Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee St.) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #16 by ARI
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
College: Tennessee State
Position: Cornerback
Height/Weight: 6'2", 184 lbs
Overview
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie emerged as one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2008 NFL Draft after a standout career at Tennessee State. Known for his exceptional athleticism and ball skills, he was projected to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
Strengths
- Speed and Agility: Rodgers-Cromartie showcased elite speed, allowing him to keep up with fast receivers and close gaps quickly.
- Ball Skills: He had a knack for intercepting passes, demonstrating excellent hands and timing.
- Size and Length: At 6'2", he possessed the height and wingspan to compete against taller wide receivers.
- Coverage Skills: He was adept at both man and zone coverage, showing the ability to shadow receivers and read quarterbacks.
Weaknesses
- Physicality: While he had the speed, there were concerns about his ability to handle more physical receivers in the NFL.
- Experience: Coming from a smaller program, he faced questions about the level of competition he faced during his college career.
- Weight: At 184 lbs, some scouts worried about his ability to tackle and play against stronger opponents.
Overall Projection
Rodgers-Cromartie was projected to be a first to second-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability made him a desirable prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary. With proper coaching and development, he was expected to become a starting cornerback and potential star in the league.