Patrick Surtain II (Alabama) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #9 by DEN
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Patrick Surtain II - 2021 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
- Name: Patrick Surtain II
- Position: Cornerback
- College: Alabama
- Height: 6'2"
- Weight: 208 lbs
Overview:
Patrick Surtain II is widely regarded as one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft. With his impressive skill set and experience at a prestigious program like Alabama, Surtain has established himself as a premier defensive back. His combination of size, athleticism, and technique makes him a highly coveted talent among NFL teams.
Strengths:
- Size and Length: Surtain has ideal size for a cornerback, allowing him to match up well against larger wide receivers.
- Coverage Skills: He excels in both man and zone coverage, demonstrating a keen understanding of route concepts and receiver tendencies.
- Ball Skills: Surtain has shown the ability to locate the ball in the air and make plays, leading to numerous pass breakups and interceptions during his college career.
- Football IQ: His understanding of the game and ability to read quarterbacks is elite, contributing to his overall effectiveness on the field.
- Physicality: Surtain is not afraid to come up and support against the run, showcasing solid tackling ability and toughness.
Weaknesses:
- Top-End Speed: While he is fast, there are questions about his straight-line speed against elite NFL receivers.
- Overaggressiveness: At times, he can be too aggressive in his approach, leading to missed tackles or being caught out of position.
Conclusion:
Patrick Surtain II is a well-rounded cornerback with the potential to become a lockdown defender at the next level. His experience in the SEC, combined with his physical attributes and mental acumen, make him a strong candidate for a top-10 selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. Teams looking to bolster their secondary would be wise to consider Surtain as a cornerstone piece for their defense.