4 hours ago
(10 hours ago)Canthony Wrote: Dorian Strong is a dynamic cover corner who in 2023 became just the second FBS cornerback since 2014 with 300-plus coverage snaps giving up less than 10 receptions and less than 100 yards receiving in a single season. Nuanced as a perimeter or slot corner, Strong has excellent size and length to play inside-out, or wherever the coverage or opposing personnel takes him.
In man, Strong has excellent footwork and a highly intriguing athletic profile to mirror and match players across the field. Has instances where he has run the route for his opposition, showcasing an understanding of tendencies on certain down and distances, as well as the nuances in the body positioning of a wideout which he can quickly identify.
Strong has shown the ability to align neutral (shoulders square) at the line of scrimmage and flip and run, while also displaying the ability to align in a side saddle and force things in front. Excellent acceleration and burst to counter pass-catchers who look to press vertical where he forces QBs to make perfect throws into tight windows. Has also shown the ability to run step for step on crossing routes across the formation, a rare skill at the collegiate level. Instincts are apparent as well and Strong has proven he is comfortable in coverage with his back to the pocket. Length is evident in press-man situations but he can get grabby against twitchier wideouts that can win across his face (Miami). Overall as a man corner, Strong is nuanced in space and has showcased success against a wide variety of routes and body types.
In zone, Strong’s instincts and speed are outstanding to study. He’s a nightmare to target to his side due to his ability to close distance in a hurry. Highly communicative athlete on the backend that can slide, shuffle, and maneuver his way around a secondary with ease. Does well to read the QB’s eyes but does not sacrifice his coverage integrity often to jump a throw. Has reps in zone-match where he can quickly change direction and pursue the pass with ease.
As a run defender, Strong approaches the line of scrimmage with urgency. Effort is also there as a perimeter defender—he chased down Marshall’s running back 70 yards downfield to save a touchdown.
Overall, Strong has consistently showcased the ability to shut down opposing wideouts in man situations and is a player who touts many of the tools teams eye in a potential starter within a secondary.
Dorian Strong, a cornerback from Virginia Tech, has emerged as an intriguing prospect in the NFL Draft. Born and raised in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, Strong made his mark at Dr. Henry Wise High School as a versatile player, excelling as both a wide receiver and cornerback. His senior year saw him rack up 425 receiving yards with eight touchdowns, while also contributing 33 tackles on defense.
Strong's college career at Virginia Tech was marked by consistent improvement and significant achievements. As a true freshman in 2020, he played in all 11 games, starting five, and recorded 22 tackles, an interception, and five pass breakups. His sophomore year saw him start 10 games, amassing 23 tackles and six pass breakups. Despite an injury-shortened junior season, Strong bounced back impressively in his senior year.
In 2023, Strong started all 13 games, cementing his status as a lockdown corner. He tallied 25 tackles, eight pass breakups, and three interceptions. His outstanding performance earned him Second Team All-American honors from Action Network and a spot on the All-ACC Third Team, highlighting his impact in the competitive ACC conference.
Exceptional coverage skills, particularly excelling in press-man situations where he utilizes quick, heavy hands to establish leverage off the ball
Fluid hip flexibility and smooth transitions, executing man turns with no wasted motion while staying in phase with receivers
Strong ball judgment and reactions, consistently making plays at the catch point and forcing incompletions on contested catches
Impressive ball production throughout his college career, demonstrating reliable hands and playmaking ability in the secondary
Proficient play speed allows him to effectively trail receivers on short and intermediate routes across the field
Quality change of direction skills help maintain leverage and cushion at the top of routes in man coverage
Displays heady awareness and instincts when dropping into zone coverage, effectively eliminating throwing windows
Competitive length allows him to play larger than his frame, compensating for average height and weight measurements
43. Azareye'h Thomas CB | Florida State
75. T.J. Sanders DL | South Carolin
97. Denzel Burke CB | Ohio State
99. Neal RB | Kansas
138. Luke Kandra IOL | Cincinnati
140. Kyren Lacy WR | LSU
161. Riley Leonard QB | Notre Dame
43. Azareye'h Thomas CB | Florida State
75. T.J. Sanders DL | South Carolin
97. Denzel Burke CB | Ohio State
99. Neal RB | Kansas
138. Luke Kandra IOL | Cincinnati
140. Kyren Lacy WR | LSU
161. Riley Leonard QB | Notre Dame
I like it, a lot of potential here for keepers and probs immediate help at IDL, Corner which we need. Like the Leonard pick late too. Another piece of clay for KOC.
