2015 NFL Draft: Defensive backs tall and talented

 

By Frank Cooney, Founder of the Sports Xchange

Based on offensive trends in the pass-happy National Football League, finding effective defensive backs is a tall order. So it is that the top four cornerbacks in this year’s draft, and seven of the first 11, are at least six feet tall — the better to cope with receivers that are getting bigger every season.

And those first four, six-foot defenders could all be taken in the opening round when the draft begins April 30, with as many as ten worthy of being selected in the first two rounds, according to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com.

Heading this class of big cornerbacks are Michigan State speedster Trae Williams and Wake Forest’s underweight but gifted Kevin Johnson. But, based on sheer physical ability, former Washington cornerback Marcus Peters could become the star of this group if he shows enough emotional maturity to handle the NFL better than he did college.

Alabama’s Landon Collins (6-0, 223), who entered college as the No. 1 rated prep safety, goes into the draft still the best at either strong or free safety and is expected to be selected in the top 20.

At free safety, Mississippi’s 6-2, 208-pound Cody Prewitt fits the need for big pass defenders and is expected to be selected before the second round is done.

Here is a closer look at the top defensive backs in the NFL’s 2015 draft (position rating/overall rating. Player, college, height, weight, 40-yard time, projected round. *=underclassman):

CORNERBACKS

1/12. *Trae Waynes, Michigan State, 6-0, 186, 4.31, 1 (Projected round)

–Bred for speed: The son of track-star parents — Ron and Erin Waynes — Trae was born to be fast, which became obvious at Bradford High School in Kenosha, Wis. He had the fastest time in 40 yards (4.37 seconds) at the 2010 Midwest Ultimate 100 Camp. Now he is faster and more experienced at cornerback, where he played three years for Michigan State and figures to be the first taken in the 2015 draft. His instincts and length make him the boss in most one-on-one situations. Waynes looks comfortable and menacing in press and cover-two assignments and should be an asset against the NFL’s tall and talented receivers, although he is a bit lanky himself.

–Measuring up: Waynes had the second-smallest hands at the combine (8 1/4 inches) but he still grabbed a high draft spot with a great display of running and jumping, including the second best 40-yard dash of 4.31 seconds (10 yards in 1.51; 20 in 2.55). He added a 37-inch vertical, a 10-foot-2 inch broad jump and benched 225 pounds 19 times. At his March 18 Pro Day, Waynes improved his 20-yard shuttle, timed in 4.19 seconds (4.39 at the Combine) and in the 60-yard shuttle (11.24).

–Notable quote: “I think I could’ve run a little faster, too, even though my 40-yard dash was faster than I expected. I was hoping 4.3 seconds and got 4.31. Other than that, I think I showed a smooth backpedal, efficient footwork. Hopefully, coaches think my movement and footwork is smooth.” — Waynes, in his blog, reflecting on combine workouts.

–Frankly: Draft him, feed him, play him. Although a bit scrawny, Waynes has the speed and length to run with the NFL’s big dogs.

2/26. Kevin Johnson, Wake Forest, 6-0, 188, 4.52, 1-2

–The Skinny: Despite displaying excellent durability throughout his high school and college career, Johnson’s thin frame was a concern for NFL scouts. Otherwise, Johnson showed top-tier abilities at cornerback as a smooth-moving athlete with excellent technique, instinct and ball skills. He added value as a coverage man on special teams. Scouts still recall Johnson entered college weighing only 154 pounds, but they should remember that was after rushing 137 times for 1,220 yards, 15 touchdowns and no injuries as a senior running back at River Hill High School (Clarksville, Md.). Then the only missed time at Wake Forest was the 2011 season due to academic ineligibility. Otherwise, Johnson started 41 games, including all 36 in his final three seasons as he evolved into a respected, vocal team leader.

–Measuring up: Johnson made a needed statement at the Combine just by weighing in at 188 pounds, about 10-to-15 more than expected. His 40-yard dash of 4.52 seconds was average, but he showed explosion and lateral agility otherwise, with a 41.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-10 inch broad jump; 6.79 seconds in 3-cone drill and 3.89 in the short shuttle. Scouts still question Johnson’s strength after he passed on bench press at Combine and March 2 Pro Day.

–Notable quote: “I’m the best cornerback in the draft. I think I’m a lockdown cornerback. … I have excellent feet, hips, ball skills, I’m a competitor, a student of the game and I’m a playmaker.” — Johnson at the Combine, showing pre-requisite self-confidence for a cornerback.

–Frankly: Watching games, Johnson’s skinny frame is indeed as notable as his consistently excellent play. Maybe it is time to realize that those NFL rule changes to make life safer for wide receivers might also change the physical requirements for cornerbacks.

3/29. *Marcus Peters, Washington, 6-0, 197, 4.53, 1-2

–Boom or Bust: Before evaluating Peters’ significant ability on the field, it is imperative to understand the status of his personal maturity and accountability. He grew up in the game, with a father who is now the head coach at Oakland’s McClymonds High School. But after three suspensions and ultimate dismissal from Washington last November, Peters apparently didn’t grow up personally. He cites the departure of Washington coach Steve Sarkasian as the catalyst for issues that included arguing with new coaches. On the field, in 2013 his coverage and play-making skills were worthy of a first-round draft pick, but his sloppy play in 2014 seemed to reflect his personal issues. Peters, obviously prepped to do so, now says all the right things and claims a newborn son, Carson, helped him mature. Maybe, maybe not.

–Measuring up: At Combine, exact height was 5-feet-11 5/8ths with smaller than average hands (8 3/4 inches) and arms (31.5 inches). But he showed decent athletic ability. Peters’ 40 yard dash was just OK in 4.53 seconds (10 in 1.59; 20 in 2.66), but he showed explosion with vertical jump of 37.5 inches and broad jump of 10-feet-1 inch. Peters benched 225 pounds 17 times. He has permission to take part in Washington’s Pro Day on April 2.

–Notable quote: “Yes, a whole lot. It humbled me a real lot. And what really has humbled me is me having a child. Me bringing a child into this world has really humbled me a whole lot because now I have to be able to provide for someone other than myself. I have someone that is looking up to me a lot so I have to be 100 percent mature.” — Peters at Combine, when asked if being dismissed humbled him.

–Frankly: Peters may be worth the risk if drafted onto a team with a strong, veteran locker room. It is hard to weigh value of recent proclamations that reflect personal coaching, including input from Seattle Seahawks controversial running back and family friend Marshawn Lynch.

4/37. *P.J. Williams, Florida State, 6-0, 194, 4.57, 1-2

–Hands-on style: Williams plays with a feisty flair, talks the talk then backs it up. He can be an outstanding coverage corner if he keeps his hands to himself downfield in the flag-happy NFL. His big moment was in the 2014 BCS National Championship game with seven tackles, an interception and the Defensive MVP award. His low moment was a controversial car accident last November, resulting in citations for leaving scene and driving on suspended license. Williams can help immediately on special teams, both in coverage and as a returner, a skill he showed way back as a sophomore at Ocala’s Vangard High School when he averaged 33.8 yards per runback with four touchdowns.

–Measuring up: Williams said he was impacted by illness at Combine, where his workouts were mixed. A 40-yard time of 4.57 is slower than expected and he was less than impressive in position and agility drills. He showed excellent explosion with a 40-inch vertical jump and an 11-foot broad jump, but vowed to improve everything at his March 31 Pro Day.

–Notable quote: “Because of my physicality and the cornerback position, and being athletic enough to run with wide receivers and with me having the ability to make a lot of tackles.” — Williams at Combine, when asked why a team should take him in the first round.

–Frankly: This is an example of when not to let a single bad workout trump excellent play in numerous games. Williams has the athleticism and attitude to play this tough position and could be as good as any cornerback in this draft.

5/44. Quinten Rollins, Miami (OH), 5-11, 195, 4.57, 2

–Two-timing thief: A football and basketball star out of Wilmington High School in Ohio, Rollins arrived at Miami on a basketball scholarship and in four years compiled 214 steals, second most in school history. Absent a real NBA future as a 5-foot-11 inch guard, Rollins tried out for football as a senior and went from zero to hero in that one season. Named MAC Defensive Player of the Year, Rollins finished with 72 tackles and a conference high seven interceptions, third in the nation. Using many skills that transfer from basketball, Rollins shows instincts, awareness and reaction worthy of a four-year football letterman. But he is still early in the learning curve overall and must improve his technique backpedaling and knowing when to flip and run.

–Measuring up: His Combine workouts were acceptable, with a 40-yard time of 4.57 seconds that included a decent 10-yard split of 1.61 seconds. Predictably, he jumped well going 36.5 inches in the vertical and 10-feet-2 inches in the broad jump. Basketball players often lack strength, but Rollins had 14 reps on the bench (225 pounds), decent for a 195-pounder.

–Notable quote: “I just have a knack for the ball – a natural knack for the ball. I’ve always had that since I was a kid. Love getting steals, love getting interceptions. I was fortunate enough to be an offensive player in high school so that’s where I get my ball skills from. It all translates.” — Rollins at Combine, when asked about his knack as a thief.

–Frankly: There is precedent for Rollins’ move to football. Recent history features basketball power forwards converting to pass-catching tight ends (Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates). In 1962, Dallas Cowboys personnel chief Gil Brandt, a mere pup at 29 years old, followed a tip on a Utah State basketball star who never played a down of football. Brandt agreed that the kid showed defensive skills on the hardcourt that could convert to cornerback. That kid, Cornell Green, became a five-time All-Pro and one of the many stories still told by Brandt, now a (very) senior analyst for NFL.com and SiriusXM NFL Radio. Rollins has the ability, but will need time and tutoring.

6/54. *Jalen Collins, Louisiana State, 6-1, 203, 4.48, 2

–Promises, promises: Despite playing well when given a chance, Collins remains an unfulfilled promise compared to high expectations early in his career. And now scouts must weigh the impact of foot surgery he underwent March 19. Early reports indicate it was minor and he will be ready for minicamp, but nothing is guaranteed. A dynamic high-school star from Olive Branch, Miss., Collins earned the “Most Improved” award in the spring of 2012 at LSU and was penciled in to fill the void left when fabled/infamous (pick one) Honey Badger Tyrann Mathieu was dismissed in August. Although he intercepted Johnny Manziel to set up a touchdown in an upset win over Texas A&M that year, Collins never became a regular first stringer. Issues reportedly included minor run-ins with coaches and inconsistency retaining specific responsibilities. So, he enters the draft with only 10 starts. Still, his natural, unbridled talent is easy to see. He is aggressive, fearless and athletic, but very inconsistent. Collins entered draft despite NFL Advisory committee’s report indicating he should stay in school.

–Measuring up: Collins, at exactly 6-foot-1 1/2 inches and 203 pounds, certainly looks the part. His Combine numbers are also respectable, especially if he managed them on a foot that needed surgery. His results including a 40-yard run in 4.48 seconds, a 36-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot-4 inch broad jump. He will miss his pro day March 27.

–Notable quote: “Try to take my game to another level. Become a game of the student. I mean a student of the game. Put extra time in in the film room, learn everything I can from the other guys and work hard like I’ve been doing.” — Collins at Combine, when asked what he needs to become NFL ready.

–Frankly: First Collins must be 100 percent after the foot surgery. Then, he must focus to maximize his raw ability, something he did not do consistently in college. Before drafting Collins, a team should determine if he can grasp the necessary demands of their specific defense.

7/55. Byron Jones, Connecticut, 6-1, 199, 4.49, 2

–One giant leap for mankind: Jones was a lightly-regarded defensive back prospect before the Combine, when he literally jumped up the draft boards with an epic workout, including a world record broad jump of 12-feet-3 inches. He leap-frogged the previous record of Norwegian Arne Tvervaag, whose 12-2 stood as the world record since 1968. After revisiting game tapes, scouts had a renewed appreciation for Jones. A well-respected, well-built team captain at Connecticut, his senior season and college career ended last October when he needed surgery to repair a bothersome left shoulder. His seven-game totals included 24 tackles, four pass breakups and two interceptions, one he returned 70 yards for a touchdown. Jones was a physical, savvy team leader who could play safety or cornerback. He started 37 games, six as a freshman safety, in a career that totaled eight interceptions, 18 passes defended and 223 tackles.

–Measuring up: Almost overlooked in the commotion caused by his world record broad jump was the fact that Jones didn’t run the 40-yard dash because he was only six weeks into serious rehab. But while waiting for that at his March 31 Pro Day, it is notable that he also soared 44.5 inches in the vertical jump, sixth best Combine leap this century according to NFLDraftScout.com, and was impressive in the 3-cone drill (6.78 seconds) and short shuttle (3.94 seconds).

–Notable quote: “I feel it may have boosted it up a little bit, but at the end of the day the film is what is most important. You’ve got to have good film, so I’m relying on that.” — Jones, putting in perspective the value of his world record broad jump.

–Frankly: In November, after Jones’ surgery, NFLDraftScout.com rated Jones No. 106 overall, the 13th best cornerback and a third- or fourth-round prospect. When he was unable to play in the Senior Bowl, Jones dropped into late-round, free-agent territory. Upon further review, this is where he seems to fit for now. Hey, nobody said this was an exact science.

8/66. *Ronald Darby, Florida State, 5-11, 193, 4.38, 2-3

–Speed indeed: Darby established his reputation at Potomac High School in Oxon Hill, Maryland, as one of the fastest preps in the country, both in track and football, where he played six different positions on offense, defense, and special teams. He was a member of the gold medal-winning USA medley relay at the 2011 World Youth Championships in France and not surprisingly won the 100-yard and 200-yard dashes to help Potomac High School win the state 3A track championship in Maryland. He also keyed a defense that had four shutouts. He earned ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year honors as a true freshman at FSU and began to make a statement that he brought some physicality with his speed. In 2014 he had a career-high 43 tackles and two interceptions. Off the field, he faced charges of sexual intimidation in a case that initially involved two other players, including quarterback Jameis Winston. But a disciplinary board opted not to dismiss or expel any of the players.

–Measuring up: Darby’s 40-yard time of 4.38 seconds was third fastest among defensive backs at the combine and his vertical jump of 41 1/2 inches was tied for best in the group. Add a broad jump of 10-feet-9 inches testify to his elite explosiveness.

–Notable quote: “We pushed each other a lot. That’s also like one of my closest friends other than Jameis (Winston). Like every day, if he makes a pass break-up, I want to make a pass break-up. If he makes a big hit or big tackle, I want to make a big hit or big tackle. And if I do the same, he wants to do it. We just pushed each other.” — Darby at combine, when asked about playing in same backfield with P. J. Williams, rated the No. 4 cornerback in this draft and projected as a first or second round pick.

–Frankly: Darby brings more to the game than his extraordinary speed. He harnesses that speed to his natural athletic ability and a willingness to be physical. Although he is not as tall as teams want their cornerbacks and he is still refining his skills, Darby’s range and jumping ability will compensate for shortcomings as he improves.

9/72. D’Joun (DJ) Smith, Florida Atlantic, 5-10, 187, 4.45, 2-3

–Miami Nice: With so many high-school stars in Miami, the big school college recruiters focused elsewhere when Smith was suspended four games for the latest in too many illegal hits as a junior. Florida Atlantic stayed by him and –although benched part of his junior year at FAU for what he says were poor practices — Smith matured and returned the favor last year. He passed on the draft to play his senior season as team captain. After a bruised shoulder in the season opener, his 2014 season wasn’t as impressive as 2013. That’s when he grabbed the attention of pro scouts. He was among the NCAA leaders with 20 passes defensed and seven interceptions. Smith is quicker than fast and has intriguing man coverage skills. Rob Rang, NFLDraftScout.com’s senior analyst, was impressed by Smith’s footwork and physicality in Senior Bowl practices.

–Measuring up: Exactly 5-foot-10 inches tall, Smith had the smallest hands at the Combine (8 1/8 inches), perhaps explaining why he didn’t use his ball skills as a receiver. He had an excellent 40-yard time of 4.45 seconds, and a vertical jump of 36 inches. For his overall size, 18 reps on the bench (225 pounds) is pretty good. Smith’s Pro Day is April 2.

–Notable quote: “I can take out the best player in man-to-man. In the NFL, they play press and play man-to-man defense so there’s a lot of trust. A lot of responsibility. I like that. I want to try and take out the top receiver.” — Smith describing his play and his goal.

–Frankly: Smith must be more consistent overall and keep his speed under control so it doesn’t run him out of plays, but he does have the athleticism to play on the NFL level.

10/76. *Alex Carter, Stanford, 6-0, 196, 4.51, 2-3

–Let’s get physical: Although his father, Tom Carter, was a 1993 first-round pick (Washington Redskins) out of Notre Dame, Alex has not wowed NFL scouts and their opinions differ widely. His physicality was obvious from the start when he caused three fumbles as a freshman and finished his career with 146 tackles, 106 solo. Carter is still refining footwork in tight man cover, but is disciplined and especially effective in zone and off-man coverage where he can read the quarterback and jump routes. But, despite explosive quickness and jumping ability, he managed only two interceptions in 40 games. Carter suffered a torn labrum late in 2013 season and missed spring practice last year with a hip problem. He said he played at about 80 to 85 percent efficiency for much of the last two seasons.

–Measuring up: Carter has good length at 1/8th inch over six feet tall with an impressive wing span of 79 5/8th inches and a 40-inch vertical jump. All that increases his area of influence as a pass defender. His electronic 40-yard time at the combine was 4.51 seconds and his hand-held time of 4.45 at Stanford’s March 18 Pro Day is, realistically, pretty much the same.

–Notable quote: “Coach Akina came in and really taught us how to play, how to see everything. That’s helped me a lot. I know what to look for. I know how to study. I know the game of football better. That makes me feel better going forward.” — Carter, referring to former Texas defensive backs coach Duane Akina, who actually suggested Carter would benefit from another year in college.

–Frankly: Carter has good size, instincts and range to go with his aggressive style of play. He could help as a safety who has coverage ability to help man up against three-wide receiver sets.

11/87. Josh Shaw, Southern Cal, 6-0, 201, 4.44, 3

–Storied prospect: Shaw was impressive on and off the field until one ill-advised decision became big news, then bigger news when he admitted he lied. Shaw was known as a guy who, for example, went on a mission to Haiti in 2012 to help rebuilt houses. But last August he jumped from his second-floor balcony and injured both ankles. He first said it was to help a young relative struggling in the pool, then admitted he really jumped when he saw police arriving after he argued with his girlfriend. Between a suspension and the injury, Shaw played only three games last season. Scouts who already thought was a decent cornerback or safety prospect with good character, were left to juggle the balcony drama. The former Palmdale (Calif.) High prep star first went to Florida before returning west due help issues within his family. He is long, well-muscled and plays better in zones than in man. He looked good in both the East-West Shrine and Senior Bowl workouts.

–Measuring up: At 6 feet- 1/2 inch, 201 pounds, Shaw ran the 40-yard dash in 4.44 seconds, tied for the third-fastest among the 29 defensive backs at the combine. His 26 reps on the bench with 225 pounds was the most for a defensive back. His explosion is reflected by a 37 1/2 inch vertical jump and a 10-foot-10 inch broad jump.

Notable quote: “I thought I could find an easy way out of something, but that doesn’t work – I have made a mistake, and I have paid for it. And whether I do play or don’t play again, I’ll be forever grateful for USC for giving me a chance.” — Shaw in an interview with Bill Plaschke of the Los Angeles Times.

–Frankly: On balance, Shaw appears to be a basically good person who made a stupid mistake and fessed up, although a bit late. He isn’t perfect as a defensive back, either, but should get a shot to show who he really is on and off the field.

12/89. Doran Grant, Ohio State, 5-10, 200, 4.44, 3

–All in the family: Grant has lengthy family bloodlines — father Ted Jones (MSU wide receiver 1980-82), cousin Beanie Wells (OSU running back, 2009 first round pick, Arizona) and cousin Kevin White (W. Virginia wide receiver, projected first round draftee this year). Grant established reputation as a speed burner at St. Vincent-St. Mary (Akron, Ohio) where he won state hurdles titles (110 meters outdoor, 60 meters indoor) with speed that helped him star as a receiver, defensive back and returner. He played in 54 games at Ohio State, starting 30 and taking over leadership role in 2014. Grant is well-muscled for press coverage and looks fast and fluid flipping and running.

–Measuring up: Although cousin Devin White’s 40 yard time (4.35 seconds) was better than Grant’s (4.44), the Buckeye speedster had the quickest 10-yard time among all defensive backs (1.52). Grant also has weapons of destruction with large hands (9 3/8 inches) and strength to bench 225 pounds 21 times. For a guy with the fastest 10-yard time, Grant’s explosion in jumps were disappointing — 33 inches in the vertical and 9-feet-8 inches in the broad jump.

— Notable quote: “Coverage skills and being able to come up in run support as a physical corner and a fast one who can cover. Being able to be a great leader. I know NFL teams want leadership, they want grown men on their team, and I think I can provide that also.” — Grant at combine when asked to describe his strengths.

–Frankly: Tough, fast and a natural leader on a national championship team, Grant might be a steal in the third round.

13/104. Steven Nelson, Oregon State, 5-10, 197, 4.49, 2-3

–The full Nelson: Feisty, fast and a force against the run, Nelson is a no-nonsense cornerback with an excellent feel for all aspects of playing cornerback. Nelson starred in track and football at Northside High School in Warner Robbins, Ga., where he returned seven punts for touchdowns as a senior. After two productive years at northern California’s College of Sequoias (71 tackles, 19 pass breakups, six interceptions), he was an instant hit for Oregon State with four interceptions in his first four games and finished 2013 with six interceptions, including a game-deciding pick six against San Diego State. In 2014, passers didn’t test Nelson as often, but he still had two interceptions and helped end first-round wide receiver prospect Jaelen Strong’s streak of touchdown games at five in a win over Arizona State. Nelson ended his college playing career as a standout in Senior Bowl workouts.

–Measuring up: A muscular 5-foot-10 1/8th inch (not counting a headful of dreadlocks), 197 pounds, Nelson should be called compact rather than small. His excellent 40-yard time of 4.49 seconds (10 in 1.57; 20 in 2.63) shows up in games, as does the strength reflected by 19 reps on the bench (225 pounds), fourth best among defensive backs at the Combine. Unlike most players with good Combine numbers, Nelson took part in his March 13 Pro Day, which included hand-held 40-yard times as low as 4.38 seconds and returned a few punts.

–Notable quote: “A lot of the scouts are telling me they like the way I play, physical, and I’m out there just trying to win and stuff like that. So they like that tenacity.” — Nelson after a full workout at his March 13 Pro Day.

–Frankly: Nelson looks and plays like the real deal and may be as NFL ready as any cornerback in this draft. Fast, physical, hard-working and a responsible father to son Steven Nelson III. A lot to like here.

Also:
14/114. Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, Oregon, 5-09, 192, 4.52, 3-4
15/118. Eric Rowe, Utah, 6-1, 205, 4.45, 3-4
16/127. Senquez Golson, Mississippi, 5-09, 176, 4.46, 4
17/132. *Jacoby Glenn, Central Florida, 6-0, 179, 4.64, 4
18/138. Kevin White, Texas Christian, 5-09, 183, 4.63, 4
19/148. Charles Gaines, Louisville, 5-10, 180, 4.44, 4-5
20/155. Justin Cox, Mississippi State, 6-1, 191, 4.36, 4-5
21/159. *Lorenzo Doss, Tulane, 5-10, 182, 4.50, 4-5
22/169. JaCorey Shepherd, Kansas, 5-11, 199, 4.54, 5
23/177. Nick Marshall, Auburn, 6-1, 207, 4.54, 5
24/182. Ladarius Gunter, Miami (FL), 6-1, 202, 4.69, 5-6
25/189. Quandre Diggs, Texas, 5-09, 196, 4.56, 5-6
26/211. Deshazor Everett, Texas AM, 5-11, 188, 4.49, 6
27/215. Craig Mager, Texas State, 5-11, 201, 4.44, 6
28/229. Damian Swann, Georgia, 6-0, 189, 4.50, 6-7
29/235. Cam Thomas, Western Kentucky, 6-0, 195, 4.53, 6-7
30/244. Bobby McCain, Memphis, 5-09, 195, 4.51, 7
31/256. Justin Coleman, Tennessee, 5-11, 185, 4.53, 7
32/265. Imoan Claiborne, Northwestern State, 5-10, 189, 4.53, 7-FA
33/270. Bernard Blake, Colorado State, 5-11, 177, 4.52, 7-FA
34/301. Bryce Callahan, Rice, 5-09, 184, 4.49, 7-FA
35/312. Troy Hill, Oregon, 5-10, 182, 4.55, 7-FA
36/321. Curtis Riley, Fresno State, 6-0, 190, 4.52, 7-FA
37/335. Jonathon Mincy, Auburn, 5-10, 191, 4.55, 7-FA
38/346. Julian Wilson, Oklahoma, 6-2, 205, 4.58, 7-FA
39/357. Cody Riggs, Notre Dame, 5-09, 186, 4.56,
40/372. SaQwan Edwards, New Mexico, 6-0, 200, 4.52,
41/383. DeAnte Saunders, Tennessee State, 5-09, 185, 4.50,
42/394. Randall Evans, Kansas State, 6-0, 190, 4.57,

SAFETIES

1 (SS)/17. *Landon Collins, Alabama, 6-0, 228, 4.53, 1

–Still on top: Collins was the No. 1 rated safety coming out of high school and is the top rated safety in this draft, which is unusual considering he is basically a strong safety. Collins played both strong and free in college, but is much more effective using his aggression as an attacker than he is in coverage. Collins is long and strong enough to deal with tight ends and battle them for the ball, but not fluid or fast enough to handle clever little slot receivers. His aggressive nature works against him when he overreacts to play-action or is looked off by a quarterback.

–Measuring up: A big man at 228 pounds with big, strong hands (9 3/8-inches), excellent explosion (35-inch vertical jump; 10-foot broad jump) and decent speed (40 yards in 4.53 seconds; 10 yards in 1.57). He stood on those combine stats at his March 13 pro day.

–Notable quote: “My physical play coming downhill from that safety position or being in the box. If I could compare myself (to someone), Kam Chancellor (Seattle Seahawks). But I always idolized myself after Sean Taylor. That’s my model. His physical presence and passion for the game. You could see it every time he touched the field.” — Collins at combine, asked about his greatest strength and a player to whom he compares himself.

–Frankly: A hard-working, well-built, powerful athlete with quick feet, great attitude and the ability to step in and help an NFL defense immediately. With all that, he has even more upside. Great investment.

2 (FS)/64. Cody Prewitt, Mississippi, 6-2, 208, 4.60, 2

–Tall and talented: Here is a tall safety who might be able to help against the proliferation of productive tight ends. After playing some strong safety his freshman year at Mississippi, Prewitt found a home at free safety where he started all 13 games as a sophomore and was second on the team with 80 tackles and defensed six passes. As a junior, he garnered All-America honors in 2013 with 71 tackles, 13 passes defensed and a SEC-best six interceptions. Last season, he totaled 64 tackles, five passes defensed and three interceptions and was a first-team All-SEC selection for the second straight year. Prewitt is an aggressive and reliable tackler with enough instinct to snag a dozen interceptions in his career.

–Measuring up: Long — exactly 6-feet2 inches tall with 32 5/8th inch arms, 9 1/8th inch hands and a 79 1/8th wing span. Prewitt’s speed was disappointing at the Combine (40 yards in 4.60 seconds on electronic timer) but he was clocked in 4.47 seconds by hand held watches at March 13 pro day. He showed above average explosion at combine (35 inch vertical jump; 10-foot-5 inch broad jump) but benched 225 pounds only 11 times, possibly because of a lingering shoulder problem.

–Notable quote: “Nose for the ball with opportunistic ball skills to track and attack (12 career interceptions). Emotional leader and not afraid to get into the face of his teammates to praise or coach up. Productive starting experience (41 career starts) as a two-time First Team All-SEC member and 2013 All-American.” — NFLDraftscout.com senior analyst Rob Rang, on Prewitt.

–Frankly: Although his instincts helped steal 12 passes, his aggressiveness often gets him in trouble. Prewitt has the length NFL teams are seeking in defensive backs and if he just plays under control he should be an asset against NFL receivers who are getting taller each year.

ALSO: Strong Safeties:
2/73. Ibraheim Campbell, Northwestern, 5-11, 208, 4.59, 2-3
3/92. Jaquiski Tartt, Samford, 6-1, 221, 4.53, 3
4/123. *James Sample, Louisville, 6-2, 209, 4.56, 3-4
5/143. Clayton Geathers, Central Florida, 6-2, 218, 4.55, 4-5
6/175. Jordan Richards, Stanford, 5-11, 211, 4.65, 5
7/193. Erick Dargan, Oregon, 5-11, 217, 4.62, 5-6
8/210. Anthony Jefferson, UCLA, 6-1, 198, 4.72, 6
9/241. Kyshoen Jarrett, Virginia Tech, 5-10, 200, 4.57, 7
10/263. Sam Carter, Texas Christian, 6-0, 216, 4.63, 7-FA
11/289. Brian Blechen, Utah, 6-2, 216, 4.70, 7-FA
12/305. Damian Parms, Florida Atlantic, 6-1, 206, 4.59, 7-FA
13/325. Isaiah Johnson, Georgia Tech, 6-1, 213, 4.56, 7-FA
14/342. Ronald Martin, LSU, 6-1, 217, 4.59, 7-FA

ALSO: Free Safeties:
2/75. Damarious Randall, Arizona State, 5-11, 196, 4.46, 2-3
3/94. Derron Smith, Fresno State, 5-10, 200, 4.52, 3
4/110. *Gerod Holliman, Louisville, 6-0, 218, 4.54, 3-4
5/141. *Durrell Eskridge, Syracuse, 6-3, 208, 4.63, 4
6/150. Kurtis Drummond, Michigan State, 6-1, 208, 4.65, 4-5
7/183. Adrian Amos, Penn State, 6-0, 218, 4.56, 5-6
8/208. Anthony Harris, Virginia, 6-1, 183, 4.56, 6
9/233. *Chris Hackett, Texas Christian, 6-0, 195, 4.81, 6-7
10/251. Tevin McDonald, Eastern Washington, 5-11, 195, 4.63, 7
11/286. Detrick Bonner, Virginia Tech, 6-0, 207, 4.56, 7-FA
12/304. Dean Marlowe, James Madison, 6-1, 203, 4.58, 7-FA
13/322. Nick Perry, Alabama, 6-0, 205, 4.63, 7-FA
14/339. Dechane Durante, Northern Illinois, 6-2, 194, 4.56, 7-FA
15/350. TraMayne Bondurant, Arizona, 5-10, 212, 4.54, 7-FA

—Frank Cooney, founder and publisher of The Sports Xchange and NFLDraftScout.com, is in his 50th year covering football and is a selector for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.