Stephon Gilmore 2012 NFL Draft scouting report

Ball skills: Gilmore displays good anticipation to break on the ball at the last moment. Gets after the ball when tackling. Finished his career with eight interceptions, four forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. Has lined up as a punt returner and quarterback in Wildcat formations.

Man coverage: South Carolina plays in a lot of zone coverage, so Gilmore doesn’t have a lot of good bump and run experience. Is a smooth, fluid athlete who can flip his hips open to turn and run with the wide receiver. Plays more off-man coverage and will need to get stronger to make it in tight bump and run.

Size: Gilmore has a tall frame with long arms, which should help him if an NFL team asks him to press more than he did in college. Has a frame that should be able to hold more weight.

Tackling: Should develop into a solid tackler for a cornerback. Has decent strength. Isn’t a technical tackler. Often either goes for a big hit lowering his shoulder or dives at the ankles. Has a hard time getting off blocks by wide receivers.

Zone coverage: Will enter the NFL with advanced knowledge and experience in a zone scheme. Has some trouble recovering when he’s beaten over the top. Helped make the calls in the secondary. Displays quick feet to change direction. Closes in a hurry.

Final word: Over the past three seasons at South Carolina, Gilmore started 40 games and finished his career with eight interceptions. South Carolina runs mainly a zone scheme, but typically has five players who can be designated as defensive backs. Because of that, Gilmore has experience in a few spots in the secondary and played some at a hybrid safety/cornerback spot. He should be best in the NFL in a zone scheme, but has the size and athleticism to become a good press corner in time.