5’9” – 185 lbs. – 4.42
Has been starting since his true freshman season, which he finished with 30 tackles, nine breakups, and one interception. Sustained a preseason knee injury which cost him the first eight games of the following season, but managed to pick up thirteen tackles, seven breakups, and two interceptions over the last five games of the year. Finished his junior campaign with 52 tackles, six breakups, and three interceptions before declaring for the draft. On the small side for a pro cornerback, and how confident teams are in his ability to stay healthy may affect his draft stock; regardless, looks likely to be viewed as a candidate to slide inside at the next level.
Plays a lot of shuffle technique from off-coverage, but will come down and line up in some press looks at times as well. Has a conservative, responsible temperament which should appeal to “bend, don’t break” defenses. For a smaller cornerback, footwork when matching releases at the line of scrimmage can leave a little bit to be desired; looks somewhat flat at times. Lack of length also inhibits his ability to successfully disrupt releases at the line when he tries to get physical with opposing receivers. Ability to plant and drive from off-coverage is adequate, but tends to be more likely to limit yards after the catch than to put himself in position to make plays on the ball. Can be susceptible to timing-based throws, as his anticipation of routes and coverage through the route stem isn’t the tightest. However, does appear to have good speed to stick with receivers on posts, crossing routes, and down the sidelines, and tested well athletically at the Combine.
Pretty competitive as a run defender; understands the need to set up shop on the outside and funnel runners toward his help and does his best to get extension when taking on blockers. Many smaller cornerbacks struggle to disengage from blockers, but shows a good level of activity and demonstrates good balance and flexibility to slip past receivers and make tackles on the ballcarrier. Does like to come up and get physical with opposing ballcarriers, although he is more of a hitter/torpedo than a consistent form tackler, which is about par for the course for a smaller cornerback.
An undersized cornerback prospect who doesn’t provide the tightest coverage, but who has enough athleticism and who plays with the type of physical, competitive temperament that should allow him to compete for mid-round consideration from teams looking to add a cornerback to use on special teams while being groomed for eventual run in sub packages.
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