2014 NFL Draft cornerback rankings

If teams start copying the Seattle Seahawks way with big cornerbacks, our top cover man could find himself in trouble on draft weekend. That would be TCU’s Jason Verrett, who is neither tall or overly physical. As important as those traits are, instincts and the ability to make plays trumps them. That’s where Verrett excels. He plays a lot like Brandon Flowers did when he was at his best for the Kansas City Chiefs.

What Verrett has in instincts and playmaking ability, Darqueze Dennard of Michigan State has in physicality and the ability to play press coverage. Dennard likes to reroute receivers and shows good burst to make a play on the ball at the last second.

Bradley Roby of Ohio State and Justin Gilbert of Oklahoma State may be the draft’s two most talented cornerbacks, but both have flaws in their play. Kyle Fuller and Antone Exum of Virginia Tech would rate higher if there weren’t questions about injuries with both players.

If teams are going for the Seahawks-style cornerbacks – those that are big, physical and can play man – players like Utah’s Keith McGills, Nebraska’s Stanley Jean-Baptiste and even Lindenwood’s Pierre Desire could get overdrafted in May.

Overall, the cornerback class in the 2014 NFL Draft is excellent. In fact, it may be the best group this year. Of course there will be some late-round standouts, but it’s conceivable that several starters will be found after the first two rounds.