NFL Draft: Top five Cornerback prospects for the Detroit Lions

Alex Carter, CB, Stanford

Nov 28, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal cornerback Alex Carter (25) warms up before the game against the UCLA Bruins at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Carter was an All-Defensive honorable mention three years in a row (2012-2014), recording 146 total tackles, five tackles for loss, 18 pass deflections, two interceptions and five forced fumbles in that span.

His size is good for a corner, standing at 6 feet and weighing in at 196 pounds.  Carter uses his size well, not afraid to go in and stop the run and can make an open field tackle.

He’s also a one-dimensional coverage corner, as he’s highly successful in zone coverage and struggles in man coverage, often losing receivers when they run complicated routes.  Carter can also be lazy on inside releases, allowing the receiver to get separation from him.

Carter does need a lot of work but can be successful in the right system on the right team.

The Detroit Lions could select him between the third and fifth round, but wouldn’t be the best option for them.  Personally, if the decision was between Rollins and Carter, Rollins would be the better choice just for the fact he has raw talent and athleticism that could develop into a starter in this league.

Carter still wouldn’t be a bad option and if the previous prospects aren’t available. expect the Lions to take a long look at Carter in mid rounds of this years draft.

Next: The Dream Pick