CB Xavier Rhodes NFL Draft Scouting Report

Xavier Rhodes Scouting Report

Measureables:

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 210

Arm length: 33 3/4”

Hand: 9”

40 Time: 4.43

Pros:

• Good in press coverage, capable of locking down outside receivers.
• Flashes quickness to cover down in the slot
• Very strong blitzer capable of making plays in the backfield
• Has big play ability that will make opposing QB’s pay for their mistakes
• Impressive size and length, as well as long speed
• Has solid ball skills
• Takes good angles and is strong against the run.
• Has the ability to be a good safety at the next level

Cons:

• Is usually too physical with receivers, was the culprit of a number of penalties or close calls
• Technique is poor, got away to often by facing lesser competition
• Hasn’t played much zone or off man coverages and doesn’t appear as natural there
• Will give up too many easy catches
• Doesn’t wrap up enough and will try to deliver a big hit, won’t always be able to rely on that at the next level

Overall:

Rhodes is one higher touted corners in the country and considered by many to be a top 20 pick (if not higher). While he definitely has the potential to be worthy of that draft slot, he also comes with a good bit of risk. His technique is fairly lazy, and could limit his effectiveness at the next level (particularly early on). Rhodes also has to play with more control, because if he plays like he did in college he will be the most penalized corner in the league (by quite a bit) every year. Rhodes is also pretty scheme specific as he needs to go to a defense that will allow him to play a lot of press man coverage. If Rhodes does get into the right system and cleans up his technique and play, he has the natural ability and instincts to become a very good corner, but there are quite a few risks. Though he will still likely go in the 1^st round, he profiles more for me as a second rounder.