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2017 NFL Draft: Houston Howard Wilson Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Sep 3, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Cougars cornerback Howard Wilson (6) reacts after recovering a fumble against the Oklahoma Sooners in the second half at NRG Stadium. Houston Cougars won 33 to 23. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Cougars cornerback Howard Wilson (6) reacts after recovering a fumble against the Oklahoma Sooners in the second half at NRG Stadium. Houston Cougars won 33 to 23. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Houston’s Howard Wilson is a ball-hawking cornerback prospect who deserves more hype than he’s currently receiving.

Howard Wilson is an extremely aggressive defender who gets his hands on a lot of footballs. His combination of a quick short-area burst and ability to read the quarterback is why he’s able to make such an impact.

Wilson doesn’t hesitate to trust his reads which includes jumping wide receiver screens and routes to the sideline. He also has the ability to highpoint the football by properly timing his jumps. However, Wilson only has average height and won’t always win those jump-ball situations.

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He features excellent balance in his backpedal which helps him easily click and close on the football. Wilson has solid top-end speed, but isn’t someone who will jump out as a burner. His quickness comes in his short-area burst which is equally as important for a cornerback.

He shows fluid hips which allow him to easily change direction and keep in-phase with his target.

Wilson’s aggressiveness as a defender extends to his run support. Wilson loves to get involved in the run game by darting into the backfield. His strength as a tackler also shows up in coverage where he routinely limits yards after the catch.

One concern is the fact that Wilson missed all of 2015 with an ACL injury. This took important snaps away from him and hurt his overall on-field experience.

Wilson is the type of defender NFL coaches will love. He plays with tenacity by supporting the run and attacking the football. His ball skills and ability to create turnovers are what every NFL coach is looking for in a defensive back.

Current Draft Range: 2nd Round

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