2021 NFL Draft cornerback rankings: Patrick Surtain II leads strong group
By John Blair
8. Asante Samuel Jr, Florida State
5-10, 184 pounds
2021 NFL Draft grade: Third round
Florida State’s Asante Samuel Jr. is another prospect in this draft class who has great bloodlines as his dad Asante Samuel Sr. played 11 years in the NFL. Samuel has been a productive starter in the Seminoles lineup being named an All-ACC pick in 2019 and 2020. Over these two years, Samuel has broken up 20 passes and picked off six balls.
The top trait Samuel possesses is his football IQ. He shows good awareness in coverage and also plays with sound technique. His ball skills are another thing he has working in his favor. He shows good drive when it comes to breaking up the pass and also has the athletic ability to make the tough interception. One other plus with Samuel is his competitive attitude as he is not afraid to challenge receivers or come up to stop the run.
The reason Samuel has a third-round draft grade comes down to his size, and how he will likely be limited to a nickel corner due to his lack of height and bulk. He has had issues with bigger receivers during his time at Florida State and was downright bullied by Notre Dame’s bigger receivers. Samuel is not the greatest tackler in the 2021 NFL Draft and needs to do a better job of wrapping up when tackling.