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Overview
Slater is son of Hall of Famer Jackie Slater, but that's not why he's a prospect. His quickness as a return man and potential at receiver have garnered interest from NFL scouts. He mostly played as a defensive back for the Bruins the past couple of seasons after starting out at receiver. The statistic that sticks out for Slater was a 29.0-yard average on kickoff returns in 2007, including three returns for touchdown.
Analysis
Positives: Has the size and hands to compete for time as a slot receiver ... Very fluid in his hips, which should translate into quickly going in and out of breaks ... Hands are solid on returns ... Excellent special teams player, in coverage as well as a kick returner (three return touchdowns in 2007) ... Blows up defenders and can wrap up after using his speed to get downfield quickly ... Bloodlines obviously a plus.
Negatives: Has little experience at corner or receiver, so looks to be primarily a special teams contributor ... Will need to prove he can extend with his hands and secure the ball consistently if he is to contribute on offense ... May have troubles getting off the jam due to a lack of bulk, although he'll be in the slot most times and fares well against lesser talent outside on special teams.
High School
Lettered in football for two seasons for coach Larry Toner at Servite HS in Anaheim, CA ... All-West selection by Prep Star ... Three-star selection by Rivals.com ... Rated No. 75 prospect in the West by Rivals.com ... Ranked No. 56 nationally among receivers by Rivals.com ... Two-time All-Serra League selection ... As a senior, he made 39 receptions for 707 yards and five touchdowns ... Standout performer in track for coach Richard Gibbs, he finished second (tied) at the CIF State meet in the 100 meters (10.67) and fourth in the 200 (21.39) ... His 4 x 100m relay team was CIF champion ... Selected 2003 Orange County Register Boys Track and Field Athlete of the Year as a senior ... As a junior, he made 23 catches for 333 yards and two touchdowns ... Won the CIF Division III 100 and 200 meters ... Owns Servite school records in the 100 (10.62) and 200 meters (21.39).
Personal
Full name is Matthew Wilson Slater ... Born: September 9, 1985 ... Parents: Jackie and Annie Slater ... Father is a former Los Angeles Ram and NFL Hall of Fame offensive lineman ... Has one brother, David ... Lists his biggest athletic thrill to date as turning a disappointing senior track season around with a second place finish in the State 100 meter event ... NFL receiver Isaac Bruce is the athlete he admires most and after whom he patterns his style of play ... Enjoys participating in Children Ministries with his Church in his spare time ... Director's Honor Roll in Spring 2004, Spring 2005 and Winter 2007 ... Political Science major.
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