Oklahoma star could fall to the Arizona Cardinals in the second-round

Due to a foot injury and a questionable frame, the Arizona Cardinals might have a chance to steal one of the most explosive players of the 2019 draft class in the second round.

Just a couple of months ago, Oklahoma wide receiver Marquise Brown was generally regarded as a top-15 pick in the 2019 draft. But in February, reports of a fairly severe injury suffered by Brown at the end of the 2018 college football season slowed that talk down.

Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, Brown had surgery for a LisFranc injury (foot) which prevented him from participating in the combine — an event that many thought would improve his draft stock.

However, despite the severity of the injury, Brown should be available for summer camp. But, there might be more cause for concern. Due to the receiver’s game based off of sharp footwork and speed, the receiver dubbed ‘Hollywood’ might have a longer path to full recovery than most.

But, if Brown’s injury alone doesn’t dissuade some teams from using a first-rounder on him, factoring in his smaller 5-9, 166-lb frame could do the trick. Because no matter how good he is, a lot of executives could shy away from using a first-round pick on a smaller receiver coming off a major foot injury.

That doesn’t mean he wouldn’t be the perfect game at the top of the second round though.

If the Cardinals do see the receiver fall to the second-round, don’t be surprised if Steve Keim uses the 33rd pick on him. Yes, he has a foot injury and smaller frame, but he also has the potential to be a game-breaking receiver similar to the likes of DeSean Jackson.

Hollywood Brown has the top-end speed to burn trails in the field, and the short area quickness to quite possibly break ankles in the NFL. His ability to create separation and run precise routes no matter the distance will also make him a threat as an outside receiver or in the slot.

Brown’s might also be the best receiver in the 2019 class with the ball in his hands. Per Pro Football Focus, Brown had 639 yards after the catch in 2018. Because of his speed, vision, and elusiveness, he will surely be utilized on sweeps and screens in the NFL.

However, Brown has weaknesses outside of his injury and frame. He won’t be a guy that wins 50/50 balls regularly. His game runs through his feet and the will to get himself open, which makes his injury so scary. But, if he does slip out of the first round, the Cardinals would have a hard time turning down an opportunity to add a playmaker that can revitalize their offense.

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