Bunting NFL Draft: Ranking the cornerback class by tiers

[RS12]

Tier 1

Morris Claiborne: Louisiana State (6-0,185)
The top corner in this year's draft. He's tall and long which allows him to play big off the line. However, he showcases the footwork, balance and quick-twitch ability of a much smaller corner out of his breaks. With improved technique he should mature into one of the leagues best.

Tier 2

Dre Kirkpatrick: Alabama (6-3, 192)
Will be an ideal zone corner at the next level because of his size, instincts and physicality. However, he can also press off the line and consistently re-route receivers. Isn't a dynamic quick-twitch athlete, but showcases good balance, can keep his feet under him and looks like a "plus" caliber starting cornerback in the NFL. Reminds me some of Chargers cornerback Quinton Jammer physically.


Janoris Jenkins: North Alabama (5-10, 182)
If he can put it all together off the field, he's got the ability to develop into a very good cover man in the NFL and despite his size he's going to be a really tough guy to separate from in just about any scheme he plays in.

Tier 3

Stephon Gilmore: South Carolina (6-1, 193)
Is a "plus" sized corner with good quickness and fluidity. Needs to clean up his footwork in off/zone concepts, but has skill set to play near the line, check receivers and turn and run. Should be able to fight for a starting role during his rookie year in more of a zone scheme.

Brandon Boykin: Georgia (5-10, 183)
Plays much bigger/strong than his frame would indicate. Has the ability to press on the edge, but might be better suited to play as a slot guy in the NFL. Either way can play a role on a defense in either a man or zone scheme.

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/...dium=twitt er

[Teague31]

I seriously doubt Gilmore will be Tier 3 come draft time.

[JackWagon]

Originally Posted by Teague31

I seriously doubt Gilmore will be Tier 3 come draft time.

Ive seen a couple quotes from guys saying Gilmore is almost as good as the kid from LSU. He might be the 2nd best corner in the draft.

[btcutter]

Kirpatrick will be moved to FS in the NFL.

You need to be quick as a CB in NFL. Long speed is nice but quickness is a must.

[jblaze2004]

Originally Posted by btcutter

Kirpatrick will be moved to FS in the NFL.

You need to be quick as a CB in NFL. Long speed is nice but quickness is a must.

this victor cruz will eat him up. kirpatrick might do good vs wr's like roy williams (who).

[btcutter]

Originally Posted by jblaze2004

this victor cruz will eat him up. kirpatrick might do good vs wr's like roy williams (who).

That's why RW is still a FA and why Kirpatrick will play FS facing QB and react to deliver vicious hits.

Days of Ty Law mobbing WRs are over. NFL won't allow that type of contact.

[Future]

Amazing how far Dennard has fallen.

[burmafrd]

sorry but a doofus like Jenkins is not tier 2. Anyone like that who has red flags coming out the *** is not that high

[Aikbach]

I find it intriguing all these SEC corners are ranked so high in a conference that doesn't pass.