2015 NFL Draft: Top Cornerbacks to Watch
By Erik Lambert
Nov 29, 2013; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks cornerback Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (14) makes an interception against the Oregon State Beavers at Matthew Knight Arena. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Cornerbacks are all the rage in the pros, so the 2015 NFL draft is sure to spotlight the position. Who are the top prospects?
Ifo Ekpre-Olomu – Oregon
Winning a national championship has to be the primary reason why Ifo Ekpre-Olomu elected to pass on the 2014 draft. At the end of last season he was considered one of the top cornerbacks in the nation and a near certain 1st round pick. Despite limited height he’s agile, fast and has the movement skill to lock down dynamic receivers. If he needs to improve anywhere, it’s his strength to handle physical assignments.
P.J. Williams – Florida State
Meanwhile, winning the national championship is something P.J. Williams can cross off his list. His performance in that game against Auburn earned Defensive MVP honors and sparked the infamous comeback with a critical interception. He has size, speed and trademark Florida State athleticism. With some added consistency there really is no ceiling to what he can do and how high he could go in the 2015 NFL draft.
Trae Waynes – Michigan State
Being overshadowed by a campus legend can be tough. That was the case for Trae Waynes, who spent all of 2013 in the shadow of teammate Darqueze Dennard. It made it easy for people to overlook how well Waynes played on the opposite end in leading Michigan State to the Rose Bowl. He also played his best games in the biggest moments against Ohio State and Stanford. Size isn’t a problem at 6’1″ but like Dennard he will need to showcase his speed this season to crack the 1st round.
Jalen Mills – LSU
LSU has become a defensive back factory over the past few years and the current crop of corners they have brewing should further that reputation. At the top of the list is Jalen Mills. The 6’1″ corner was all over the field for the Tigers notching 67 tackles, three sacks and three interceptions. His steady improvement is a good sign for things to come. His coverage consistency still needs work but the measurable ability is there.
Alex Carter – Stanford
With the front seven getting so much attention at Stanford year in and year out, it’s a shame that the secondary gets forgotten at times. Alex Carter is a great example. As a full-time starter in 2013 he broke up eight passes and made 59 tackles. Perhaps what got him lost in the mire was only notching one interception. Improving that stat is critical because he certainly has the physical attributes of a top pick in the 2015 NFL draft.