The cornerback position has many challenges and in a pass heavy league, it can all hinge on athleticism and a sixth sense to stop a play.
The tangibles that veteran Tracy Porter possesses are key when protecting the backfield; keen football insight and football knowledge. Pro Football Focus gave Porter a minus-4.4 grade, with four penalty counts against him, two illegal contacts, an illegal use of hands and pass interference. He does have the opportunity to prove them wrong by staying healthy enough to play in all 16 games and lead the young defensive backs with enough experience to defend the end zone. The both of them together may be the
He does have the opportunity to prove them wrong by staying healthy enough to play in all 16 games and lead the young defensive backs with enough experience to defend the end zone. The both of them together may be the Ying and Yang of the backfield.
However, there are two cornerbacks that may give Porter and Kyle Fuller some competition – Bryce Callahan and Deiondre’ Hall. Callahan is great against press coverage, a real sticky guy, especially in the end zone. He has a great football IQ and fits well in the nickel package. Though Callahan is only 5’10” and has a vertical jump of 43.5 inches which means his athleticism will make up for the shortfall.
As for Hall, he has emulated his style of play with that of former Bear Charles Tillman and strives to be a ballhawk in getting the ball out. The fourth round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Hall is a perfect 6-foot-2 with 34 3/8″ arms that were made for tackling and batting down balls. His pass coverage ability and ball production are remarkable and if he is anything like Tillman the Bears are in for a treat.
For now Fuller and Porter are the guys, but if any of them falter, don’t be surprised if “Peanut 2.0” Hall gets his chance to step into the shoes of his mentor and bring back the “Peanut Punch”.