NFL Draft: Top five Cornerback prospects for the Detroit Lions
Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State
Feb 23, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive back Trae Waynes catches a pass in a work out drill during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Deemed the best corner in this years draft, Waynes is a good corner that knows how to play. Playing under a Mark Dantonio and Pat Narduzzi defense, he knows how to cover any type of receiver and can run with the faster wideouts.
Waynes is also plays man to man defense well, being able to play on an island against the best wide receiver on the opposing offense. He also stays physical with the opposition and isn’t afraid to tackle somebody, as proven by his 6-0, 186 pound frame.
Live Feed
The Viking Age
He also had one of the best performances at the NFL Combine this year for cornerbacks, leading in the bench press (19 reps) and 40 yard dash (4.31).
However, Waynes does have some flaws. He was very hands on in coverage in college, which won’t work in a NFL that calls a penalty if you touch the receiver with a finger. Thus, he needs to translate his game so that he won’t draw as many penalties.
Even though he can play with faster receivers, he often has trouble with receivers who have quickness, often allowing them to gain separation.
Still, Waynes is the premier cornerback in the 2015 draft class and is a sure NFL starter.
He would be a good fit in the Motor City, as his physicality is what the Lions teach and love. Waynes also would need a little bit to learn Teryl Austin’s defensive system but could learn it quicker then most people, due to the fact he played under a defensive mastermind in East Lansing in Narduzzi.
If Waynes falls to the Lions at 23, they should draft him and have fill the void that will soon be left by Rashean Mathis.
Do you think the Detroit Lions should target a cornerback early in the draft? Did somebody you want the Lions to get isn’t on this list? Share your opinion in the comment section or argue with me on Twitter @JLeBlanc_21