Antonio Cromartie (Florida St.) - 2006 NFL Draft Pick #19 by SDG
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Antonio Cromartie (2006 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
- Name: Antonio Cromartie
- College: Florida State University
- Position: Cornerback
- Height: 6'2"
- Weight: 210 lbs
Strengths:
- Physical Attributes: Cromartie possesses an impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism. His long arms and height make him a difficult matchup for receivers.
- Ball Skills: Known for his exceptional ability to track the ball in the air, Cromartie has a knack for making plays on the football.
- Versatility: Can be used in various defensive schemes, showcasing the ability to play both man and zone coverage effectively.
- Return Ability: Cromartie also has experience as a return specialist, adding value to his overall skill set.
Weaknesses:
- Injury History: Cromartie's career at Florida State was marred by injuries, including a serious knee injury that sidelined him for a significant portion of his final season.
- Consistency: While he flashed playmaking ability, there were times when he struggled with consistency in his technique and coverage assignments.
- Experience: Limited collegiate experience due to injuries, which raised questions about his readiness for the NFL.
Overall Assessment:
Antonio Cromartie was regarded as one of the most talented cornerbacks in the 2006 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability made him a highly sought-after prospect. However, concerns about his injury history and consistency led to some debate about when he would be selected. Teams looking for a potential star cornerback with game-changing ability considered him a high-risk, high-reward option.
As the draft approached, Cromartie was projected to be a first-round talent, with many analysts believing that his physical gifts would outweigh the risks associated with his injuries.