Don’t forget about Asante Samuel Jr. in 2021 NFL Draft CB class
By Hunter Neel
Often overlooked due to the turmoil the Florida State program is in is cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. Yes, as in son of 11-year, four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel. Chasing in his fathers footsteps, Samuel Jr. looks to carry on the family business, which is of course being a shutdown cornerback in the NFL. There are some challenges he will face along the way but Samuel should not be forgotten about in this year’s deep 2021 NFL Draft cornerback class.
A three year starter for the Seminoles, Samuel was given 2020 First-team All-ACC honors for his play this past season. During his time at Florida State, he recorded 97 tackles, three for a loss, four interceptions, and 29 passes defended. He also only allowed 178 yards receiving in eight 2020 games.
Where does he stand in this year’s 2021 NFL Draft crop of CBs?
This year’s cornerback class has a lot of names that will draw buzz and get first round consideration. While Samuel might not get that high, he has a strong case to be made as an early second round player. His stock may ultimately vary depending on how the rest of the class shapes out, but in a deep cornerback class Samuel is a guy often overlooked and uncounted for.
His size will lead to some questions over where he projects to best, but with the mentality and physicality Samuel brings to the table, he has the makings of a premier outside corner in the league. While he is not in the same conversation as the likes of Caleb Farley or Patrick Surtain II, Samuel is still fantastic in his own regard.
The production is there, the NFL lineage is there, now does Samuel have the traits to match this and excel in the league similar to how his father did?