6’0” – 194 lbs. – 4.75
Appeared in three games as a true freshman, then redshirted the following year. Stepped into the starting lineup as a redshirt sophomore, intercepting six passes and defending four more, then followed that up with a five-interception, six-deflection junior year. Only started six games this past year after sustaining a torn ACL in his junior-year finale, but appeared in all twelve contests, intercepting one pass and defending six more. Very competitive cornerback who typically lined up on the short side of the field, playing different techniques; a lot of bail out of press-man looks, and some off-coverage as well; would set up over the edge of the defense in a zone look when there was no receiver to his side of the field. Looks to have recovered well from his injury, with fluid movement skills and clean footwork, although medical exams at the Combine will be crucial for his draft stock. Long-strider who’s able to get enough depth in his shuffle to keep opponents in front of him; however, was successfully targeted downfield during the games reviewed, showing just average deep speed; ran very poorly at the Combine. When playing press-man, uses his hands effectively to challenge an opponent’s release, and will place his hands on opponents through the route stem to stick with them. Good feel for when to break off of his original assignment and switch onto another receiver. Has impressive ball skills, as his twelve career interceptions would suggest. Does a good job of getting his head around to locate the ball when targeted down the field, with good timing and the length and leaping ability to get his hands on the ball. Looks comfortable defending opponents on fade routes near the goal line. Plant-and-drive is adequate to limit yards after the catch when playing off-coverage, but doesn’t always put himself in position to make plays on the ball. Will need to be careful at the next level, as he can create a little bit too much contact downfield with his physical approach. Willing run supporter who flows well to the ball, but could wrap up more consistently. Also contributed on kick-block units. A player who combines a competitive temperament, good size and length, and plus ball skills, but there’s a chance he may not even be drafted because of the depth in this year’s cornerback class and his slow 40-yard dash at the Combine, but put together some pretty impressive tape and might eventually be able to work his way into a pro defense.
DRAFTEXAMINER 