Devon Witherspoon 2023 NFL Draft Profile
If you read my cornerback rankings then you know that he’s my CB 16. The draft politics hit hard this time of year and nobody has benefitted more than Devon Witherspoon. Let’s talk about it an go over the 2023 NFL Draft profile for the Illinois cornerback.
Witherspoon didn’t test at the Combine. He then chickened out on the Pro Day after saying he would work out. Then he had his own private workout where we got all these mysteries hand times to tell you he’s fast. It reeks and the smart people know it.
The Illini product is also really undersized. The list of game wrecking corners at 180 pounds doesn’t exist. It’s Jaire Alexander and end of list. Short arms and small hands. He’s not jabbing receivers like he did in college with that stature. It’s just not happening. Allowed completion rate of just 34.9% in 2022 but that happened in the Big 10 without Ohio State on the schedule. Trust me, a real receiver like Marv smurfs him. It’s the worst passing Conference in America which should be kept in mind.
I don’t think the guy is completely terrible. I just think he’s a third rounder and that should be viewed okay. It would also be insane to take him ahead of that group of three that is Joey Porter Jr, Christian Gonzalez, and Kelee Ringo. All of which are bigger, faster, stronger, longer, and more talented. Not sure how it’s arguable.
I see a lot of biting on double moves. Takes bad angles. Not a terrible tackler and has some big hits. Think his real play speed is probably high 4.5 range. Coming downhill and making a big hit in run support is probably his best attribute. If that gets you hot and bothered, knock yourself out. It’s still not good enough to be a top ten pick.
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