A receiver that runs a 4.3 instead of say, a 4.45, is mainly going to make a significant impact when he gets a clear reception so that he can outrun the DBs, but he first has to get open, and how often does a speedy receiver just run a simple post or fly pattern? That kind of pattern would open up the field somewhat for a tight end, possession receiver or running back, but it just isn't used that often, defenses are more complex than that, it's not just a case of like a Bob Hayes just lining up and beating the DB on pure speed.
Don't get me wrong, I'd love to have a 4.3 receiver on the team (if he can catch well), it's just that the advantage of that guy is most useable when the rest of the team is good, and if the Cowboys spend the no. 17 pick on such a player, not going to do much good if Dak is getting buried under a rush because the o-line is porous, or there's no tight end, slot receiver to make the defense pay attention to somebody other than your speed guy, or if the defense lets other teams run all over you and force you to have to score 35 pts or more every game.
It's about balance, and besides, Amari ran a 4.42 at the combine just a few years ago, most of the fastest receivers run in the mid 4.3s, that's only about .07 seconds faster, it's not like the db has to back way off, the couple of feet or so isn't much advantage.
Looking at it another way, the fastest 40 yard guys at the combine include players such as Tyrone Calico, J.J. Nelson, Jacoby Ford and Jerome Mathis. How many of those have turned into top NFL receivers. Nelson had 186 receptions in 4 years then was out of the league, for example. Yet he ran in the 4.2s! If speed is so valuable, why'd he not do much? It's still a team sport, have to have the rest of the team up to snuff to use that, and the Cowboys have too many areas that aren't.
Have to look at more than pure speed for your receiving corps.
This...and it’s not just WR everyone loses there minds when players run fast at the combine.
I like Ruggs. I think he’s more than just a speed WR and can be a solid pro but when you’re in the top 20, even 1st round, I’m looking for the talent / athleticism to match the production. I understand Bama had other great talents to throw to, but 2 seasons in a row under 800 yards and 60 catches
This...and it’s not just WR everyone loses there minds when players run fast at the combine.
I like Ruggs. I think he’s more than just a speed WR and can be a solid pro but when you’re in the top 20, even 1st round, I’m looking for the talent / athleticism to match the production. I understand Bama had other great talents to throw to, but 2 seasons in a row under 800 yards and 60 catches.