Scouting Florida football's former WR Chimere Dike ahead of the 2025 NFL draft

USA Today

19-04-2025

Scouting Florida football's former WR Chimere Dike ahead of the 2025 NFL draft
The Florida football program looks to continue its tradition of sending former players to the professional ranks through the NFL draft this year, with several alumni lined up to be taken among the 257 selections next week.
Among those expecting to hear their name called sometime within the 2025 NFL draft's three-day event is wide receiver Chimere Dike, who spent one season in Gainesville after transferring from Wisconsin to spend his final year of eligibility with the Orange and Blue. While it was hoped that his pairing with former teammate Graham Mertz would help fuel Florida's offensive resurgence, instead, he established his presence as a punt returner as well as a target for DJ Lagway.
It turned out to be a solid season for the Cheese State native, which could very well translate into a professional contract this spring. Below is a breakdown of Dike's stock heading into the draft in a question-and-answer format exchanged with Packers Wire's Brennan Rupp.
What did Dike mean to the Florida offense?
Dike was an important target for Lagway (and Mertz before him) out of the slot last season, earning him starts in 11 of 12 appearances. Additionally, his speed and versatility came in handy in many facets of the game.
His role on both offensive and defensive special teams also contributed to Florida's overall success. It's worth noting that he was the primary punt returner for the Gators, leading the SEC in return yardage with an average of 16.5 per.
Every team can use a jack-of-all-trades like Dike and Billy Napier was wise to snag him out of the transfer portal last offseason.
What would you say is Dike's greatest strength?
Speed. Not just sprinting speed, but also lateral speed and the ability to quickly adjust his momentum on the fly. That synergizes well with his elite route-running skills and playbook IQ. These are the talents that will benefit him at the professional level.
How is Dike's route running?
As noted before, on the offensive side of the ball, that is his carrying trait. His body control allows him to be right where he needs to be when the pass arrives, plus he has the athleticism to accommodate throws that might not be quite on the mark.
What does he offer after the catch?
Not as much as one might think given his punt return skills, as evidenced by his 6 yards after catch stat for which PFF has him tied at 154th among other wide receivers. His smaller physique makes him a bit slippery, but he has not shown the ability to absorb major hits while continuing the play.
Is Dike willing to do dirty work as a blocker downfield?
Despite his diminutive size (in comparison to the defensive linemen and linebackers), he is willing to throw his body at defenders and was utilized in this role regularly lining up in the slot. I would have concerns about his frame handling NFL-level physicality, but the willingness and motivation are there.
If you were an NFL GM, why would you draft Dike?
Dike is one of those guys you just love having on your roster. His versatility, football IQ and heart are the trifecta of a true team player, and he is the kind of athlete who will find a role somehow.
I probably would not use a higher pick on him, but if the later rounds arrive and he is still available, he could be worth a shot. If not, he will definitely land somewhere as a UDFA.
Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.