4. Kelvin Benjamin (FSU), Panthers – At 6’5″ and 240 lbs but only a 4.61 40-time, Benjamin was arguably the most polarizing receiving prospect from the 2014 draft. But he proved his incredible athletic potential during the Seminoles’ run to the National Championship season. After being taken by the Panthers with the 28th pick in the draft, Benjamin may get to start right away, especially since the Panthers let Steve Smith, Brandon LaFell and Ted Ginn leave in free agency, leaving very little receiving talent left. Benjamin should get plenty of time on the field, and considering the Panthers play only 5 games against a Top 10 defense in 2014, Benjamin should get a chance to make an impact very quickly.
3. Cody Latimer (Indiana), Broncos – Despite strong production at Indiana University, Cody Latimer was off the radar for most of the time leading up to the draft. Some had him as low as a 7th round pick. However, a phenomenal performance at his pro day opened eyes to his athletic ability and by the week before the draft he was viewed as a possible first round pick. Latimer eventually dropped to the 56th overall pick – but being taken by Peyton Manning’s Broncos will do wonders for his production in his first year. Latimer will have to compete with speedster Emmanuel Sanders to take over the WR spot Eric Decker left in free agency. But if Latimer can win it, he may be the most successful rookie receiver of 2014: the Broncos had an NFL record 4 receivers record 10 or more TDs in 2013.
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