Darius Phillips (Western Michigan) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #170 by CIN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Darius Phillips - 2018 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Darius Phillips
- College: Western Michigan
- Position: Cornerback
- Height: 5'10"
- Weight: 191 lbs
Strengths:
- Excellent ball skills with a knack for making interceptions.
- Fluid hips and good change of direction, allowing him to stay with receivers.
- Strong awareness and instincts on the field, often reading plays before they develop.
- Versatile player with experience in both cornerback and return specialist roles.
- Good speed and agility, making him a threat in both coverage and return situations.
Weaknesses:
- Size and physicality may be a concern against bigger receivers in the NFL.
- Can struggle with tackling consistency, particularly in open field situations.
- Needs to improve press coverage techniques to compete at the next level.
Draft Projection:
Darius Phillips was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2018 NFL Draft, primarily due to his playmaking ability and versatility. His experience as a return specialist added to his value, making him a potential asset for teams looking to bolster their special teams units.
Overall Summary:
Darius Phillips showcased significant potential during his time at Western Michigan, demonstrating both athleticism and skill as a cornerback. While he faced challenges due to his size, his ability to make plays on the ball and contribute on special teams made him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams heading into the draft.