Colts add to receiving corps with Parris Campbell selection

The Indianapolis Colts selected wide receiver Parris Campbell out of Ohio State with the 59th overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft.

The Colts ranked sixth in the league in passing offense despite T.Y. Hilton being the only wideout to top 425 yards. Tight end Eric Ebron ranked second on the team with 750 yards and a team-leading 13 touchdowns.

General manager Chris Ballard has put a focus on restocking the receiving unit, adding Devin Funchess through free agency.

Although Campbell profiles as a similar talent to Hilton, he could operate primarily from the slot.

Prospect profile

School: Ohio State
Height: 6-0
Weight: 205 lbs

Strengths

• Offensive weapon who excels in space
• High football IQ - understands matchups and consistently locates soft spots in zone coverage
• Can separate with ease due to blazing speed
• Versatile and productive as a slot receiver
• Elusive and changes direction very well
• Burner who stretches defenses
• Unstoppable on drag routes
• Able to make tacklers miss in open field

Weaknesses

• Route-running precision has grown each year, but still needs fine-tuning
• Loses separation ability when knocked off route
• Limited route tree in college
• Had a few too many drops over last two seasons
• Doesn't make many catches in traffic
• Inexperienced versus press coverage

Bottom line

Campbell is a Swiss Army knife offensive weapon with fluid athleticism and playmaking ability. The former Buckeye standout has the versatility to line up as a speedy Z receiver or intriguing slot weapon in the pros. He's not a player best suited for contact, and it'll be up to the league's brightest offensive minds to scheme the ball into his hands to receive his full value. They won't be sorry.