By: Brandon Wangrin
1. Joe Haden- Florida
Without a doubt the best cornerback in the draft. Haden obviously was one of the key reasons Florida had a top 5 defense, because he can shut down opposing receivers. Haden has perfect size and top end speed. The two things I love most about him is his shut down ability and his closing speed. He can close quickly on the wide receiver screen and also stay with you on the bump-and-run deep ball.
2. Kareem Jackson- Alabama
Want to start by saying 2-6 are not much far apart from each other and the combine will effect where they go in the draft. Jackson was a three year starter at the Alabama and shut down many #1 receivers in his time there. Nick Saban knows how to coach defensive backs, so you know mentally Jackson is ready to go in the NFL. Physically, he has the speed to bump you at the line or understand how to sit back in a zone. He rarely gets beat deep and is often left on an island.
3. Patrick Robinson- FSU
I really like Robinson’s upside. He is a real speedy guy, who is a natural playmaker. He can change the game quickly with an interception, but does need to work a little on his “shut-down” capabilities. I believe it will take him a year or two to become a starter, but he will serve as a nice nickel back because I believe he will be able to rush the quarterback well.
4. Donovan Warren- Michigan
Warren is a natural football player. He has good speed and has played a lot of man-to-man for Michigan. He is a confident player that plays with a lot of swagger, which I think is necessary at his position. But, he does get beat often and may get picked on in his early years in the NFL.
5. Kyle Wilson- Boise State
Wilson and McCourty are flying up scouts boards. The NFL is changing in that they love cornerbacks who can cover man-to-man and shut receivers down. Wilson has no problem in that department, but may struggle on a team that likes to zone. If he runs a top 40 time, look for him to shoot up the board.
6. Devin McCourty- Rutgers
McCourty is a speed demon and very well may run the fastest 40 time in the draft. That could shoot him up to the first round.
7. Javier Arenas- Alabama
I love Arenas’ tackling, returning, and leadership ability, but I believe he lacks top end speed to ever be a #1 cornerback.
8. Trevard Lindley- Kentucky
9. Perrish Cox- Oklahoma State
10. Chris Cook- Virginia
NFL Draft Report 