2011 NFL Draft Results: Patrick Peterson Picked By Arizona Cardinals

No matter where Peterson plays with Arizona, he has the ability to be explosive. As a cornerback, his ability is off the charts, but he may make an immediate impact on special teams, as well. Peterson is prolific in the return game, and his all-around skills were too enticing for Arizona to pass-up.

Patrick Peterson was a fantastic cover corner for LSU during his three years in Baton Rouge, but his greatest asset might have been his skill as a playmaker. Peterson snagged seven interceptions for the Tigers and changes games as a junior with his punt and kick returns, averaging nearly 10 yards per punt return and scoring two touchdowns and racking up nearly 30 yards per kickoff runback. That’s the foundation for why many believe Peterson is the best player in the 2011 NFL Draft class.

Peterson also has great size for a cornerback, especially one with his quickness and speed, which is why And The Valley Shook loves his pro potential. And he’s an easy guy to like, too: an interview with Colts blog Stampede Blue demonstrates more than a little of the brightness that makes him an interesting player when in front of a microphone.

There are more than a few Patrick Peterson highlight reels on YouTube, and there’s a really good Sport Science clip on his reaction speed, if you can get past the Sport Scienceness of it, but there’s none with better production values than this compilation of Peterson’s exploits.

For more on Peterson’s new team, head on over to Revenge of the Birds.

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