Scouting report: Jairus Byrd

6’0, 205 pounds | Oregon | Cornerback
Strengths: The first thing you notice about Byrd is his good size for the position. Few cornerbacks can match is size and athleticism. Strong enough to jam receivers at the line when playing man with over coverage. Also uses his strength to re-direct a receiver’s route and not get called for a penalty. Very good hands. Finished his career with 17 interceptions, one shy of the Oregon school record. Solid bltizer, even though he wasn’t asked to that a lot while at Oregon. Works through trash nicely which is utilizes against the run. Also returns punts.
Weaknesses: Doesn’t have great deep speed and struggles some against quick and agile receivers. Not great recovery speed and will get in trouble when his jam doesn’t work.Will get in trouble at the next level if he is asked to matchup against receivers similar to Eddie Royal of the Broncos and DeSean Jackson of the Eagles. Overshadowed at times by teammate Walter Thurmond III who is a true man cover corner. Byrd’s skill set might make him a better fit for a cover-2 scheme. Average tackler. Byrd needs to become more aggressive in his hitting. Against running backs and tight ends, Byrd too often is merely a help blocker.
Final word: One of the final early entrant into the draft, Byrd surprised many by leaving Oregon. Lining up opposite Walter Thurmond III, Byrd helped form one of the more talented cornerback duos in the nation. Byrd had a very productive career in which he started 37 consecutive games.
Round projection: 3