Jalen Mills (LSU) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #233 by PHI
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Jalen Mills (2016 NFL Draft)
College: Louisiana State University (LSU)
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 191 lbs
Overview:
Jalen Mills was a standout cornerback at LSU, known for his versatility and competitive nature. He played in the highly competitive SEC, which prepared him well for the next level. Mills had a solid college career, showcasing a mix of man and zone coverage skills, along with a physical playing style.
Strengths:
- Versatility: Mills has experience playing both cornerback and safety, making him a valuable asset for defensive schemes.
- Physicality: He is known for his strong tackling ability and willingness to support against the run.
- Ball Skills: Mills demonstrated good ball skills during his college career, recording multiple interceptions and pass breakups.
- Competitive Spirit: He plays with a high level of intensity and competitiveness, often challenging receivers aggressively.
- Football Intelligence: Mills has a good understanding of the game, which helps him read plays and anticipate routes.
Weaknesses:
- Speed Concerns: Some scouts questioned his straight-line speed, which could be a concern against faster NFL receivers.
- Injury History: Mills dealt with injuries during his college career, which could raise red flags for prospective teams.
- Consistency: At times, he struggled with consistency in coverage, leading to occasional big plays against him.
Projection:
Jalen Mills was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, with teams valuing his versatility and experience in a top-tier college program. His ability to contribute on special teams and as a backup cornerback could make him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their secondary depth.
Conclusion:
Jalen Mills was seen as a solid prospect with the potential to develop into a reliable contributor at the NFL level. His physical style of play and football intelligence were highlights of his game, while concerns about speed and injury history might have impacted his draft stock.