Ras-I Dowling Scouting Report

This next scouting report we have is writtey by guest columnist Perry Biggerstaff of steelersuniverse.
We’re always open to guest writers so if you ever have a mock draft or scouting report you would like to submit to be featured on the front page you can email me at Bartolisj@gmail.com

Here’s Perry’s quick break-down of Ras-I Dowling

Ras-I Dowling, CB, Virginia
6’1, 198lbs
Combine 40: 4.40
Bench: 19 reps
Vertical: N/A
Broad jump: N/A
Projected Round: 2nd round
 
 
Occasionally an NFL prospect becomes the victim of media perception.  Dowling is a perfect example.   At the end of the 2009 season he was considered a first round pick with exceptional speed and instincts. In three years he had recorded 145 tackles, 28 PBU’s and 8 interceptions.  The 2010 season was a disappointment for the Virginia CB who missed the biggest part of the season with an ankle injury and subsequently most publications and draft sites red flagged Dowling as an injury risk.
 
The team willing to take a chance on Dowling will be getting a first round talent and probably an immediate starter.  He has a great size/speed combination and some of the best instincts/football intelligence of any cornerback in this draft.  Equally adept at zone coverage or man-to-man, showing the ability to cover either alignment. Has a higher backpedal than one would like and sometimes plays too high without sinking his hips. Both look to be correctable with a good DB coach.
 
Much better in run support that some give him credit for. He plants his feet and drives well when changing direction and is an aggressive tackler and big hitter. Dowling could be a little more physical when jamming receivers at the line. He has great intangibles with elite instincts, great football intelligence, maturity, and work ethic.
 
A good pro-day may elevate his draft status to as high as the bottom of the first round.