Eric Rowe: Utah CB/S NFL Draft Scouting Report
Utah CB/S Eric Rowe had one of the best combine performances among his fellow cornerbacks, ranking at the top of every category. With a 4.45 forty yard dash and a 39 inch vertical jump, Rowe is due to be a hot commodity at the draft in April.
Below is a full 2015 NFL Draft scouting report with measurables, tape and pro comparisons.
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Measurables and Combine Results
Strengths
First off, Rowe has very good size for the position. He measured in at the combine at 6’1, which is typically about three inches taller than the average NFL cornerback. His arms are also incredibly longer than average, measuring at 31.5″.
Rowe is a fairly versatile defensive back. He can line up on the line as a cornerback, or he can set deep as a safety. Teams can also use Rowe as a gunner on special teams thanks to his excellent tackling ability.
As a safety, which he hasn’t played on a regular basis since the 2013 season, he shows good open field tackling ability to go with very good play instincts. Both of these traits are seen in this GIF from 2012 against Arizona.
One of Eric Rowe’s best attributes though is his run support. He can shed blockers and get to the runner more consistently than most. His long arms allow him to wrap up, which he can do the majority of the time. He isn’t necessarily a cover-corner, but he stays with his man well on shallow routes
Weaknesses
Though Rowe ran exceptionally well at the combine, his long distance speed is questionable. He doesn’t have that “second gear” he can use to stay close to speed guys on the outside. His backpedaling technique is also weak, but that is something he can polish in training camp.
A classic example of receivers using their speed to get past Rowe is against UCLA in 2014. This tape can also bring his change of direction into question.
Game Tape
Pro-Comparison
Eric Rowe is drawing comparisons around the league to the Cleveland Browns sophomore cornerback Pierre Desir, who was a fourth round pick out of Lindenwood last season.
Draft Projection
Eric Rowe is projected to be taken on the second day of the draft, most likely in the second round. Teams will be very interested in his ability to play safety, which is where many will decide to play him.