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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

R.J. Stanford (Utah) - 2010 NFL Draft Pick #223 by CAR

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for R.J. Stanford

College: Utah

Position: Cornerback

Height/Weight: 5'11", 190 lbs

Overview

R.J. Stanford was a solid cornerback prospect coming out of the University of Utah, known for his physicality, ball skills, and ability to contribute in both man and zone coverage schemes. His performance in college, particularly in his senior year, showcased his potential to transition to the NFL.

Strengths

  • Physicality: Stanford plays with a tough, aggressive style, often engaging receivers at the line of scrimmage.
  • Ball Skills: He demonstrated good hand-eye coordination, allowing him to make plays on the ball and create turnovers.
  • Versatility: Capable of playing both outside corner and in the slot, providing valuable depth to a secondary.
  • Work Ethic: Known for his dedication and commitment to improving his game, which could translate well to the professional level.

Weaknesses

  • Speed: While agile, some scouts were concerned about his straight-line speed when matched up against faster receivers.
  • Size: At 5'11", he may struggle against taller, more physical wideouts in the NFL.
  • Consistency: Needs to improve his consistency in coverage and tackling technique.

Projection

Stanford was projected to be a mid to late-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. His physical play and experience in a competitive conference made him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their secondary depth. Coaches valued his work ethic and potential for development over time.

Conclusion

R.J. Stanford's combination of skills and attributes made him a player to watch in the draft process. While he had areas to improve, many believed that with the right coaching and situation, he could become a reliable contributor in the NFL.