Dri

Archer

His “official” forty time was even faster, clocking 4.26 -- two hundredths of a second shy of Chris Johnson’s Combine record of 4.24. Archer was fully expected to run well in Indy. He projects as a versatile gadget-type player in the NFL, who may wind up seeing most of his snaps at slot receiver and on special teams. Archer measured in at 5-foot-8 and 173 pounds.

It’s the same as his college listing. Archer is coming off an injury-plagued 2013 season and has both size and durability concerns, but was one of the most explosive players in the country when healthy. He could be asked to move to receiver full-time in the NFL. Archer plans on running a 4.21 forty-yard dash at the Combine, which would break Chris Johnson’s previous record of 4.24.

A blown 2014 third-round pick of the Steelers, Archer was cut by Pittsburgh last November and didn’t resurface the rest of the season. The Jets signed him to a reserve/future deal in February, but saw enough at rookie minicamp.

A wasted third-round pick of the Steelers in 2014, Archer could not even make it to OTAs with the Jets before being waived. A track star without much football ability, Archer is a great fit in Buffalo.

It opens up a spot on the 90-man roster. The Bills claimed Archer off waivers from the Jets earlier this month. He’s apparently contemplating his future in the sport after doing absolutely nothing through his first two years.

Archer lost his return duties last season after managing a 17.9-yard average on nine attempts. He was similarly ineffective on 17 offensive touches. Coach Mike Tomlin insists he remains “excited” about last year’s third-round pick, though 5-foot-8, 173-pound scatbacks rarely develop into much in the pros. “He is a good guy,” Tomlin said. “He is a smart guy. He is hard working. He has all the variables that usually produce a positive outcome. We’re going to give him an opportunity.”

The franchise sees Archer as a kick and punt return prospect with some ability to be an “X factor” on offense. He’s essentially OC Todd Haley’s new Dexter McCluster. At 5'8/173, Archer is not a good bet for long-term fantasy impact.

He added two carries for nine yards. Archer lived up to his “offensive weapon” billing, turning in the play of the night with a 46-yard reception. Coming out of the slot, Archer caught a screen and was off to the races, going sideline to sideline in the process. Archer isn’t going to make much of a fantasy impact as a gadget player, but could be an important part of the Steelers’ offense this season.

A pint-sized 5-foot-9, 167 pounds, Archer will feature on special teams, but not on offense. He’ll likely be a gadget player as OC Todd Haley’s new Dexter McCluster. Archer is a low-ceiling commodity in Dynasty leagues.

Tomlin called Archer a “speed guy” the Steelers want to get touches in multiple roles. Archer played both positions at Kent State and has experience as a slot receiver. It’s possible Archer will be limited to returning kicks as a rookie, but he has potential to make an impact in four-wide and change-of-pace packages.