Getting To Know . . . Rookie WR Donovan Kemp Gets More Reps

Position: Wide Receiver
Height/Weight: 6-1, 195
Age: 23
College: UTEP
NFL Exp: Rookie
How Acquired: FA for ‘12
Hometown: Desoto, Tex.

Fitting in: Donavon Kemp was picked up as an undrafted free agent this offseason. While he originally seemed to be a long shot to make the final 53, the injury to Saalim Hakim, the departure of Cole Beasley and the general uncertainty of the third receiver spot, should all result in Kemp having increased reps moving forward and a chance to make his case for his spot on the team.

So Far: Kemp has proven to be a good route runner with great hands. When he has had free access to run his routes the end results have typically been positive. However, like many young receivers, he often struggles in his route when faced with physical press coverage. He will have to work on handling that physicality in order to be more consistent in his routes. In Sunday’s Blue-White scrimmage, Kemp got plenty of reps and even caught a touchdown from Kyle Orton.

Best Asset: Besides great hands and good route running, Kemp believes he can be an immediate contributor on special teams. He says, “As of right now and the situation I’m currently in, being able to contribute on special teams would be great. I feel like I can do well wherever I fit in, but my major part this year could be on special teams.”

You Should Know: Kemp has played football in the state of Texas at every level. He grew up in Dallas and played for DeSoto High School and played college ball at the University of Texas at El Paso. He now has a chance to play for the team that he grew up rooting for.

Talking Point: “I was born and raised in Dallas and I’ve been a Dallas Cowboys fan since I was born. This is an absolute dream come true. It’s already hard to make it in the NFL and just to have a chance to make it on your home team is a blessing from God.”