Darqueze Dennard is another name that might not be very high on people's draft boards but could very well be a steal in the upcoming draft. Dennard has average size for a corner but is a very physical one. In college, his coaches had confidence in his ability so much that they essentially put him on his own island and matched him up with the opposing teams best receiver and more times than none Dennard came away with the one on one victory. The tape will show that. The tape will also show that he isn't afraid to set the edge on the corner, come up and make the tackle. He can jam the receiver at the line which disrupts the rout and he has good footwork, and has fluid hips which allows him to flip and run with the receiver while also staying low. He has the ability to play both man coverage or zone coverage, however he isn't significantly better at one or the other. When at the next level, he'll be able to jam the receiver but could lose the battle after that since be doesn't have the elite speed to stay with the best of the best. He has great recognition of what routes receivers are running in terms of situational football. He also does a great job of locating the football and making a play on the ball. Dennard is also very physical and isn't afraid to use his hand which in college he could get away with, at the next level he won't be as lucky when dealing with bigger and more physical receivers. He will also need to work on his hands while fighting down field. Overall, the All Big Ten, All America, and Thorpe Award winner can be a top-tier corner if he can polish up some of his techniques. Look for Dennard to be off the board mid to late first round.
Prediction: 22nd overall to the Eagles
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