With The First Pick
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2016 NFL Draft: early look at Florida State’s Jalen Ramsey

By Jon Dove

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Florida State’s Jalen Ramsey is a superb athlete who possesses great length and size for a defensive back. He has the speed to turn and run with the receiver as well as close on the ball. Florida State has used him all over the field including safety and cornerback.

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Ramsey’s overall development might have been a little slowed because of the multiple roles he was asked to fill. His transition to cornerback has featured growing pains and mistakes. There’s no doubting Ramsey’s talent but his feel for the position and technique need work.

This clip is a look at Ramsey failing to get his head turned around to locate the football:

He is often stuck with his back to the ball when asked to play man coverage. This isn’t an ideal position because it limits his ability to make a play on the ball and makes him vulnerable to pass interference penalties.

Ramsey’s length can be an asset and a liability at times. This clip is an example of why some scouts worry about long-legged cornerbacks. They tend to struggle flipping their hips and sticking with those receivers with strong route-running ability.

It’s going to take time for a NFL secondary coach to work with Ramsey to improve his technique. Until he refines his craft, he would be better suited playing in a zone system where he can uses his short-area burst and size to his advantage.

Ramsey will continue to get a ton of looks by scouts because of his raw ability. However, some may question his tenacity and willingness to support the run. He has a tendency to allow himself to get blocked or hesitate just long enough to take himself out of a play.

Again, the talent is undeniable but it takes more than that to excel in the NFL. I have a hard time watching Ramsey’s play and seeing a top-10 prospect.

Current Draft Position: 2nd Round

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