Bleeding Green Nation
Cornerback is the deepest positional group among defenders in this draft class. Six of the top 10 cornerbacks in this class could go in the first round, and the top 15 should all be drafted in the first three rounds. For a cornerback needy team like the Eagles, there are lots of players to be had with their first three picks.
What he does well: Quinyon Mitchell was one of the stingiest cornerbacks in the country over the last two seasons. He has great athleticism and instincts that allow him to close on the football with ease. He did his best work in college playing off-coverage, allowing his speed and eyes to generate incompletions. He also has a solid, NFL build.
Where he can Improve: Mitchell has very little experience as a press-man coverage cornerback. He has the tools to do it, with a strong build and physical playing style, but it is a new technique he will need to learn in the NFL.
Pro Comparison: Darius Slay
What he does well: Cooper DeJean has a well rounded game as a coverage defender. He is reliable in man and zone coverage, displaying great instincts, athleticism, and a sense of poise when matched up one on one down the field. His most impressive trait may be his run defense. He is a fearless, physical tackler who can provide key defenses on the outside edges of a defense against ball carriers.
Where he can Improve: DeJean has very little experience in press-man coverage. Shorter arms may limit him here, though he has the physicality to challenge receivers at the line.
Pro Comparison: Charvarius Ward
What he does well: Kool-Aid McKinstry started as a freshman for Nick Saban, a testament to how advanced of a football player he is above the shoulders. McKinstry has great instincts and technique, with excellent man and zone coverage abilities. He is also a reliable, physical run defender.
Where he can Improve: McKinstry is a good, not great athlete. His easy movement on the field is more a testament to his confidence and instincts instead of pure athleticism.
Pro Comparison: Tre’Davious White
What he does well: Terrion Arnold is an aggressive,ball hawking cornerback who excelled in his one full year starting at Alabama. Arnold has a great burst that allows him to close on the ball and generate incompletions and turnovers. Arnold played on the outside and the slot at a relatively high level. He is also a really good run defender.
Where he can Improve: Arnold’s lack of experience translates into lack of consistency. His aggressive play style also means he can give up big plays by taking himself out of position. He is also on the lighter side and can get pushed around by more physical receivers.
Pro Comparison: L’jarius Sneed
What he does well: Mike Sainristil switched to cornerback in...
