2016 NFL Draft Big Board: December Update
By Jon Dove
Nov 7, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Vernon Hargreaves III (1) during the first quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
7. Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
Florida’s Vernon Hargreaves III is the premier cornerback eligible for the 2016 NFL Draft. He’s different from what we’ve seen NFL teams covet at the position the past couple of years. Hargreaves does have the size that has been a priority for the cornerback spot recently. However, this is an elite player with a chance to be a major difference maker.
What Hargreaves lacks in size he makes up for with instincts, savvy and ball skills. He’s a really smart player who knows how to recognize developing routes and read the quarterback. Hargreaves is always in strong position to make a play on the football.
His ball skills are the key to his value as he’s a major threat to pull down interceptions. He uses his instincts to get a jump on the pass and use his elite hands to generate the turnover. NFL teams may want cornerbacks with size, but they value the ability to produce takeaways more.
The Baltimore Ravens will be on the lookout for a cornerback this offseason and could be in position to grab Hargreaves. This would be a nice fit because the Ravens already have Jimmy Smith on the roster who can handle the bigger and more physical receivers.
Next: No. 8 Ezekiel Elliott