Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Mike Mickens (Cincinnati) - 2009 NFL Draft Pick #227 by DAL

---

Mike Mickens - Pre-Draft Analysis (2009 NFL Draft)

College: University of Cincinnati
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 190 lbs

Overview

Mike Mickens was a standout cornerback at the University of Cincinnati, known for his ball skills and playmaking ability. He was considered one of the top defensive backs entering the 2009 NFL Draft, showcasing a combination of size, speed, and instinct on the field.

Strengths

• Ball Skills: Mickens demonstrated excellent hands and the ability to make plays on the ball, with numerous interceptions during his college career.
• Coverage Ability: He was adept in both man and zone coverage, displaying good technique and footwork that allowed him to stay with receivers.
• Football IQ: Mickens had a strong understanding of offensive schemes, enabling him to anticipate plays and react quickly.
• Physicality: He was not afraid to support the run and was willing to tackle, showing a physical edge that is essential for a cornerback.

Weaknesses

• Injury History: Mickens had some injury concerns during his college career that raised questions about his durability at the next level.
• Top Speed: While he had good speed, there were questions on whether he could keep up with the fastest NFL receivers consistently.
• Experience: Limited experience against top-tier competition, as Cincinnati did not face many elite offenses during his time.

Projected Draft Position

Mike Mickens was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2009 NFL Draft. His combination of talent and potential made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary.

Conclusion

Mike Mickens was viewed as a promising cornerback with the potential to develop into a solid starter in the NFL. Teams were attracted to his playmaking ability and instincts, but concerns about his injury history and speed could affect his draft stock.