2015 NFL Draft Prospects: The Top-10 Most Pro Ready

Nov 29, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Michigan State Spartans cornerback Trae Waynes (15) intercepts a pass intended for Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Chris Godwin (12) in the second quarter at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

No. 9: Trae Waynes

Trae Waynes showed out at the 2015 Scouting Combine to let the Nation know who he is. He’s one of the most athletic corners to come into the NFL in quite some time now. But it’s not just about his athleticism, it’s about his skills as he uses both to put himself in the position he’s in to get drafted.

Impact and Production

Waynes played in 36 games over three seasons with Michigan State Spartans, starting 27. He made first-team All-Big Ten in 2014 and was a semifinalist for the Thorpe Award (top defensive back). Waynes had three interceptions and eight pass breakups and finished sixth on the team with 46 tackles in 2014.

Ability

Waynes was the fastest corner at the NFL Scouting Combine with a 4.31 and I haven’t seen a time by a corner that fast since. He also showed some strength at the combine with 19 reps of 225 pounds and some hops with a 38-inch vertical leap. To go with the recovery speed and hops, Waynes is 6’0″, 186 pounds and has good length with 31-inch arms.

Understanding

He’s at his best in deep, man coverage, using his body and length to gain inside leverage to keep receivers from getting comfortable. Waynes is confident is his technique and doesn’t try to change things when beaten. And he’s well-coached to maintain proper technique in coverage while he uses his speed and length get a hand on the ball.

Next: No. 8