NFL Draft: Top five Cornerback prospects for the Detroit Lions

Quinten Rollins, CB, Miami (Ohio)

Sep 13, 2014; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver

(86) is tackled by Miami (Oh) Redhawks defensive back Quinten Rollins (2) at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Rollins was a four year starter for Miami (Ohio) basketball, and with a semester of eligibility left, wanted to give football a shot.  The result was a 2014 MAC Defensive Player of the Year, first team All-MAC and a trip to the 2015 Senior Bowl.

He recorded 72 tackles, one forced fumble, nine pass deflections, seven interceptions and returning one interception for a touchdown.

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For a first year player, he shows the potential to be a NFL starter in the future.  He can cover receivers well. wraps up well and is able to make the open field tackle.  Rollins strength helps his make these tackles, and his quickness from basketball has carried over well, especially when anticipating a throw.

Playing for only one season of football though does have its drawbacks.  Rollins lacks the good technique that a corner needs in the NFL, often being susceptible to double moves and can get careless on underneath coverage.

Rollins’ physical frame should translate to the NFL well, and can be a successful corner in this league.  With this. the Lions should look to pick him up if they don’t go cornerback in the first round.

Although he isn’t an instant starter like Williams, he can be a success in this Lions defense with some coaching.  Plus, he wouldn’t be the first Detroit Lion (Ziggy Ansah the other) to not have a lot experience entering the draft, but has the potential to be a good starter in this league.

If it’s the third round and Rollins is still available, there’s no reason the Lions shouldn’t draft him.

Next: Alex Carter