Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Justin Layne (Michigan St.) - 2019 NFL Draft Pick #83 by PIT

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Justin Layne (Michigan State) - 2019 NFL Draft

Position: Cornerback
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 192 lbs

Overview

Justin Layne was a standout cornerback at Michigan State, known for his size, length, and ability to compete in one-on-one situations. He was considered one of the top cornerbacks entering the 2019 NFL Draft, showcasing both physicality and athleticism.

Strengths

• Size and Length: Layne's 6'2" frame and long arms give him an advantage in coverage, allowing him to contest passes effectively.
• Physicality: He is not afraid to play up on the line of scrimmage and can jam receivers at the line effectively.
• Ball Skills: Layne showed the ability to track the ball and make plays in the air, evidenced by his interceptions and pass breakups during his college career.
• Versatility: He has experience playing both outside and in the slot, which adds value to his draft stock.

Weaknesses

• Awareness: At times, Layne struggled with his awareness in zone coverage, leading to missed assignments.
• Footwork: His footwork can be inconsistent, particularly when backpedaling or transitioning into breaks.
• Speed: While he has good speed, there are concerns about his ability to keep up with faster receivers, especially in deep routes.

Overall Projection

Justin Layne was projected to be selected in the second to third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Teams were intrigued by his physical traits and potential as a starting cornerback but were also cautious of his technical inconsistencies. With proper coaching and development, he had the potential to become a valuable asset in the secondary for an NFL team.

Conclusion

Layne was a talented cornerback with the tools necessary to succeed at the next level. His performance at the NFL Combine and individual workouts would further solidify his draft position as teams evaluated his readiness to transition to professional play.