2018 NFL Draft: Plenty of Slot Cornerbacks Available

The slot cornerback position has become extremely important and the 2018 NFL Draft has several talented prospects.

We are going to see plenty of 2018 NFL Draft cornerback prospects selected with the intention of them playing mainly in the slot. The NFL  has morphed into a league where it’s nearly impossible to survive with two cornerbacks on the field.

Offenses are employing exotic alignments that puts tons of pressure on the defense. This has resulted in extra defensive backs seeing more action.

The Denver Broncos proved the past few years that having 3 high-end cornerbacks is a real asset. We should expect that trend to continue.

Below are some of the more talented slot cornerbacks available in this year’s draft:

Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama

Fitzpatrick is expected to hear his name called early in the 1st round. He’s a versatile defender with experience working on the outside, in the slot and at safety. His best fit at the next level will be as a chess-piece type player.

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However, it wouldn’t come as a shock if he spent a lot of time in the slot. He has the movement skills and balance needed to keep in phase with the shiftier wide receivers. Fitzpatrick is also a sound tackler and effective blitzer.

Anthony Averett, Alabama

Averett lacks the size and bulk most defensive coaches look for in an outside cornerback. However, his build lends itself to fulfilling a slot role. Averett is another balanced athlete who can quickly change direction.

He has no problem keeping pace with quicker receivers and working through traffic.

D.J. Reed, Kansas State

Reed is a hard-nosed player who won’t shy away from contact. However, he also has quick-twitch ability and the suddenness to limit separation. His best fit might be in the slot, but he also has the potential to work on the outside.

Duke Dawson, Florida

Dawson’s hip fluidity helps him change direction and keep close to his target. He also features the speed to keep pace and the short-area burst to click and close on the football.