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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.