2021 NFL Draft: 5 Pac-12 prospects most affected by cancelled season

1. Paulson Adebo, CB, Stanford

This cancelation most affects players who returned for another year to work on their game and improve their stock for the 2021 NFL Draft. One of those players is Stanford cornerback Paulson Adebo. Adebo is entering his senior season with the Cardinal, which does make him eligible for the Senior Bowl if it happens, but other than that, his college career looks about done.

In his first season as a starter in 2018, Adebo recorded four interceptions and 17 passes defensed. As a junior, he played in just nine games but had another four interceptions and 10 passes defensed. You can’t argue with the production he’s put up over the past couple of seasons.

As far as traits go, there are plenty of positives. It’s clear his ball skills are top-notch, and he’s very physical at the catch point. Adebo can also play press at the line of scrimmage and reroute wide receivers.

His biggest weaknesses right now occur in coverage deeper down the field. Receivers can beat him vertically because of his lack of long speed, and he often loses his man in coverage due to average athleticism. His change of direction skills could use some improvement. The 2020 season was going to be Adebo’s chance to prove he could be a top 50 selection, but it’s up in the air now.