Denzel Mims: Unraveling the Journey of a Second-Round Pick
The NFL Draft is an exciting time for both players and fans alike. For athletes, it marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, with the hope of being selected by an NFL team to play at the highest level of the sport. Denzel Mims, the talented wide receiver out of Baylor, experienced this thrill when he was chosen in the 2020 NFL Draft. In this blog post, we will explore the details of Denzel Mims’ draft journey, his impressive college career, and his transition to the professional ranks.
A Second-Round Selection:
Denzel Mims was highly regarded in the lead-up to the 2020 NFL Draft. His exceptional size, standing just under 6-foot-3, and well-muscled 207-pound frame, combined with explosive athleticism and downfield playmaking ability, made him a coveted prospect. The New York Jets recognized his potential and selected him in the second round as the 59th overall pick.
College Success at Baylor:
Mims’ journey to the NFL began at Baylor University, where he showcased his talent and potential as a wide receiver. Over his three college seasons with the Bears, he recorded an impressive 28 receiving touchdowns, proving to be a red-zone threat for his team. Additionally, Mims achieved the prestigious 1,000-yard mark in two seasons (2017 and 2019), displaying his consistency and production as a pass-catcher.
Validation at the NFL Scouting Combine:
Denzel Mims’ athletic prowess was further validated at the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine. His impressive blend of size and speed on display during the combine impressed scouts and NFL executives alike. Mims blazed through the 40-yard dash in 4.38 seconds, demonstrating his speed and explosiveness. Additionally, his 38-inch vertical leap and exceptional 3-cone time of 6.66 seconds highlighted his agility and athleticism.
Challenges in the NFL:
Despite his standout college career and impressive physical attributes, Denzel Mims faced challenges during his transition to the NFL. In his first three seasons with the Jets, he struggled to replicate the same level of production he achieved in college. He has caught just 42 passes in 92 targets for 676 yards and is still searching for his first NFL touchdown. Drops have been a concern, and he’s been credited with seven drops, which is one for every six catches.
Denzel Mims’ journey from a highly-touted second-round pick to finding his footing in the NFL is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional football. While his college success and athletic potential made him a sought-after prospect, the transition to the NFL has presented its challenges. However, Mims is only entering his fourth NFL season, and he still has time to grow and develop as a player. As he continues to work hard and hone his skills, the potential for Denzel Mims to make a significant impact in the NFL remains a possibility. Football fans will undoubtedly keep an eye on his progress, rooting for his success in the years to come.
