West Virginia Football: Mario Alford drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals

With 238th pick in the seventh round of the 2015 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals selected former West Virginia wide receiver Mario Alford.

The Bengals have added a speedy playmaker to their offense and special teams. Alford was the second-best receiver next to Kevin White last season for the Mountaineers. Alford could not only make plays as a receiver for the offense, but could use his speed to make an impact on special teams as well.

During his two seasons with West Virginia Alford had 92 receptions for 1,497-yards and 13 receiving touchdowns. On special teams, Alford amassed 972-yards and two touchdowns.

White ran a faster 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine, but Alford was able to best him during West Virginia’s Pro Day, where he ran a blazing 4.2 40-yard dash.

Alford doesn’t posses tremendous size, but what he lacks in height or weight he makes up for in shifty moves and fantastic speed. Whether the Bengals will look to use him on the offensive side of things — screen passes, sweep plays, or even as a slot receiver — Alford’s versatility will allow Cincinnati to use him as a kick returner or punt returner too.

Alford joins former Mountaineers Will Clarke and Adam “Pacman” Jones.

Alford’s the kind of player who can be a difference maker, whether it’s from the get-go or down the road, the Bengals now have a speedy weapon in their tool box.