Arizona Cardinals Draft Profile: Odell Beckham Jr.

Aug 31, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; LSU Tigers receiver Odell Beckham Jr (3) can not come up with the catch against Texas Christian Horned Frogs cornerback Jason Verrett (2) in the third quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead to the NFL draft next week, one of the names that comes up from time to time for the Arizona Cardinals is LSU’s Odell Beckham Jr.  The wide receiver is not necessarily something the Cards need to look at early but it is an area they should address in the draft at some point given the need to find a third receiver to replace Andre Roberts.  Will he be available for the Cards at number 20?  We will find out on Thursday evening.  Draft time is 5pm Arizona time.

Wide receiver hasn’t generally been a position discussed much as a possibility for the Cards in the first round but I have seen several people here and there discuss the possibility.  The one that does come up as a possible fit is Beckham.

Beckham is fast and explosive off the line of scrimmage.  He has the ability to grab a lot of balls others might not necessarily be able to.  Does that remind you of anyone?  He’s known for his good hands and footwork as well.  These are things that will get you drafted in the NFL and be successful.

His height is a concern.  He stands just 5’11.  He also has been knocked for missing blocking assignments.  That is something that can get you in Cards head coach doghouse in a hurry.  If you are a receiver in his scheme, you must be able to block as well as catch the ball.  I don’t know though if that would be enough for the Cards not to take a chance on him.

On a scale of one to 10 with 10 being the highest probability that the Cards will draft Beckham, I give it a 4.  The need is there for a third receiver but with Ted Ginn Jr. already in the house competing, I think there are greater needs if you are the Cards and have decided to hold your pick for the first round.