The Top 30 Cornerbacks in the 2011 NFL Draft
By William Carroll-Special Contributing Writer-Football Reporters Online
1. Patrick Peterson, LSU At 6’0 ¼” 219 with 4.34 speed the sheer, pure, intoxicating nature of Peterson’s athletic potential would generate great interest even if he were a raw prospect from a NAIA school, however when it’s considered that he appeared in all 39 games LSU played during his three seasons at Baton Rouge, in addition he was productive with 135 tackles, 22 passes broken up and 7 career picks. While he is the most comprehensively impressive prospect in the draft class based on his combination of talent, production and level of competition. It’s true that he returned four of his 2010 interceptions for 134 yards, he had six pass breakups, a blocked kick, and 1.5 sacks, averaged 29.1 yards on 32 kick returns and averaged 16.1 yards on 26 punt returns, two of which he returned for scores. He won the Jim Thorpe Award, the Chuck Bednarik Award, and was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year and SEC Special Teams Player of the Year by the conference's coaches. Despite the litany of honors and Peterson’s outsized body and athletic abilities, he is not quite a combination of Champ Bailey, Rod Woodson and ‘Night Train’ Lane yet.
Peterson is excellent in press and squat man coverage, even a receiver as long and powerful as Julio Jones he was able to nearly neutralize him while in press, but when in zone or off man he was not nearly as effective. He has the strength, length and size to redirect receivers at the line and disrupt routes. He is quick, violent and accurate in his hand usage which allows him to close the natural window on a receiver's outside shoulder. It is when he is playing off or in zone against smaller, quicker receivers and double moves that the small but exploitable flaws in his technique are revealed. His aggressive, man CB persona carries over even in zone and he’ll break a bit too early on the ball, seeking the big play. As mentioned before he is susceptible to stutter-go, slant and go or wheel routes, he may have a slight tightness in his hips. He can be overzealous, will at times, move out of proper position or initiate too much contact downfield and may incur more penalties at the next level. His zone and off-man technique is still a work in progress; clearly he knows how talented he is and didn’t always work to win leverage, he was roughly 70/30 in terms of (man/zone coverage ratio) and will have to become a bit more polished and diverse.
Patrick Peterson 2011 Combine Results
Name Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
Patrick Peterson CB LSU JR 6002 219 32.0 9.3 4.34 15 38.0 6.58 10'6"
Summary
9.2 out of 10, Peterson is so talented and has such a high ceiling and high floor that it seems likely that he’ll be a top 5 pick, top 10 at the very latest. He could start day one for some teams, however teams that use a variety of coverages, or do a great deal of stemming and disguising will need to give him more time and coaching but for any team he could bolster their return game and he is a natural play-maker. He is like a faster version of Raiders hall of fame CB Willie Brown but he will need good coaching to reach that stature.
2. Prince Amukamara, Nebraska 6’0 5/8” 206 4.43
Of royal lineage Amukamara has very fluid hips and has great change of direction speed, he has exceptional body control and tremendous agility, he comes aggressively in run support; is very ‘nosy’ for a corner. As a former running back, Amukamara also has really impressive run-after-catch skills; he is tough and makes solid run support tackles for a corner. He's strong in zone coverage, but doesn't have elite anticipation, and at times results in giving up a big play. He shows good awareness and football IQ. He is consistently able to recognize receiver’s routes; he is a dedicated film student. His attitude, work ethic and character are all at a blue-chip level.
It’s when he’s stacked against Peterson and each is examined against the best WR competition each faced that Peterson edges the Prince. When OK State faced Nebraska Justin Blackmon was clearly the better player, he abused Amukamara in that game, revealing what could be Amukamara’s largest weakness: not coming up with an effective plan B. In this particular game, once he was unable to effectively press Blackmon and even got burned on a couple occasions, allowing a touchdown and getting flagged for pass interference. He was a bit timid the rest of the day, while Peterson went toe-to-toe with Jones all day and in 2009 he faired reasonably well against A.J Green holding him to 4 catches, none of them game changers. In terms of technique like Peterson he was a really did get a few interference calls, and he has some trouble with placement of his lead hand coming through to break some passes up, which at times leads to him missing some tackles on wide receivers that catch the ball. He has good cover ability, but he needs to work on being able to stay in the contingent spot to the possibility of missing the break up but still can make the tackle. He has loose hips, he can change direction very well, and he keeps his hips low to the ground when breaking he makes strong, steady breaks on the ball.
As was stated run-support and tackling are strengths of his game as he’s competitive and does not shy away from contact in run support. An outstanding running back at Glendale Apollo High, Amukamara was dominant. He rushed for 2,106 yards and 24 touchdowns as a senior and was The Republic's Player of the Year. He was on three state-championship basketball teams and won state titles in the 100- and 200-meter dashes.
At Nebraska, he wasn't a reluctant cornerback for long. He started every game his last two seasons, finishing his junior year with five interceptions. Amukamara didn't have an interception as a senior, partly because opponents tried to avoid throwing his way.
Amukamara graduated from Nebraska in December with a degree in sociology. He is bright and engaging, he is somewhat similar to Peterson but Peterson’s elite change of direction, and straight-line speed and big play ability give him the edge in the minds of most evaluators. While Amukamara is a notch below Revis and Peterson in suddenness and ball-skills, he is a top10-15 talent and could be compared to a larger, smarter version of Johnathan Joseph.
Prince Amukamara 2011 Combine Results
Name Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
Prince Amukamara CB NEB SR 6005 206 30.4 8.399 4.34 15 38.0 6.97 10'8"
Summary
9.0 Amukamara was a 3 year team captain whose instincts and anticipation as much as his athletic ability will make him a success at the next level. It’s possible that 2-3 CB prospects may have a higher ‘ceiling’ than the Prince, none have a higher floor.
3. Jimmy Smith, Colorado 6’2 ¼" 211 He was highly respected so; few opposing quarterbacks threw his way. Even with no picks, he made the all-Big 12 Conference first team, however there are some examples of bad tape, the Georgia game for example and he has two minor-in-possession charges, one when he first arrived on CU's campus as a freshman [As a true freshman, Smith got caught with alcohol during training camp.
"I walked outside with a red cup that had nothing in it and you can't have a red cup in Boulder," Smith said. "So, I got caught for that. It was a lack of judgment.'']and one as a junior when cops raided a campus bar and asked for ID. A self-proclaimed shutdown corner, Smith said he likes comparisons to Raiders All-Pro cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, except for one thing: "I think I have better ball skills than he does." Well the comparison holds up with regards to size, he and allowed just 11 completions in man-to-man coverage over the past two years. He is elite in his route recognition, breaks on the ball while it’s in the air and he is Peterson’s equal in ball skills. Smith’s off-man technique might be the best in the draft; he is in the top 3 in press-man, top 5 in zone. However his: at times shoddy tackling, sticking to blocks, failed drug test, seeming not to always give 100% in chasing plays that go away from him, cockiness and recent dismissal of his original agent Peter Schafer in favor of the higher-profile Drew Rosenhaus, have combined to resemble a semaphore display of red flags.
He finished his Colorado career with 183 career tackles, which ranked him 77th all-time at Colorado, with his 16 pass deflections the 21st most. He allowed just 11 completions in man coverage over his junior and senior seasons (just one of those for a first down) and was invited to play in the Senior Bowl. While both he and Jalil Brown are impressive prospects. Some have asked: If Jimmy Smith is so great, why wasn't he matched up all game on A.J Green when Georgia came to town? The simple answer is the defensive scheme that Colorado ran. Jimmy smith was the "right corner back" in Colorado's defense and Brown was the "left corner back." During the game, Georgia lined AJ Green up on the left side of the field 80% of the passing plays during the game in order to avoid Jimmy Smith on the right side. Of the two pass attempts to A.J Green when he was matched up on Jimmy Smith-
1. Aaron Murray pass incomplete to A.J. Green, broken up by Jimmy Smith.
2. The pass completion for 1 yard - Jimmy Smith in coverage.
Smith showed athletic skills of his own in closing on the deep pass to the end zone to leap and knocking it away. He also made other plays that showed that he can spend some time on the island and perform. He also showed a willingness to handle his responsibilities in the run game (even on the one where he missed the RB in the backfield he was there and trying,) and he contributed on specials and clearly more than held his own against elite WR.
However of greater importance than the good talent is the possible bad character. In fairness there have been no arrests since 2007; He does show some physical toughness making tackles (I haven't seen him shy away), but he could be a much better tackler, like Vladimir Guerrero his strike zone seems to have no middle he seems to only go at shoulders and ankles, also he shows very unimpressive technique and urgency in disengaging from blocks. Some coach will believe he can coach him up on and off-field, minimize his flaws, and then if he takes Smith in the 1st 40 picks he’d better be right. The Aquib Talib comparison does cut both ways.
Jimmy Smith 2011 Combine Results
Name Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
Jimmy Smith CB CU SR 6022 211 32.2 9 3/4 4.42 24 36 6.93 10'3"
Summary
8.8 Like the other top CBs he’s not as comfortable in zone as in press-man; is footwork, ability to turn and run makes him an attractive prospect. Impressive with how tight he can play to the receiver and give them no room. An important combine number to look at for defensive backs that tells about their quickness is the 20-yard shuttle. Of the three top corners, Smith is slightly ahead of Patrick Peterson and Prince Amukamara in that area (4.06 to 4.07 and 4.08); all three of those numbers are impressive. Smith Plays well with his hands and when he gets his hands on you, he redirects most receivers easily. In off-man coverage, he pedals with ease. He is hard to run by, he turns very quickly for a player with such long legs; with no false steps, wasted movement or motion. He flips his hips and explodes on the ball, he keeps hip-pocket position in the route and does not labor at all. Scouts are impressed with his ability to cover A.J. Green of Georgia. When the Bulldogs tried to send Green on a vertical route, inside down the middle of the field, Smith was lined up in outside technique, read the break and drove to the middle of the field with Green initially in the clear. The ball was well thrown but Smith knocked the pass away. Later in the game, Green lined up wide in the red zone setting up the fade. Green tries to beat Smith inside but Smith cuts the route off with his feet, jams Green with his hands. When Green tried to separate, Smith allowed no space for the ball, as the game wore on, the Georgia coaches moved Green to the opposite side of the field away from Smith and he was able to make play after play. He is wildly inconsistent as a tackler, but he does his body around as a tackler. In the Oklahoma game, he was able to make two solid open-field tackles, one against DeMarco Murray on a swing pass. There are some questions about failed drug tests in his history. That will surely hurt his stock with teams even taking him off some draft boards, but there is no doubting his ability on tape. Smith is likely one of the 1st 10 players selected in round two with an outside chance at late round one with a team with a strong locker-room and infrastructure.
4.Ras-I Dowling, Virginia 6’1 3/8” 198 Dowling has size, speed and is among the more technically sound cornerbacks in this draft. He doesn’t make many mistakes in coverage in either man-to-man or zone. He understands how to read (on the run) a receiver in coverage and in zone. He also has solid football intelligence and understands situational football. Durability and injuries are a concern, he’s battled different injuries his entire senior season, and even pulled up when running at the combine, but with his mind, size, speed, feet and balance should he fall past pick #40 and stays healthy he could be a real bargain. He ran 4.4 at the combine and was timed from 4.37-4.42 at his make-up pro day.
Ras-I-Dowling 2011 Combine Results
Ras-I Dowling Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
CB UVA SR 6013 198 32 ½ 9.5 4.40 DNP DNP DNP DNP
Dowling is best in press man but has the instincts and intellect to play most any coverage adequately. He is just behind Smith, Amukamara and Peterson in hip fluidity with good coaching he could play at a very high level soon. Dowling played in just 5 games his senior season, missing time with knee and hamstring injuries, as well as a fractured ankle; still his recent pro day in addition to his fast 40 featured, 38” in the vertical and a 10’8” broad jump.
Career college statistics:
YEAR TOT SOLO AST SACK STF STFY FF BK INT YDS AVG LNG TD PD
2007 43 29 14 0 0 0 1 0 2 17 8.5 17 0 0
2008 43 33 10 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0.0 0 0 0
2009 58 40 18 1 0 0 2 0 3 70 23.3 49 0 0
2010 15 12 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0
Dowling’s leadership qualities, solid jamming at the line, strong tackling and football intellect will allow him to overcome his slightly less than elite recovery and redirect on double moves and coverage of smaller quicker WRs. He will also want to sink his hips a bit on his backpedal and be mindful of maintaining proper technique even when in high stress situations.
Summary
8.7 There is a real possibility that Dowling is as pro ready as any CB in this draft. Health is the only major stumbling block, but if he is in a system that fits his skills he could be a starter on opening day. As an NFL comparison, most mention, his former UVA teammate Chris Cook, I see some Will Allen and Aaron Ross. Dowling could go in the 1st 5-10 picks of round to or fall into the early 3rd, but I don’t think he’ll get past Dallas in round 2 if they don’t take a corner in the 1st or Detroit if they don’t take a corner in the 1st .
5. Aaron Williams, Texas 5’11 7/8” 204 Williams is fairly dependable man-to-man defender, but he does not play bump-and-run as often as many other top corners, will need to improve his press technique to be highly effective at the next level.
2010: He played in 11 games on defense and special teams with nine starts, including time at both nickel back and cornerback and was named to Nagurski Trophy and Thorpe Award watch lists, as well as second-team All-Big 12 by the league's coaches, the Associated Press and the San Antonio Express-News. Williams led the team with 13 PBU, to go along with 46 tackles (30 solo), one sack, five TFL, three forced fumbles and one blocked punt, his three forced fumbles were also second on the team and tied for third in the Big 12, he returned 11 punts for 86 yards (7.8 ypr) on special teams.
While some project Williams to FS he is nearly a made to order Cover 2 corner. Even as a freshman in 2008, Williams managed to crack the starting lineup. He made some big plays that year, including blocking an incredible four punts and returning an interception for an 81-yard score. Williams started 13 games in 2009 and tallied 44 tackles, three interceptions and started to show his big hitting ability by forcing two fumbles.
Year School Tackles Solo Ast TFL SK FF INT BLK TD
2007 94 63 31 10½ 3 6 4 3 1
2008 Texas 15 9 6 1 0 1 1 2 1
2009 Texas 34 24 10 4½ 2 2 3 0 0
2010 Texas 45 30 15 5 1 3 0 1 0
Williams like all the Texas defenders played and practiced against Big 12 talent, the conference has had a high level of QB and WR play for the last several years. When compared to other Texas CBs he is more like Jammer than Vasher, however he does not have burner-type speed, and he can be beaten when facing sprinting wide receivers. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for with awareness and anticipation. The downside of anticipation is that when he’s wrong and since he lacks elite recovery speed he can give up some big plays.
Aaron Williams 2011 Combine Results
Aaron Williams Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
CB TX SR 5117 204 32 ¼ 9.5 4.55 18 35.5 6.72 10'7"
Summary
8.6 Williams might be best served as a 3rd corner initially, his best scheme fit is either cover 2 or a very aggressive form of ‘Quarters’ man where he’ll have help over the top. As stated he is like Jammer and also a bit like Charles "Peanut" Tillman, Tillman went #35 in 2003, Williams could go that early, he’s likely to go from 40-55. As some teams have noted, should he struggle at CB, he could like Malcolm Jenkins move inside to free safety.
6. Brandon Harris, Miami (FL) 5’9 ½” 191 4.53 Harris was coached by his father in high school and has a passion for the game, which is something NFL teams look for. Harris is a 2008 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in Miami, Florida where he led his team to the No. 6 national ranking by USA Today. As a senior in 2007, he caught 26 passes for 501 yards and eight touchdowns, and racked up 1,069 all-purpose yards. On defense, he tallied 49 tackles, five sacks and four interceptions (two returned for scores). He was also asked to play quarterback in some key situations and completed eight of 17 passes for 230 yards with a touchdown. As a junior in 2006, he completed 10 of 10 passes for 250 yards and three touchdowns and caught 38 passes for 576 yards and 10 TDs. That year, on defense, he collected 41 tackles, four sacks and five interceptions (two returned for touchdowns). Harris also played in the inaugural Under Armor All-Star game. He was tabbed the Florida Class 6A-4A "Male Athlete of the Year," Dade County's 6A-4A "Defensive Player of the Year" and Florida's "Gatorade Player of the Year" coming out of high school. He was listed as the 6th-best football player in Florida and 38th best in the nation by Rivals.com. He was also selected to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super Southern 100 team.
His effort in run support will be valued; he has a solid football IQ and high football character. If he can make his tackling technique more consistent, improve his jam at the LOS, he will be a very good nickel/slot CB. As a freshman at Miami, Brandon Harris was thrown into the fire. He was often beat for big plays, but Harris showed his attitude and stuck with it game after game. While that would crush the confidence of many players, for Harris it was a learning experience. He has gotten better and it did not take long. Just a year later he led the ACC in passes defended per contest and tied for second nationally with 15 pass break-ups, He was named All-ACC First Team by the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association, ESPN.com, Rivals.com and Phil Steele, and named one of 12 national semifinalists for the Jim Thorpe Award. On the season he broke up a total of 17 passes, and tallied 52 total tackles, 6 TFLs, and a sack and a forced fumble.
As a junior in 2010, Harris tallied 44 total tackles, 1 TFL, 1 interception, 10 PBUs and a FF.
Brandon Harris 2011 Combine Results
Name Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
Brandon Harris CB LSU JR 5094 191 31 9 4.53 14 35.5 6.77 9'5"
Summary
8.4 Harris should be selected from the 40th-50th pick in the draft, the early 3rd round would seem to be the latest he’s likely to be selected. He is somewhat like Darius Butler of UConn and New England with slightly better tackling and instincts but not nearly as sudden of fast. There is some concern that in a good secondary he’ll never be more than a 3rd corner, however the increasingly value of the 3rd corner should relieve some of those concerns. With his mind and quick hips he has upside, but despite his average size he’s able and willing in pursuit, but this is one area where his lack of elite speed does hurt, he will not catch elite speed receivers or backs from behind. Harris is also being seen as a FS projection by some, in any case he can be a useful reserve at one or two spots sooner rather than later.
7. Davon House, New Mexico State 6’0 ½" 200
House finished his career with the Aggies with 11 interceptions, 319 pick return yards, and three touchdowns. He also contributed 202 tackles (122 solo), 37 passes defenses, a forced fumble, and four kick returns for 94 yards. The size and natural athletic ability would seem to make House comparable to Amukamara; however there are some clear areas of demarcation between the two. House stepped right into a starting role as a true freshman in 2007 and has not looked back since. He started his career out with a bang by recording four interceptions as a freshman and breaking a school record with 171 return yards on those interceptions. House led his team with two interceptions last season, recording 57 tackles and 10 pass deflections. For his career, he intercepted 11 passes for 319 return yards with three returned for touchdowns and his career totals are: 198 career tackles, 46 pass deflections and three fumble recoveries.
It could even be argued that at the ½ way points of their careers that House was ahead of Amukamara. He has elite hand-eye coordination and ball skills. He maintains legal contact with receivers and uses his quickness to stay with receivers in man coverage. Similar to most of the other corners in the draft, he will need to continue to improve his zone technique to be starting corner in the NFL. House has few holes in his game but on film in the box against two tight end formations he seems tentative, it seems he is a bit uncomfortable around big bodies and too often he is not a big factor against screens and sweeps. Still House is a clean prospect he has no character, work ethic or injury issues. He did fight a nagging ankle last year, but never missed a single game at the collegiate level and even started 12 games as a true freshman.
Davon House 2011 Combine Results
Davon House Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
CB NMSU SR 6004 200 31 ¾ 9.25 4.43 18 33.5 6.65 9'1"
Summary
8.2 Davon House is the type of pick that can make a GM look nearly brilliant or as if the team was being too clever. House is a hitter, he has size and speed. In four years with the Aggies he totaled 202 tackles, 10 interceptions, forced fumble, and he was often the bright spot on some pretty porous defenses. Despite his at questionable consistency in both zone and off-man and tendency to miss tackles by going for the knockout shot House has the attention of NFL talent evaluators. To keep that attention he’ll need to really apply himself in the film room to improve his instincts and awareness, coaching may shore up his habit of dropping his head when tackling, improper angles and technique when transitioning. Without those improvements he’ll likely be a reserve to fringe starter in a Cover 2 shell. Great coaching in Tampa or a similar system and the tutelage of a veteran like Ronde Barber he could become a starter or standout and even in man he has tantalizing potential, NFL comparison Chad Scott.
8. Brandon Burton, Utah 5’11 5/8” 190 Burton elected to forego his final season of eligibility to enter the 2011 NFL Draft. In 2010 He was an all-conference cornerback was a two-year starter and his 18 career pass breakups is tied for the ninth-best mark at Utah. Burton can be trusted as a tackler in the run and pass game. He is not as explosive as Brice McCain not as long and fluid as Sean Smith, however he has a strong competitive streak, and he’s a bit slender but is nearly ideal in terms of hips and feet.
Stats Overview Tackles Misc. Interceptions
YEAR TOT SOLO AST SACK STF STFY FF BLK INT YDS AVG LNG TD PD
2008 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0
2009 43 31 12 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0.0 0 0 0
2010 51 34 17 0 0 0 1 0 2 69 34.5 57 0 0
In his best games you can see that he has a great deal in common with Terrence Newman, he’s able to get into proper position and he tracks the ball well, in terms of technique his transitions could be smoother and quicker but otherwise he’s an above average technician. In high school, Burton returned 10 of his 11 career interceptions for touchdowns and also lettered in track. He qualified for the junior Olympics in the 200-meters.
He struggles against some strong, aggressive receivers; he is very ‘nosy’ and has given up some big plays on stutter-pump-and go plays. He is very close to elite in several areas; however his instincts are not one of those areas.
Brandon Burton 2011 Combine Results
Brandon Burton Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
CB UT JR 5115 190 31 ½ 9.25 4.51 18 32 6.93 9'10"
Summary
8.1 A fairly close NFL comparison is Jerome Murphy; Burton defended 20 passes in his two seasons as a starter and also excelled on special teams. He blocked a field goal on the game’s final play to preserve a one-point win over BYU on Nov. 29, 2010. Burton has the physical tools necessary to be a starter at the next level, but despite his leaping ability, above average ball awareness, ball location skills, smooth backpedal and fluid hips he simply fails to make a play when he should and at other times tries too hard to make a play that simply is not there. If scouts had only seen 1 tape and if it was of Burton vs. Baldwin when Utah faced Pitt doing what he does best, Bump-and-Run and play the ball aggressively in the air, then they’d go away thinking they’d seen a 1st round CB. This why 1 tape, even against a very good WR can highlight strengths and mask weakness. Baldwin is big and athletic, but not deceptive or very abrupt in his cuts. There were receivers that had these qualities but lacked Baldwin’s pedigree who gave Burton more trouble.
9. Curtis Brown, Texas Brown looks like a cover corner, physically he’s a bit reminiscent of Dale Carter; he missed time with a neck injury in 2010. By the end of his sophomore campaign, Brown was a regular starter in the secondary. That year the Longhorns ranked second in the nation in pass efficiency defense and Brown played a big part in that. In 2009 Brown started all 14 games and he’s been productive on special teams’ coverage units, often leading the team in tackles, and returned 14 punts for a 13.9 average. Brown is said to be of solid character and good in the locker-room.
Not a very powerful player; as many saw on the very highly publicized last-second Michael Crabtree game-winning TD vs. Texas back in 2008. Additionally he is, at times, hesitant in run support. His ability in run support is not impressive, due in large part to a lack of aggression. So far he’s better in man than zone coverage; due mostly to lack of experience in zone. Brown is average to below average as an open field tackler.
Curtis Brown 2011 Combine Results
Name Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
Curtis Brown CB TX SR 5115 185 31 9 4.51 10 39.5 6.77 10'8"
Summary
8.0 Brown certainly has faced a large number of very fine receivers in games as well as in practices; for the most part he has acquitted himself well. Like any CB he has had his good days and his bad days but with his nearly elite balance, quickness and agility it’s likely that at the very least he should thrive as a 3rd or ‘Nickel’ corner. NFL Comparison Kevin Barnes, Brown will also likely add value on kickoff and punt coverage and has return ability, when that’s married with his potential to play Nickel immediately with the possibility of starting on the outside eventually it’s clear he’s unlikely to last past the #19-31 range in round 2 or the Bengals’ selection in the 3rd round.
10. Shareece Wright, USC 5’10 7/8” Wright has an opportunity to be one of this draft’s real bargains at his position he’s not huge by any means and he has struggled with nagging nicks and the books at time at Southern Cal, however he has received top-flight coaching, he has practiced and played against very good competition and has showed a real nose for the ball and solid football IQ. Wright started all 13 games for the Trojans in 2010 at cornerback. He finished the year with 73 tackles, including seven for a loss and a team-high 10 pass deflections and two fumble recoveries. For his career, Wright totaled 127 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 15 pass deflections and four fumble recoveries. He made 17 career starts.
Some are concerned that he was charged with resisting arrest in 2009 when he refused to leave the house where he was partying when the police broke up the festivities because he had been drinking and wanted to stay the night before going home. Also he didn’t show up for two traffic violation court dates, even more teams are looking hard at his durability. Wright was out for his entire junior season due to academic problems and was sidelined as a sophomore because of a hairline neck fracture. Still he was a favorite of his coaches at USC and at the Senior Bowl. He was a gifted two-way player at Colton (CA) High School Shareece Wright could have played running back or cornerback in college, but preferred the defensive side of the ball. As a junior he had 1,221 yards on the ground on 139 carries and 14 TDs (offensive MVP) while also garnering 97 tackles and a pair of sacks, four batted down passes and two fumble recoveries.
Wright is an above-average athlete, at his Pro Day workout, Wright had a 35 ½ “vertical leap and a 10’00” broad jump as well as a 7.00 three-cone drill and a 4.32 in the short shuttle. He is very aggressive in breaking on the ball and has a smooth transition and sudden acceleration out his breaks. Wright is very good in route recognition; double moves and press man are the things that reveal his primary weaknesses: he is not terribly violent or accurate with his hands and his aggressiveness to the ball makes him vulnerable to play-action passes and double moves.
Shareece Wright 2011 Combine Results
Name Pos. College CL Ht. Wt. Arm Hand 40 Time Reps V-J 3-Cone Broad
Shareece Wright CB USC SR 5107 185 30.75 8.75 4.41 16 34.5 7.09 9'5"
Summary
7.9 Wright is entering the NFL at the proper time, the Nickel corner is virtually a starter and Wright can become a solid option there. It’s not impossible that if he can improve his jam, though he’ll often lose out on jump balls against taller targets, also if he refines his technique since he’ll need to do a better job of reading the receiver instead of the quarterback and too often bites on a quarterback’s fake, so that’s many ifs; but if he can do all those things and carry a bit more muscle he has a chance of becoming a dependable starter at CB. Most likely he’ll be a very good 3rd CB, NFL comparison Asher Allen. Wright could go late in the second but more likely he’ll be selected in the early to mid-3rd.
11. Kendric Burney, North Carolina 5’9 3/8 “ 186 4.71 This is where many a team will have the film vs. measurable physical debate after five pick-off campaign a as a junior earning Burney, based on tape went into this season with All-ACC honors and widely considered a top 5-10 corner. With 44 career starts he’s experienced with a very high football IQ. Despite his lack of size and speed, which will hurt him at times, he has been a top CB in high school and college, after a 6 game suspension Burney made 30 tackles and picked off two passes in six games in 2010. Teams that value triangle numbers, will consider him undraftable, however he was one of the most impressive players during Senior Bowl practices. He is in the top 5 in this class in terms of instincts and tackling, he plays with a low, smooth backpedal and fluid hips. For a heavy Cover 2 team like Chicago Burney would be at least considered for the Nickel or Dime corner. His size and speed mean he is unlikely to be selected prior to the late 5th-early 7th round range, but in the right defense he could become a starter and while he’s unlikely to have 47 career INTs like Ray Buchanan or make 4 Pro Bowls like Frank Minnifield he much like both who were top-flight CBs despite similar limitations. 7.825
12. Johnny Patrick, Louisville 5’10 5/8” 191 4.59/4.48 As a former WR Patrick plays bigger than his frame suggests, his ball skills carried over and he is, not surprisingly a work-in-progress as a tackler. 2010 stats: 49 tackles, 12 pass breakups, 5 interceptions One of Patrick’s strengths is his help in run support, it seems like he actually enjoys coming up and helping in the running game. Patrick is a reliable tackler who possesses solid technique. At Louisville, Patrick started for four seasons where he improved each year. Last season Patrick posted a career high with five interceptions, two of which came in the final regular season game against Rutgers. Patrick was a first-team All-Big East selection as a senior, when teams generally avoided throwing to his side of the field. Patrick has a burst to closing sustains his speed trailing downfield and displays excellent ball skills. As might be expected with just a few years of defensive experience, he's a not an elite tackling corner, his technique is a bit raw and off the field Patrick does carry some baggage. This past summer he was arrested and charged with a misdemeanor following an argument with his girlfriend, where he allegedly threw her on the ground after she attempted to take his phone to see his text messages. Again a Nickel type best suited to Cover-2, he’s similar to Mike Mickens. 7.8
12. Curtis Marsh, Utah State 6’0 ½ “ 197 4.42 Physically he’s very like Amukamara Marsh has the same long arms and sturdy frame he too is a former running back, however he does not quite have the same body of work. The best tape of Marsh is likely the Boise game, he took on at times Young and other times Pettis he had 3 PBUs and handled Young’s quickness and Pettis’ length about equally well. Marsh can play man and has a chance to fit in with a team like the Panthers or Packers as a Nickel with starter potential, NFL comparison Sherrod Martin 7.75
13. Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson 5’10” 195 4.45 Gilchrist could be a FS or even a SS but he’s likely to be tried at Nickel CB 1st and he might stick there. He is a bit like R.W McQaurters, Gilchrist was ranked in the top three in the ACC in kickoff returns and punt returns while his man coverage technique is not ideal because he reacts ½ a step too slowly to quick receivers, he has the physical ability to cover well enough in man and zone fits him best. Unless he learns to improve his hip/foot quickness he’ll struggle to cover top slot receivers in the NFL. As a safety he is an aggressive, but not forceful tackler, though he’s fast, versatile, smart and he was a team captain at Clemson He not be considered an intimating hitter by any means Gilchrist can’t shock and drive a ball-carrier backwards. He is a solid tackler, though, who doesn’t whiff on ball-carriers. He uses excellent form and position to bring the guy to the ground. Your free safety is generally your last line of defense, and Gilchrist is about as efficient as an open-field tackler as one might hope. His angles to the football are superb, which is crucial when in the back of the secondary. He reminds some of Will Allen 7.7
14. Chris Culliver, South Carolina 6’0 3/8” 199 4.36 Culliver has a strong chance of being over-drafted due to his elite size/speed ratio and versatility, he was originally a WR, and he was moved to FS and then shifted to CB. A torn pectoral muscle and seeming difficulties with picking up the CB position depressed his production in 2010, but those who really prize fast rangy safeties, [normally you’d insert Al Davis joke her after the Antonio Gibson/Michael Huff selections] may still take Culliver in the top 40-50 selections. Culliver has physical skills that would seem to scream man corner with his loose hips and long speed, however he has not shown the necessary situational awareness, route recognition when combined with his choppy high backpedal means he would be a project at CB. At FS he is more comfortable and consistent however his tackling is not what most teams will want at the position. He also adds value as a return man with impressive agility. There were also concerns that an agent may have been paying the premiums on his insurance policy, his play is worth a mid-3rd selection, if he goes much earlier it can be considered an upside based reach. 7.6
15. Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech 5’10” 192 4.53/4.43 Carmichael is hard worker, a film room junkie, a student of the game he was a 2 year starter he has a real knack for blitzing, he tracks the ball well, however he seems too often come up a bit short in getting his hands on the ball. However too often and for too long he’ll get his hands on receivers and unlike most VPI corners he is a not an exceptional tackler as exacerbated by the fact that he struggled to disengage from blacks and was below average against the running game. His raw ability and tendency to jump routes at times turns out to be a double-edged sword as that has resulted in him biting on a lot of double moves or stutter or slant and go patterns. Still as a Nickel he can offer some immediate value. He is physically similar to former Denver CB Alphonso Smith 7.5.
16. Josh Gatlin, NDSU 6’0 ½ “ 196 4.39 Some may only notice Gatlin due to his gaudy triangle numbers, but he played at a high level of FCS competition and led the Bison in interceptions this past season with five. A Jacksonville, FL. native Josh Gatlin has burst onto the scene in the last few months. What makes hos five picks more surprising is that he only started in one game. He was invited to play in the NFL Players Association Texas vs. the Nation game on Feb. 9. In that game, Gatlin recorded three tackles and an interception. Gatlin played in all 13 games in 2010, but started in only one. That did not stop him from leading the team in interceptions, the year before, he actually started more games with two, but only played in five. At TX vs. Nation practices he was noticed for strong play and an INT in practice and playing speed. Gatlin is a cousin of sprinter Justin Gatlin and it shows.
Gatlin is a developmental project but he could be one that develops quickly. Teams that don't need an immediate need in the secondary, and have a knack for finding value late in the draft are going to be targeting Gatlin. I see Gatlin being a late round pick, from the late fifth through the seventh round. Teams like Tampa Bay, the Vikings and the Bears, these teams play the Tampa 2 defense, which is what NDSU plays, so the learning curve could be drastically cut. Gatlin is physically like Willie Middlebrooks formerly of Denver 7.4.
17. Cortez Allen, The Citadel Cortez Allen is classified as a DB by the team because he plays in multiple secondary positions. They tended to move him around because teams tried to avoid him, but his natural position is CB. Allen acquitted himself well during East-West Shrine practices, which were well-attended by NFL scouts. He's a long, lean corner who is aggressive, Allen is able to make hard-hitting tackles on receivers and break up plays. Allen displays a nice understanding and feel for the game but should spend refining his route recognition and eliminating false steps. For three years, Citadel corner Cortez Allen spent much of his practice time trying to cover Andre Roberts; while Allen probably won’t be selected as early as his former teammate Andre Roberts, who was a third round pick of the Arizona Cardinals in the 2010 NFL Draft, the odds are some team will call his name at some point in the middle rounds, perhaps as early as the mid-late 4th. 2010: Allen started all 11 games with 22 tackles 5 PBUs 2 INTs. Allen is similar to Lee Bodden Overall grade of 7.3.
18. Jalil Brown, Colorado 6’0 5/8” 204 4.52 Brown is good in run support he displays above average ball skills, he can locate the ball and make plays on it effectively (5 INT’s, 17 pass break-ups the past two years). He can match up and run downfield in man coverage and make the tough interception, but he rarely takes chances at making the big play, more often than not he make the safe play. Brown uses his quick feet and loose hips to get in position to break up the pass; he can plant, turn, and drive on the receiver or to make a play on the ball. He can be a bit too nosey and loses contact at times with his man while locating the ball or eyeing up the QB. Brown is not the quickest defensive back in this class, but he is amongst the strongest. In some ways Brown is a ‘poor man’s Malcolm Jenkins who might end up at FS, 7.2.
19. Buster Skrine, Chattanooga 5’9 ½" 186 4.37 [4.48] (pronounced "screen") I won’t delve too deeply into the controversy surrounding Skrine’s 40 time, suffice to say he was an All-SoCon selection as a member of the UTC 4x100 meter relay team, he is blazing fast on film and 3 scouts, with whom I have spoken had him between 4.39 and 4.35. Despite his size and speed Skrine is not 100% finesse he is solid when supporting against the run. Senior season stats: 10 games (8 starts); 39 total tackles (29 solo), 8 pass break-ups, 1 interception. Career stats: 42 games (30 starts); 155 total tackles (113 solo), 21 pass break-ups, and 5 interceptions. It’s likely he’ll begin his career over the slot and certainly has value as a kick returner (he averaged 20.6 yards per return as a junior but had only three returns last fall, all in the season opener, and suffered a dislocated elbow during one of them) and special-teams contributor. Skrine's Combine numbers were consistently among the best for corners, and he posted the best time in the three-cone drill. The pro CB he might be the most like if he maxes out is Aaron Glenn, 7.1.
20. Ryan Jones, NW Missouri State 5’11” 197 4.47 Jones is a work in progress but the MIAA is an elite level DII conference and Jones was among the class of defensive prospects in that conference this season. The areas that will require the greatest improvement are his jam in press-man and tackling. He has started 56 of 58 games in the past four years for his team, and finishing off his career at NWMSU with six interceptions as a senior. It’s clear he has the ability to turn and run and displays good balance and footwork when asked to redirect out of his breaks on throws in front of him and on sharply breaking routes he stays in proper position in relation to the ball and his man. Jones has played in both man and zone, his range, ball skills, size and quick feet, strong build and loose hips give him a chance to be drafted a stick in the league. Jones could go as early as the late 4th and should not last past the middle of the 6th round. 7.0.
21. Justin Rogers 5’10 3/8” 183 4.43 Rodgers is an excellent returner and CB with good closing speed and he makes plays on the ball and has been highly productive in the ‘SEC of the FCS’ the CAA. Rogers is the second player in CAA history to be named All-CAA 1st Team for four consecutive years. Last season he had 48 tackles, two interceptions and two forced fumbles as the league's premier shutdown corner. A versatile threat, Rogers became the CAA Football career leader in kickoff return yards during the 2010 season and also saw action on offense as he rushed five times, caught three passes and was two-for-two passing. He is a natural playmaker in coverage, run support and the return game. He is a fluid athlete who moves well and has shown the ability to play especially well in zone coverage. He is a quick defender who is reliable when supporting the run well with 162 tackles over his career. At the East-West week, he showed the short area quickness to break on the ball and match up in coverage that earned him CAA honors. The concerns are that he’s small and light and he could be overpowered by big receivers and as a defender, he might not be more than a nickel/slot defender. Will tackle too high and miss tackles, he might be targeted in red zone and jump ball situations. Rodgers is a player that reminds some of Jason McCourty, 6.95.
22. Richard Sherman, Stanford 6’2 3/8” 194 4.53 A former WR, Sherman was a 2-year track letter winner at Stanford in Track, he jumped a personal best of 50’0” in the triple jump in 2007, good for ninth place on the all-time Stanford career list and jumped a season-best 21-3 ½ in the long jump at the 2008 Stanford Invitational. Despite his athletic ability, hands and ball skills there are many that wonder of Sherman’s lack of aggression and instincts at his new position. As a Stanford wide receiver Sherman was their top receiver as a freshman and sophomore. He combined for 73 catches for 1232 yards (16.9 YPC.) and 7 touchdowns during those years. He missed most of the following year after suffering a partial tear in his patellar tendon. He caught 8 passes in 4 games before he went down with an injury. He came back the following year and moved to cornerback. The past two seasons he has started there and combined for 112 tackles, 6 picks and 17 breakups. He also average 9.3 yards on 23 career punt returns with 2 scores. 2 players that Sherman is somewhat like are Idrees Bashir and Gary Baxter 6.9.
23. Chimdi Chekwa, Ohio State 5’11 ¾" 191 4.38 Chekwa is still recovering from surgery that followed his severely dislocated right wrist suffered in the first quarter of the Sugar Bowl. The screws were removed from his wrist on March 15th; he will be 100% long before the season however. Career stats: 39 career starts, 145 tackles, 28 PBU, 6 interceptions he has exceptional speed (he also ran track for Ohio State) Chekwa is one of the top 3-5 pure athletes in this position group. Beyond the medical concerns, there were already questions about his toughness, tackling, instincts, and susceptibility to double moves and pump fakes. Chekwa will likely go earlier than his actual play as a CB demands, but he is something of a project, Ashton Youboty went #70 in 2006, Chekwa could go that early, but like Youboty he’s currently a better athlete than he is a CB, 6.8.
24. Prathon Wilkerson 5’9 ½ “ 185 4.55 Legitimate DII cornerback who made a name for himself when he did a very fine job staying with world-class sprinter WR Ricardo Lockette head-to-head in the 2010 ASU v. FVSU game, and also at the HBCU Senior Bowl. He really put it all together as a senior this past season (2010) at Albany State, compiling 38 tackles, 3 TFLs, 16 total PBUs, and a pick 6 among his 7 interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. He intercepted one pass as a junior with seven pass deflections and was named Special Teams Player of the Year by Albany. He has impressive anticipation. He can lay off the receiver and jumps the route. Has ability to play all coverages, he has consistent technique, tackling, understands the game also he has shown the necessary hands, ball skills for the interception and is a solid wrap tackler. He can jam well but has average recovery speed and he is pretty similar to D.J Moore and could be a Cover-2 Nickel 6.75.
25. Demarcus Van Dyke 6’0 ¾” 176, Miami 4.27 The angular CB from the ‘U’ has all the tools, but is downright wispy and lacks exceptional instincts, but Van Dyke’s combine 40 times of 4.25 and 4.28 have elevated him in the eyes of many, however he was not a full-time starter and at times Ryan Hill outplayed him. He only had 5 repetitions at 225; he will have to get much stronger to ever be more than a reserve. On screens he has trouble shedding blocks and gets overpowered by receivers and running backs. Demarcus Van Dyke has never been a full-time starter at Miami, but during his four years there he did manage to total 21starts and though many of the ‘sprinter playing football’ caveats apply to the track/football letter winner he showed a knack for timely big plays but lacked consistency. If his raw speed entices a team into taking him prior to the mid-6th that will likely be a bit of a reach. A player to whom he has drawn some comparisons is a much thinner version of Tremain Mack or Fabian Washington, he not even as polished as former Hurricane WR turned CB Sam Shields 6.6.
26. Dionte Dinkins 6’0 7/8" 195, 4.54 Ft. Valley State Dinkins is fairly athletic he ran the 40 yard dash at 4.52 and 4.57 seconds at his Pro Day workout, with a 33” vertical leap and a 9’10” broad jump, he’s durable, a very solid tackler who forced a fumble this year and he’ll contribute on special teams he has blocked a punt and 2 place kicks a P.A.T and a FG. Of his 5 picks this year 3 were easy but 2 showed body control and above average ball skills. Dinkins has never faced a sophisticated passing offense and his teammate Ricardo Lockette is one of very few NFL level talents he’s covered. Dinkins like most of the CBs in this draft class is best suited to Cover-2, he will take a while to adjust to the NFL talent and complexity but he can contribute on special teams until he’s ready to be a reserve and perhaps eventually a starter, 6.5 he is rather like Antoine Cason, but more raw he may go in the late 6th or later.
27. Chykie Brown 5’11 ¼" 191, 4.49 Texas Has NFL speed, athleticism and frame for a CB, but his inconsistency is the most consistent thing about his play. He can press, flip his hips and run. He has quick feet and can plant and close, Brown is athletic and plays the ball well. He misses too many tackles. Brown has had difficulty staying healthy as he missed time in 2008 with a sprained ankle and a broken right forearm sidelined him for the last 3 games of his senior season. In 2010, he had 9 starts in his senior season Brown totaled 19 tackles and seven pass breakups. He’ll need to improve his off-man and zone coverage skills as well as his ball skills to be more than a reserve. He tests as an elite level athlete but plays like a slightly above average one. Brown should be drafted late in the 6th or the 7th as the Texas CB mystique may help him he is like a less polished and consistent version of Leodis McKelvin, 6.45.
28. Brandon Hogan 5’10 ¼ 192 [4.44 estimated], West Virginia Hogan is willing hitter who plays with toughness; he has a little Courtland Finnegan in his game. Hogan has to show he’s recovering from his torn ACL, his 19 repetitions at 225 are they only official testing numbers he has In 46 career games, Hogan has recorded 171 total tackles, 24 pass breakups, seven interceptions and four fumble recoveries. Hogan showed talent in his ability to get his hands on the ball, accelerating from trail position to get a PBU or interception, his ball skills have remained from his days as a WR those and his fluid movement skills were evident, he ran track at Osbourn HS, in addition to quarterbacking a VA state championship team, Hogan was recruited as a slot receiver to play in then-head coach Rich Rodriguez’s spread offense. However Hogan’s knee is not all that needs mending Hogan was arrested and charged with DUI in September and served a one-game suspension, when the Mountaineers hosted Maryland. That DUI charge came less than six months after Hogan was cited by police for disorderly conduct and public urination; his third arrest (driving on license suspended or revoked for DUI) will remind scouts of ‘Pac-Man’ Jones, but not in the good way. Hogan was a high as the late 3rd on some boards going into this year, now he’ll be lucky to be drafted.
29. Vance Cuff 5’10” 178, 4.53 Georgia He has missed time due to injuries and a 1game suspension following an arrest on misdemeanor charges, including driving with a suspended license. Cuff was riding a scooter on a closed road after his license had been suspended; he has had knee and shoulder injuries the past few seasons. In 2010 he appeared in 13 games, made five starts, recorded 22 tackles, a team-leading five pass break ups and an interception. Cuff plays fast and in spring testing he was hand-timed at 4.24 a UGA record. Still Cuff was only able to earn 6 starts in 2 years, partially due to injuries and disciplinary actions and partially due being out-performed by Brandon Boykin. Cuff’s raw talent might still get him drafted, his quickness, change of direction and ball skills may make him an ideal Nickel, he is like a smaller, less finished Travis Fisher, 6.35.
30. Anthony Gaitor 5’9 7/8” 177, 4.48 Florida International He has good coverage instincts and is quick; he has played CB, nickel and FS which shows football IQ. He was a four-year starter he compiled 197 tackles, 19 for loss, 4 sacks, 11 INTs, 25 PBUs, and 3 defensive TDs during his career. He shows reliable instincts in zone, is willing in run support and does a nice job breaking down and wrapping up the ball carrier or receiver. He is smallish, uncomfortable playing in man to man coverage and needs to stay lower and be smoother in his transition and backpedal. His frame and playing style is reminiscent of Brent Grimes, Gaitor is likely an early to mid-7th round selection he is a bit like Dre Bly, 6.3.
“The red/blue/green/yellow pants were cut prior to examination, revealing blue/red/white underwear. Black/white/green shoes were removed.”
