Eagles mock Draft: Philadelphia finds 3 impact starters early

TALLAHASSEE, FL - SEPTEMBER 5: Safety Kyle Hamilton #14 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during warm-ups before the start of the game against the Florida State Seminoles at Doak Campbell Stadium on Bobby Bowden Field on September 5, 2021 in Tallahassee, Florida. The Fighting Irish defeated the Seminoles 41 to 38 OT. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images)
TALLAHASSEE, FL - SEPTEMBER 5: Safety Kyle Hamilton #14 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during warm-ups before the start of the game against the Florida State Seminoles at Doak Campbell Stadium on Bobby Bowden Field on September 5, 2021 in Tallahassee, Florida. The Fighting Irish defeated the Seminoles 41 to 38 OT. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /
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UTSA Roadrunners cornerback Tariq Woolen (20). Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

Eagles pick 101: Tariq Woolen, Cornerback UTSA

UTSA’s Tariq Woolen could arguably be the most interesting player in this year’s draft. After entering college as a wide receiver, Woolen was switched to cornerback mid-season in 2019. Woolen struggled with catching the ball, resulting in him being moved to defense.

Woolen has spent just two full seasons learning the cornerback position. In this short time, he has shown legitimate strides at the position. Over his final two seasons, he appeared in 20 games. When playing, he recorded 60 tackles, five tackles for loss, 11 pass breakups, and two interceptions. It is also worth noting that Woolen was called for pass interference just twice, which is impressive for a player so new to the position.

Woolen has a skillset that could lead to him being a lockdown corner in the NFL. He comes in at 6-4 and 205 pounds. He has the strength to keep opposing receivers in check and can keep up with whoever he lines up against. He also has elite speed, having run a 4.26 40-yard dash at the NFL combine.

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From a physical standpoint, Woolen checks all the boxes. He will be one of the most athletic players in the NFL. If he can become better at the cornerback position, he can become a star.