NFL
By: Lamarr Fields
Wide receiver Cam Coleman transferred from Auburn to Texas back in January. He was the No.2 player in ESPN’s transfer portal rankings. Last year at Auburn, Coleman had 56 catches for 708 yards and five touchdowns. With Coleman in the fold, Texas will look to take the next step.
Deep Threat
Coleman gives Texas Arch Manning a legitimate deep threat. He can attack vertically, win contested catches, and create separation on intermediate routes. That versatility makes it difficult for defensive coordinators to take away one portion of his game. Having a serious threat on the roster is a must; with the way referees call pass interference, it is worth taking a shot down the field a lot of times during a game. Coleman will thrive in the vertical game.
Size and Athleticism
Coleman is 6’3 “, 203 pounds and is very athletic. He can separate from defensive backs. In contrast, his size makes it difficult for smaller corners to handle him when the ball is in the air. A cornerback who gives Coleman too much space risks allowing him to build momentum on an intermediate route. A corner who plays aggressively has to be careful about getting beaten vertically.
Line Up Anywhere
With his receiver ability, Coleman could be moved around the formation. He doesn’t have to be treated like a receiver who lines up on the outside and runs a handful of routes. Put him in motion. Move him into the slot. Put him in bunch formations. Give him opportunities against linebackers or safeties. Then send him deep when the defense starts adjusting. The more defenses have to think about where he is going, the more opportunities Texas should have elsewhere.
Red Zone Target
With his size and athletic ability, Coleman will be effective in the red zone. Coleman can create separation and win jump balls in the red zone. Texas can put Coleman on the outside and give Manning a big target to throw to. A fade doesn’t have to be the only option, either. Coleman can work back-shoulder throws, slants, comebacks, and other routes where his frame becomes an advantage.
The receiver could be the missing piece to get the Longhorns to the National Championship. If they get it in his hands, Coleman will make plays. Texas will need to protect Manning better than they did last year so he has time to throw to Coleman.
