Cornerbacks

Sporting News, The, Feb 18, 2002 by Dan Pompei

Cornerbacks always are a hot commodity. Because of the addition of some key juniors to the draft pool, about 15 could be chosen by the end of the third round.

1. Phillip Buchanon, Miami, 5-11, 185. This junior is a lockdown corner with excellent speed and quickness. He is very athletic and explosive in his movements. Isn't real thick but plays physically and is powerful. Has good hands. Gambles at times and usually can get away with it. Excellent return man.

2. Quentin Jammer, Texas, 5-11, 197. The complete package. Can stay with speed receivers and big receivers. Physical player who can really jam a receiver. Good in run support. Has trouble finding the ball at times.

3. Mike Rumph, Miami, 6-1, 195. Tall corner who specializes in bump-and-run coverage. Better in man-to-man than zone. Can run. Competitive player. his game to another level last season. Has some lapses.

4. Keyuo Craver, Nebraska, 5-10, 190. Fast, instinctive corner with top-notch athleticism. Has good man-to-man cover skills. Isn't as tall as you would like. Inconsistent player who has lapses in concentration.

5. Lito Sheppard, Florida, 5-10, 195. A ballhawk with good feet and hips, this junior has good coverage skills. Is well-built. Catch-up speed is a question. Will bite on double moves.

6. Andre Goodman, South Carolina, 5-10, 183. Fast, explosive, aggressive player. Reacts quickly and changes direction well. Has long arms. Consistent tackler.

7. Derek Ross, Ohio State, 6-1, 195. Is one of the most talented corners available this year. Has size and speed. Good tackler. Undisciplined player who guesses and doesn't always stick with coverage. Has off-field baggage. Junior should have stayed in school another year.

8. Lenny Walls, Boston College, 6-3, 195. Big corner who would fit best in a zone scheme. Has speed but isn't real quick. Isn't very physical for his size and could add some weight. Some consider him a safety.

9. Roosevelt Williams, Tuskegee, 5-11, 199. Aggressive small-school player. Is more athletic than fast. Is a little tight in his movements but can backpedal, turn and run with a receiver. Has good size.

10. Sheldon Brown, South Carolina, 5-9, 193. Consistent player with speed, body control and ball skills. Mirrors receivers well. Plays with awareness. Isn't a big hitter. Lacks ideal height.