Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Derrius Monroe (Virginia Tech) - 2002 NFL Draft Pick #224 by NO

---

Pre-Draft Analysis for Derrius Monroe - 2002 NFL Draft

Player Profile:

• Name: Derrius Monroe
• Position: Defensive Back
• College: Virginia Tech
• Height: 6'0"
• Weight: 200 lbs

Scouting Report:

• Speed and Athleticism: Monroe showcased impressive speed and agility during his time at Virginia Tech, making him a versatile defensive back capable of covering both wide receivers and tight ends effectively.
• Coverage Skills: He demonstrated solid man-to-man and zone coverage abilities, often shutting down his assignments and displaying good ball skills to intercept passes.
• Tackling: Monroe is known for his strong tackling ability, often stepping up to support against the run while also being a reliable open-field tackler.
• Football Intelligence: His understanding of offensive schemes and ability to read quarterbacks contributed to his effectiveness on the field, allowing him to anticipate plays and react quickly.

Strengths:

• Versatile player with the ability to play multiple positions in the secondary.
• Good size and physicality for a defensive back.
• Proven track record of playmaking ability, including interceptions and forced fumbles.

Areas for Improvement:

• Needs to refine some technical aspects of his game, especially in footwork and backpedaling.
• Could improve his consistency in deep coverage situations against faster receivers.

Draft Projection:

• Monroe was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 2002 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and preferences for defensive backs.

Conclusion:

Derrius Monroe was considered a promising prospect for the 2002 NFL Draft. His combination of athleticism, coverage skills, and physicality made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary.