Key Stat Proves KJ Hamler Was Second-Round Steal for Broncos

The Denver Broncos went all-in on improving their offense this offseason. Highlighted by big-name acquisitions like Jerry Jeudy and Melvin Gordon, Drew Lock will now be surrounded by one of the league's best skill-position groups.

But while the Jeudy addition has grabbed most of the headlines, one key stat proves that drafting KJ Hamler in the second round might've been a flat-out steal.

Likely playing in the slot alongside big-bodied wideouts in Courtland Sutton and Jeudy, Hamler should excel in that role for Denver. According to Pro Football Focus, Hamler generated a whopping 41 plays of 15-plus yards out of the slot since 2018. That's good for the third-best mark in the FBS.

Though he didn't run the 40-yard dash at the 2020 NFL Combine, Hamler showcased his dynamic athleticism early and often at Penn State. He averaged 18.0 yards per reception in 2018, and followed that up by averaging 16.1 yards per reception last season. Hamler is going to be difficult to cover at the NFL level, especially when surrounded by all that talent in Denver.

Not only was Hamler one of the most electric receivers available in the NFL Draft, it looks like he's going to be an exceptional fit in the Broncos' offense. That perfect marriage of talent and scheme fit could lead to Hamler being one of the best under-the-radar picks of the season.

Get $5 FREE when you sign up for FanDuel Racing, plus we’ll match your first deposit in site credit up to $50!

Max Staley is not a FanDuel employee. In addition to providing DFS gameplay advice, Max Staley also participates in DFS contests on FanDuel using his personal account, username mstaley1212. While the strategies and player selections recommended in his articles are his personal views, he may deploy different strategies and player selections when entering contests with his personal account. The views expressed in their articles are the author's alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of FanDuel.