Marlon Humphrey (Alabama) - 2017 NFL Draft Pick #16 by BAL
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Marlon Humphrey - Pre-Draft Analysis (2017 NFL Draft)
Position: Cornerback
College: Alabama
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 197 lbs
Overview:
Marlon Humphrey entered the 2017 NFL Draft as one of the top cornerback prospects, showcasing exceptional athleticism and a solid understanding of defensive schemes during his time at the University of Alabama. He was known for his physical playstyle, which made him a standout in the SEC.
Strengths:
- Size and Length: At 6'0" and possessing long arms, Humphrey has the physical attributes that NFL teams covet in a cornerback.
- Speed: He demonstrated impressive straight-line speed and quickness, which allowed him to keep up with fast receivers.
- Press Coverage Skills: Humphrey excelled in press coverage thanks to his physicality and technique, making him a formidable opponent at the line of scrimmage.
- Ball Skills: His ability to track the ball and make plays in the air was evident; he had several pass deflections and interceptions during his college career.
- Run Support: Humphrey was also effective in run support, displaying a willingness to come up and tackle ball carriers.
Areas for Improvement:
- Consistency: At times, Humphrey struggled with his consistency in coverage, particularly against more polished route runners.
- Techniques in Off Coverage: While effective in press, he needed to refine his techniques when playing off the line of scrimmage.
- Injury Concerns: There were some concerns about past injuries that could affect his durability at the next level.
Overall Assessment:
Marlon Humphrey was highly regarded for his combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability. Many analysts considered him a potential first-round pick, with the ability to contribute immediately as a starter in the NFL. His time at Alabama under Nick Saban's coaching helped him develop a strong football IQ, making him a desirable asset for any defense looking to bolster their secondary. Teams looking for a cornerback with a high ceiling and the ability to match up against top receivers would certainly have him on their radar.