I had one opportunity to watch Louisville in 2010, during their bowl game against Southern Miss. One player stood out for both teams, quarterback Austin Davis for the Golden Eagles and cornerback Johnny Patrick for the Cardinals. Let’s look at the tape, courtesy of Aaron Aloysius:
Patrick had five interceptions as a senior, one touchdown and a sack. He’s obviously not a great size/speed combo or the kind of player you are going to consider early on. He ran a 4.52 and a 4.46 at the combine and he’s listed at 5-11 and 188lbs, which isn’t anything special. However, it’s the ball skills that make him stand out. He’s always around the ball, appears to take good angles and the instincts are there. The five interceptions back that perception up and teams will always be interested in guys who can play the ball.
There are some concerns. It’s believed work rate hasn’t been considered a strong point until his senior year when the light appeared to switch on. Other reports suggest that mistakes get to his head and lead to further errors. Looking at the tape his sprinting speed and change of direction don’t always match and there is some stiffness in the hips.
When he’s at his best, he looks like a second round pick. Other aspects could make him a candidate for Seattle in rounds four or five.
I’d think that we would either target a #1 cornerback high in the draft to replace Trufant or pass on the position altogether. We already have a #2 cornerback in Walter Thurmond, and most of our depth is solid.
I definitely agree. Although I do see them taking a project high upside CB in the later rounds. Thinking HWS type guy.