NFL Draft: Breaking Down the Top Cornerback Prospects

Florida Gators defensive back Loucheiz Purifoy (15). Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

TIER FOUR

18. Louchiez Purifoy, Florida: 5-11, 190 (4.61)

Purifoy was once considered an early-round prospect, but injury concerns and a disappointing 40 time have significantly hurt his draft stock.

Purifoy is an aggressive corner that will show flashes of playmaking ability at times on film; however, Purifoy is far too inconsistent and lacks the top-end speed and athleticism to be considered an early-round prospect.

Purifoy’s teammates, Roberson and Watkins, seem better suited at the position in the NFL. Purifoy still may make a name for himself as a nickel or dime corner or special teams contributor though.

(Draft Projection: Rounds 4-5)

Purdue Boilermakers cornerback Ricardo Allen (21). Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports

19. Ricardo Allen, Purdue: 5-9, 187 (4.61)

Allen had a productive career at Purdue, recording 13 interceptions and 11 pass breakups as a four-year starter. However, Allen lacks ideal size, speed, and athleticism at the position, and many wonder how well his game will translate to the NFL.

Allen demonstrates a natural nose for the ball and knows how to read and react to routes. He’s a savvy player who shows short-area quickness and will make plays in the defensive backfield.

But Allen’s lack of size and speed severely hinder him in sticking with receivers downfield or contesting jump balls.

(Draft Projection: Round 5)

Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Aaron Colvin (14). Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

20. Aaron Colvin, Oklahoma: 5-11, 177 (4.50)

Colvin was easily considered a top-10 cornerback in this year’s draft before tearing his ACL during the Senior Bowl this offseason. This was a devastating injury to player who projected as an early-round pick.

Colvin is a physical corner with natural quickness and burst, which helps him break on the ball and make plays in the secondary. Colvin has one of the more complete games at the position, but whichever team drafts him will need to be patient and allow Colvin to recover from the injury and get back to playing shape.

Whoever drafts Colvin will be looking for a long-term investment over immediate impact. With some time to get healthy and bulk up, Colvin could develop into a starting-caliber cornerback in the NFL.

(Draft Projection: Round 5)

Other Late-Round Prospects:

21. Walt Aikens, Liberty: 6-1, 205

(Draft Projection: Round 5)

22. Bennett Jackson, Notre Dame: 6-0, 195 (4.51)

(Draft Projection: Rounds 5-6)

23. Terrence Mitchell, Oregon: 5-11, 198 (4.63)

(Draft Projection: Rounds 5-6)

24. Chris Davis, Auburn: 5-10, 202

(Draft Projection: Rounds 6-7)

25. Antone Exum, Virginia Tech: 6-0, 213 (4.59)

(Draft Projection: Rounds 6-7)