played in 185 games in the NFL and had 565 receptions for 7,422 yards, including 55 touchdowns. McCaffrey averaged 13.1 yards per reception.
Luke’s older brother, Christian, followed in his father’s footsteps and is playing for Stanford University in the Pac-12 Conference. He’s had a stellar NFL career, rushing for 6,185 yards and 81 touchdowns in 91 NFL games.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire
