STRENGTHS - Swope runs his routes at full speed and can pluck the ball away from his body without breaking stride. He is capable of running precise routes and uses his short area quickness and ability to change speed to consistently gain separation in and out of his breaks when given a free release. He runs through contact after the catch and is able to consistently pick up additional yardage.
WEAKNESSES - Swope has a thin frame and must add another 10-15 lbs. of muscle in order to better withstand the punishment he will receive at the next level. Because of his lack of bulk and natural strength he is consistently knocked off line by aggressive defenders in press coverage and must learn to his hands to better protect his frame. He is a catch blocker that lacks the strength to sustain blocks and must become more aggressive at the POA. While he possesses good short area quickness he is not an explosive athlete and lacks the speed needed to run away from defenders downfield. He had multiple fumbles in games I viewed and must do a better job of securing the ball against his body after the catch.
SUMMARY - Ryan Swope was a productive, dependable receiver out of the slot for Texas A&M and possesses a skill set that will translate nicely to the NFL. He has the soft hands needed to consistently snare off target balls and is fearless going into traffic despite his slight frame. While he lacks the explosiveness to ever be a home run threat he displays the foot quickness and COD ability needed to run precise routes and create separation naturally on his breaks. In order to elevate his game for the next level he must become a more physical player not just as a blocker but while running his routes as well, as he tends to get knocked around too easily by defensive backs in press coverage and aggressive linebackers playing zone. He must also learn to hold the ball tighter against his body, as he tends to run with the ball exposed and leave himself susceptible to getting stripped. Swope has a chance to become a productive #3 or #4 WR and special teams player, and don't be surprised if a team in desperate need of reliable skill position upgrades like Miami (his 2011 head coach and QB are both Dolphins) take him early on day three. .