2021 NFL Draft: Three-round 2021 NFL mock draft with top 10 surprises
2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, 5th Overall
Pick Analysis. Virginia Tech. Caleb Farley. 5. 123. Scouting Report. CB. player
Unless they unexpectedly move on from quarterback Dak Prescott this offseason, defense will likely be the priority for the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Their defense has struggled mightily this season and they need an infusion of talent at all three levels. Many defenders would make sense for Dallas here at No. 5, but Virginia Tech cornerback Caleb Farley stands out as the best fit.
Farley is an extremely big and athletic cornerback prospect who shines in man-to-man coverage. He is listed at 6-foot-2, 207 pounds and he knows how to use his size to his advantage. With long arms and a strong base, Farley can absolutely suffocate receivers on the outside.
However, he is not just a big cornerback. This guy is a legitimately elite athlete who moves incredibly well for his size. Farley is extremely smooth in coverage and breaks on the ball in an instant. He can get up and compete for the ball in the air and also has the speed needed to shut down the deep passing game.
Farley is a bit of a raw player, as he has only played cornerback for a short time. This has led to some mental lapses on the field that simply will not be acceptable at the next level. That being said, this likely leaves room for even more upside in his game. The more snaps that Farley is able to get a cornerback, the better he is going to get. Considering that he is already fantastic as an outside cornerback prospect, that is an exciting thought.
The Dallas Cowboys need to add impact players to the defensive side of the ball and Farley undoubtedly fits the bill. He is a shutdown cornerback prospect in the making who is worthy of a top-five selection for a team like Dallas.