5’10” – 188 lbs. – 4.54
Worked into the defense as a true freshman, then started most of the games in his sophomore year and reprised his starting job as a junior and senior. Smaller cornerback who usually lines up in the slot, but takes the occasional snap outside; moves back and forth between the left and right sides of the defense. Was asked to play lots of press coverage/bump-and-run, with some off-zone looks mixed in. Locked down opponents in college, surrendering just seven completions on thirty targets. Quick, fluid mover who does a very good job of matching releases, including inside releases, at the line of scrimmage and who provides tight man-coverage at the route stem. Capable of sticking with opponents on crossing routes over the middle. Has a small, thin frame but plays bigger than his listed size, getting physical at the line of scrimmage. Despite playing in the slot, can get his head around and locate the ball on targets which require him to turn his back to the passer. Has very good ball skills when he’s in position to make a play on the ball. Needs to be a little bit careful about the amount of contact he makes down the field, which could get him flagged at the next level; also drew a lot of penalties at the college level. Plays bigger than his size, but will probably have trouble matching up against bigger receivers at the pro level and is probably likely to remain in the slot in the future. Has the instincts to sniff out screens and drive on spots in the passing game. Very fast pursuit player who will chase down ballcarriers across or down the field in run support. Does a good job of taking on blocks and playing with aggression and physicality. Forced to go low, but is a wrap tackler who is willing to stick his nose in and make stops. Despite generally playing with technique, will fall off of some attempts due to a lock of bulk and strength. Also made some contributions as the team’s kick returner and as a gunner on punt coverage units. Has missed a few games due to injury, which may be a concern given his style of play and frame. Was arrested for domestic violence this March, making his draft stock very difficult to determine. Has some of the best man-coverage skills in this year’s class and is a very likable player in terms of his on-field temperament, but also has some issues with his size and testing, which were just adequate. Plays like a first or second-round pick, but could easily slip to the third day depending on how teams feel about his recent arrest.
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