Bruce Ellington, Wide Receiver: Kansas City Chiefs Scouting Report

Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

With the 2014 NFL Draft just days away, it’s time to really dive into the players that the KC Chiefs actually have a shot at landing. A few days ago, Mel Kiper Jr. and Todd McShay hosted the first ever live mock draft on ESPN. The two had the Chiefs taking Marqise Lee with the 23rd overall pick. While many weren’t surprised with this mock pick, a more surprising selection came at pick 26 from the Cleveland Browns (via the Indianapolis Colts).

Bruce Ellington (of South Carolina) is a solid receiver, but many analysts had him pegged as more of a second, third, or even fourth round talent. If the latter is true, then perhaps the Chiefs have a chance at grabbing him later on.

Ellington was a terrific target for Gamecocks quarterback Connor Shaw last season. Ellington recorded 49 receptions for 775 yards and eight touchdowns.

Bruce Ellington Combine Results

40-yard dash – 4.45 seconds

Bench press – 15 reps

Vertical jump – 39.5 inch*

Broad jump – 120.0 inch

3-cone drill – 6.69 seconds

20-yard shuttle – 3.95 seconds*

60-yard shuttle – 11.12 seconds*

* = Combine top performer 

(Courtesy of NFL.com)

"“Bursts off the line. Eliminates cushion and threatens vertically. Field-fast — accelerates in a hurry and turns over a fluid stride. Highly athletic. Excellent balance and agility. Gets in and out of cuts quickly. Good hands. Can turn a short throw into a long gain. Is not afraid to work the middle and take a hit to make a play. Tough and competitive. Has traits to be considered as a kick returner. Highly respected with special intangibles — leads by example and is smart, determined and hardworking.” – Bruce Ellington’s strengths according to NFL.com analyst Nolan Nawrocki"

Say Kansas City drafts a wide receiver in the first round. Now say Bruce Ellington is available in a later round. Do the Chiefs take him? They sure could use the help especially if Ellington could be a kick or punt returner for the Chiefs.

"“Is short and small-framed — durability could be an issue. Could stand to become a more nuanced route runner. Can be outmuscled in a crowd — not a go-up-and-get-it guy. Limited run strength. Underpowered blocker. Too often was a non-factor — was held to one catch or less in five games as a junior. Was not a home-run hitter in the return game. Split his time with basketball.” – Ellington’s weaknesses according to Nawrocki"

While Ellington has been projected by many to go in the later rounds, why did Todd McShay have him going at pick 26?

"“While other projected No.2 wideouts have garnered more attention, Ellington could be the sneaky pick that gives Cleveland what they need the most in both speed, good hands and a vertical and speedy threat capable of making big plays on his own.” – Robert D. Cobb of The Inscriber Mag"

For all of our wide receiver scouting reports, just click here.

What are your thoughts on this Chiefs Kingdom? If Bruce Ellington is still available in later rounds, would you want the Chiefs to scoop him up? Leave your comments below and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Like us on Facebook!