Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Nate Hobbs (Illinois) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #167 by LV

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Nate Hobbs - Pre-Draft Analysis for the 2021 NFL Draft

Position: Cornerback
College: Illinois
Height: 6'0" (183 cm)
Weight: 205 lbs (93 kg)

Overview

Nate Hobbs was a standout cornerback at the University of Illinois, showcasing his skills in both man and zone coverage throughout his college career. Known for his physicality and competitiveness, Hobbs emerged as a reliable defensive back, drawing attention from NFL scouts.

Strengths

• Physicality: Hobbs is not afraid to engage with receivers, displaying strong tackling ability and a willingness to support in run defense.
• Versatility: He has experience playing both inside as a slot corner and outside, making him a flexible option for defensive schemes.
• Ball Skills: Hobbs has shown good instincts in coverage, with the ability to track the ball and make plays on it, evidenced by his pass breakups.
• Quickness: His quick footwork allows him to stay in phase with receivers, particularly on short routes, which is crucial for a cornerback.

Weaknesses

• Consistency: At times, Hobbs has struggled with consistency in his technique, leading to occasional lapses in coverage.
• Size: While he has good height, some scouts believe he may lack the elite length desired for outside corners in the NFL.
• Injury History: Hobbs has dealt with injuries during his college career, which may raise concerns about his durability at the next level.

Draft Projection

Many analysts viewed Nate Hobbs as a mid-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. His combination of skills and experience made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their secondary. His versatility and physical style of play were expected to translate well to the professional level, making him a potential contributor as a rookie.

Conclusion

Nate Hobbs entered the 2021 NFL Draft with a solid college resume and the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His competitive nature and ability to play multiple roles in the secondary made him a worthwhile investment for teams seeking depth and talent in their defensive backfield.