Malik Magic

photo courtesy of the Napa Valley Register

We haven't really discussed too many dual-threat players for the 2014 class, until now. I found film and a possible steal from the Napa County region in California in the form of this wide receiver/defensive back.

Malik Beachum is quietly starting to gain ground on the recruiting trail with attending various college camps. He's yet to be offered, but after breaking down his film, he's got to be one of the best athletes in the Bay and possibly the state.

On offense, I love Beachum's explosiveness off the line. However, I was more in awe of his play making ability.

He's got an impressive vertical jump for a guy who's 5-foot-10 and has shown to beat defenders for the jump ball one-on-one. He's got soft hands and his body control after the catch will also attract college programs who may be looking to add receivers. It's his ability after the catch, though, that makes him explosive. He's shown a fast second gear after the catch and can stretch the field for the 50-70 yard touchdown.

Defensively, let's just say, he looks as if he's a wide receiver wanting the football. Beachum has a nose for the ball and will chase after it. He's got long enough arms to swat the football down or go for the diving pick. Even at 5-foot-10, he didn't come off as a guy who was hesitant about throwing his body around. He'll look to blow plays and wide receivers up with his aggressive nature.

Bulk is what he's lacking right now, plus true size at being a wide receiver or cover cornerback. I'll also be curious to see how he does in the press coverage, since he seemed to play more of a zone at American Canyon High School. A scheme like that, however, takes advantage of his closing speed. 

In conclusion, Beachum will either give an offense a big-play threat, or give a defense an aggressive ball-hawk. In the classroom, he's carrying a core 2.7 grade point average. Probably only a matter of time before he lands offer No. 1.

More on Beachum can be found here.