The Los Angeles Rams began Day 3 of the 2020 NFL Draft with a trade. They traded pick 126 to the Houston Texans in exchange for picks 136, 248 and 250. The Rams used their 136th pick to select Purdue TE Brycen Hopkins.
In truth, the TE position wasn’t a huge position of need. It’s not a huge surprise considering the Rams did interview TE prospects. That said, with Tyler Higbee and Gerald Everett on the roster, it will be difficult for Hopkins to see any playing time. Everett’s contract does expire in 2021 though, so Hopkins could play a backup role in the process.
Hopkins is an excellent route-runner that has no qualms about going in the middle of the field. He has great toughness and will take a fair amount of hits before finally being taken down. He has great instincts in the end zone and can be reliable in terms of being where he needs to be. One of the main reasons he dropped so far down is his hands. Didn’t have the most reliable hands and can be frustrating at times. His blocking skills are nothing special and will need improve to compete in the NFL.
In five seasons at Purdue, Hopkins earned 130 receptions for 1,945 yards and 16 touchdowns. Last season, he reeled in 60 receptions for 830 yards and seven touchdowns.
Source: Sports-Reference.com
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