Some possible CBs gems

By Raul Colon

Compare to the last three years, 2010 is shaping up to be a banner year for cornerbacks. Up to twenty five corners should their name called in this April’s NFL Draft. Unlike 2009, this is a more balance class as there is only one player (Florida’s Joe Haden) who consistently grades as first round material.

But what this class lacks in top tier talent, it certainty made it up with depth. Nearly half of the 25 projected CB drafted will come in the later stages of the process.

Look for the fifth round to be a particular fertile with around seven possible going there. With this in mind, here’s a look at this year’s CB class possible late round (5th to 7th) gems.

1. Joshua Morgan, Kansas State (5’11”, 188 lb, 4.44 40-yard time): This is one of the better prospects around. A solid cover guy with top end speed, Morgan will be a hot commodity come Day 2. What sets him apart of the field is his ability to support the run with explosiveness. If he can fuel that burst into pass defense, he can become a shut down corner in the NFL.
Projection: 5th round

2. Brian Jackson, Oklahoma (6’1”, 200, 4.55): A big, physical corner who will most likely be converted into a safety. It could be a big mistake, because despite his size and lack of speed, Jackson is an instinct CB. He has the agility to play and excel in a Cover 2-type of scheme. Much has been said about his poor workout numbers. Throw that aside, he is a much better football player than an athlete and in the next level, teams will figure it out soon. Possible sleeper.
Projection: 5th round

3. Walter Thurmond, Oregon (6’0”, 187, 4.54): If he was healthy, Thurmond would have been ranked higher than this. He is a good, quick corner who can succeed in either man-to-man or zone coverage. Despite a serious knee injury, the former Duck star still retains much of his lateral speed and closing burst. Two traits any CB will trade for. The team that takes a gamble on him could prosper tremendously down the stretch.
Projection: 6th round

4. Stephen Virgil, Virginia Tech (5’11”, 189, 4.48): Virgil’s lacks of closing burst, despite having great timed speed, is his biggest drawback, aside his recent knee surgery. If he is fully recover, and for all intend and purpose he looks to be well on his way, he should rise up this level. Big and with the frame to add more bulk, Virgil could become a legitimate playmaker on Sundays very soon. His pure speed, lateral movement and physical style are tailor made for an aggressive Cover 2 system.
Projection: 7th round

5. Jamar Wall, Texas Tech (5’10”, 201, 4.50): A true sleeper who have the chance to become a solid starter in the NFL for years. Have great cover skills, lateral agility and closing speed. His instincts are above average as well. The biggest drawback on him is perceived uninspired run support. He also does not read fast enough some plays in front of him. But these deficiencies should be corrected with better coaching and more dedication. Overall, he is one of the best prospects in this class and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he emerges as a top tire cornerback in the NFL.
Projection: 7th round