Player: Dre Kirkpatrick
Position: Cornerback
School: Alabama
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 186 pounds
Positives: Tall and lanky, runs smooth with fluid hip movement, extremely physical and doesn’t shy away from contact, very effective in run support, big hitter, wraps up well when tackling, plays with a passion, great athleticism, agility, and acceleration, has the speed to hang with any receiver, understands position and has high football I.Q.
Negatives: Character concerns, recently arrested on marijuana charges, takes a lot of chances going for interceptions, needs to improve on football and focus on becoming true technician.
Draft Grade: Top 20
Overview: Chargers’ GM A.J. Smith once said in regards to the draft “you can’t fall in love with a 6’3” corner (Antonio Cromartie) who can’t play consistently.” However, in this case, I believe you have a tall corner that can play consistently. Kirkpatrick is lanky and extremely aggressive in his play. It is that confidence and forceful mindset that helps him shut down receivers on his side of the defense. We don’t have another Darrelle Revis, but Kirkpatrick should become a household name in his NFL career.
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