We are less than two months from the NFL Draft. You have seen my first mock draft and some names Ravens fans should start to get familiar with as we get close to an actual pick. Let’s look at my favorite sleepers in the NFL Draft by position.
These players will mostly be third-day picks or even undrafted free agents. We started with offensive skill position players, offensive linemen and the front seven. Let’s look at the defensive backs now.
Cornerbacks:
• Tyson Campbell, Georgia: I liked what I saw from Campbell. Quick feet, solid in coverage, but he does not always find the ball. Athletic but lacks some instinct. He’s had durability issues in the past, although he was 100 percent all year in 2020. Day Three prospect with upside.
• Robert Rochell, Central Arkansas: Productive player with 38 career pass breakups and 10 career interceptions. Like how he uses the jam on the line of scrimmage, but he gets too handsy at times.
• Bryan Mills, North Carolina Central: Was a JUCO transfer. Love his coverage skills but must add some strength; he weighed in at 180 pounds at the Senior Bowl. Sees the ball well and mirrors his opponent well. Very aggressive player on the outside, but he seems to struggles when asked to cover the slot. Teams will love his competitiveness, and he could/should develop into a solid CB2.
Safeties:
• Qwynnterrio Cole, Alcorn State: The only knock on Q is his speed. Not that he is slow by any means, but he is not a burner. A two-time HBCU All-American and first-team All-SWAC honoree in 2019, Cole always seems to be in the right spot. Hard hitter and reliable tackler.
• Reed Blankenship, Middle Tennessee State: Terrific zone safety and “center fielder.” He tracks balls well; solid blitzer as well. Played just seven games in 2019 due to a broken leg but seems fully recovered. Has starter potential.
• Darren Hall, San Diego State: Ball-hawk alert! San Diego State plays a hybrid 3-3-5 defense, and Hall played corner and safety in its formation. Can cover, hit and run.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of UCA Athletics
