Overshadowed by top 10 draft pick Joe Haden in 2009, Florida cornerback Janoris Jenkins is shining bright in 2010.
There has arguably been no better cornerback in the nation this season than Jenkins. It's not Prince Amukamara of Nebraska, Ras-I Dowling of Virginia or Brandon Harris of Miami (Fla.).
Against Miami of Ohio and South Florida this season, Jenkins was a disruptive force. Matched up against the opposing team's best receivers, the junior has shown that he can be a shutdown cornerback. In two games, Jenkins has already broken up four passes and intercepted two.
But that's what is expected of Jenkins. He's proven to be much, much more.
Top NFL Draft cornerback prospect? Looks like Janoris Jenkins
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Florida has also used Jenkins on blitz packages. He already has two tackles for a loss this season and a sack. By year’s end, he should have numbers that are unique for a cornerback.
Jenkins is back to playing the boundary cornerback position, locking down the short side of the field. This has allowed Florida’s safeties more chances to work near the line of scrimmage and help on the field side.
As a prospect, you have to look hard to find flaws in Jenkins. His backpedal is better than most and he quickly flips his hips to run with receivers. He doesn’t give up a lot of ground, but when he does he has a good closing burst. Gets a nice break on the ball when it comes out of the quarterback’s hand.
At this rate, it might be wise for Jenkins to come out following his true junior season. Should he choose that path, he’s almost certainly a first-round pick.
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