Anthony Schwartz Brings Elite Speed to the Browns' Offense
Every year, there are some players who get drafted into the NFL who are part track star, and Auburn's Anthony Schwartz qualifies this year.
Schwartz logged a 4.27-second 40-yard-dash at his pro day, which -- when adjusted for his size -- puts him into the 83rd percentile in speed score, via PlayerProfiler, among wide receiver prospects.
His production profile raises some flags, though.
Who does Schwartz compare to historically, and what is his rookie-year outlook for the Cleveland Browns?
Player Comparisons
Brandon Gdula's draft database has found these 10 prior prospects to have the most similar statistical profiles to Schwartz. Keep in mind that these are based not on play style or traits but age, athleticism, draft equity, experience, efficiency, and production.
| Anthony Schwartz Profile Comparisons | Similarity |
|---|---|
| Dante Pettis | 88.7% |
| Rashad Greene | 88.4% |
| Emmanuel Sanders | 88.3% |
| TJ Graham | 87.7% |
| Lavelle Hawkins | 87.5% |
| Travis Benjamin | 86.5% |
| Markus Wheaton | 86.4% |
| Randall Cobb | 86.3% |
| Keke Coutee | 85.7% |
| Jalen Saunders | 85.3% |
Gdula's Take: Schwartz is light -- ranking in the sixth percentile in weight in my model -- but has a better-than-average breakout age and brings elite speed. However, without a ton of efficiency or production at Auburn and with a lot of manufactured work (PFF clocked him with the third-most screen catches in the NCAA last year), it's hard to see a consistent producer. He profiles as more of a boom-or-bust threat.
Schwartz' 2021 Fantasy Football Projection
JJ Zachariason's initial projections for Schwartz include 15 receptions, 213 yards, and 1.5 touchdowns, making him the PPR WR112 for the season.
On FanDuel Sportsbook, the Browns are listed at +1800 to win the Super Bowl and +145 to win the AFC North, and they have a win total projection of 9.5 -- with -143 odds on the over -- on FOX Bet. That places them firmly in the top half of the NFL.
