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2017 NFL Draft: West Virginia Rasul Douglas Scouting Report

By Jon Dove

Oct 1, 2016; Morgantown, WV, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers cornerback Rasul Douglas (13) reacts after making a tackle during the first quarter against the Kansas State Wildcats at Milan Puskar Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ben Queen-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2016; Morgantown, WV, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers cornerback Rasul Douglas (13) reacts after making a tackle during the first quarter against the Kansas State Wildcats at Milan Puskar Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ben Queen-USA TODAY Sports /
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West Virginia’s Rasul Douglas is a big-bodied cornerback prospect who has a knack for getting his hands on the football.

Rasul Douglas is an aggressive defender who is always attacking the football. If he can’t get his hands on the ball he looks to dislodge it from the ball carrier’s hands. Douglas’ playing style is something that all defensive coordinators will love.

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In coverage, he’s at his best when he can read the quarterback and break on the routes. He has great balance in his back pedal which allows him to easily click and close on the ball. The fact that he closes with authority means that there’s limited yards after the catch opportunities.

Douglas can do play some man coverage, but will get flat footed and grabby as the receiver approaches. He also doesn’t possess the elite speed needed to turn and run with the speedsters in the NFL. Douglas’ size hurts his change of direction ability which hurts his ability to stick with shiftier targets.

The NFL covets bigger cornerbacks to match up with the bigger targets in the league. Douglas fits that mold based on his size and toughness. He also features excellent awareness that helps him get in proper position.

His ball skills make him a threat to pull down interceptions and also create forced fumbles. Douglas may have some scheme limitations but he has the talent needed to be an effective starter in the NFL.

He’d improve his man coverage skills if keeps his hands to himself and on his toes. The upside is here for a No. 1 cornerback capable of getting his hands on the ball. He strikes me as a perfect fit for the Seattle Seahawks system.

Draft Range: Early 3rd Round

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