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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Mekhi Blackmon (USC) - 2023 NFL Draft Pick #102 by MIN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Mekhi Blackmon - Pre-Draft Analysis (2023 NFL Draft)

Position: Cornerback

College: University of Southern California (USC)

Overview

Mekhi Blackmon is a highly regarded cornerback who played a pivotal role in the USC defense. Known for his speed, agility, and ball skills, Blackmon has emerged as one of the top defensive prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Strengths

  • Speed and Agility: Blackmon possesses exceptional speed, allowing him to keep up with fast receivers and make plays on the ball.
  • Ball Skills: He demonstrated excellent ball-hawking ability, recording several interceptions and pass breakups during his college career.
  • Physicality: Blackmon is a physical corner who isn’t afraid to tackle, showcasing his ability to support the run defense.
  • Experience: With multiple seasons of starting experience at USC, he has faced top-tier competition, which has prepared him for the next level.

Weaknesses

  • Size: At 6'0" and 180 pounds, there are concerns about his size and how he matches up against larger NFL receivers.
  • Consistency: While he has shown flashes of brilliance, there were moments of inconsistency in his play, particularly in coverage techniques.
  • Injury History: Past injuries could raise red flags for teams looking for durability in their defensive backs.

Overall Projection

Mekhi Blackmon is projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2023 NFL Draft. His upside as a cornerback makes him an intriguing option for teams in need of defensive back depth. With proper coaching and development, he has the potential to become a reliable starter in the NFL.

Comparison

Blackmon's style of play has drawn comparisons to various successful cornerbacks in the league, emphasizing his blend of speed and ball skills that can translate well to the professional level.