ASU Football: Wide receiver Frank Darby declares for the 2021 NFL Draft

Frank Darby is attempting to join N’Keal Harry and Brandon Aiyuk as pro Sun Devil wide receivers. On Monday, Darby released a video on Twitter to declare for the 2021 NFL Draft.

Darby saw limited action during the 2020 season as he didn’t play against Oregon State and missed most of the season opener against USC.

He caught six passes for 46 yards and a score. Over his four-year career at Arizona State, Darby finished with 67 receptions, 1317 yards and 13 touchdowns.

It’s unlikely Darby goes in the first round like Harry and Aiyuk. However, he certainly can find a place on an NFL roster as a deep threat and possibly a returner.

Here is what Drae Harris at The Draft Network wrote about Darby:

“Pros: Frank Darby aligns at WR for the Sun Devil offense. He is a good athlete with regards to agility, body control and quickness. He is good in the passing game due to his toughness and competitiveness. He gets off the line with good releases due to his foot quickness and hand usage. He then creates separation against man coverage with creative route running and sufficient separation quickness at the top of the route. He demonstrates good hands by catching the ball away from his frame, although he’s had some instances of body catches. He shows his competitiveness in contested catch situations. He does a good job of sitting in holes underneath on read routes. He is a good blocker in the run game and has no problem mixing it up with linebackers. He demonstrates some inside/outside flexibility on 3rd downs and projects with good special teams value, as well.”

“Cons: Darby lacks the ideal catch radius. He doesn’t consistently create separation against man coverage, forcing him into contested catch situations. He does his best work in the short to intermediate range and is probably best suited to play in the slot due to his grit, toughness and instincts to find holes underneath.”